Universities Offering Computer Science in Nigeria- In the past five years, computer science has become an important discipline that is increasingly changing our world. The power of computers and data has begun to permeate all aspects of life. Computer scientists are able to offer solutions that would have been unthinkable only a few decades ago, such as artificial intelligence and virtual reality. Without these new innovations, it is hard to imagine how people might be living today. Yet in spite of this progress, there’s a serious shortage of computer scientists all over the world — even in places with large populations like China and India.
Nigeria is not an exception when it comes to computer science graduates in West Africa. It is estimated that there are only 24 computer science graduates who could fill the gap. This means that Nigeria is the country with the most computer science graduates in all of West Africa, up from 17% in 2014.
The number of Nigerian Computer Science graduates has increased dramatically since 2010, showing the booming demand for workers in this field. The total number of Nigerian computer science graduates with a bachelor’s degree decreased from 69 to 50 between 2010 and 2013, but since then it has increased to 168 by 2015.
Universities Offering Computer Science in Nigeria
The list of universities offering computer science courses in Nigeria is as follows:
- University of Abuja: Department of Sciences
- Ahmadu Bello University: Department of Sciences
- Immanuel Bible University: Department of Applied Sciences
- Babcock University and more: Faculty of Sciences
- University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State University: Faculty of Sciences
- University of Ibadan: Department of Sciences
- The University of Lagos; Department of Sciences
- Obafemi Awolowo University: Department of sciences
- The University of Calabar: Faculty of Computer science
- The University of Maiduguri: Department of Sciences
- University of Uyo: faculty of Computer science
The list of universities offering computer science courses in Nigeria is as follows:
1. Ahmadu Bello University
As a university that is vast in land and population, Ahmadu Bello University offers a wide range of undergraduate degree programs in Computer Science. Computer science is a recommended degree program at Ahmadu Bello University.
As a student of computer science at Ahmadu Bello University, students get the chance to choose from different areas of specialization like: computer systems and programming, information and the internet, system analysis, web technologies, etc.
Despite the fact that computer science is one of the most popular courses at Ahmadu Bello University, it has a very large student population. As of today, the computer science department has more than 5000 students.
Since there are so many students studying and making use of the lecture rooms, laboratories, and other facilities offered at Ahmadu Bello University, the quality of education is still high despite having so many students per lecture room. This is one of the reasons why this university has remained number one in Nigeria for decades.
2. University of Nigeria, Nsukka
This university offers courses in computer science and related disciplines. It also offers programs in management and information technology.
The university offers a number of undergraduate degree programs in computer science and information technology, amongst others. With more than 40,000 students in all its undergraduate and postgraduate departments. These include computer science and information technology, mathematics, biochemistry and molecular biology, physics, chemistry, etc.
Since computer science is one of the courses taught at this university by the Department of Computer Science & Information Technology (DCI), students are guaranteed a quality education despite the large student population.
The quality of education is also ensured due to the fact that this department is always fully booked given the number of students who desire to pursue their computer science studies here at this university.
3. University of Ibadan
Computer science in the university is taught at the Department of Computer Science & Software Engineering. This department is not only one of the best in the university, but it is also one of the few departments in Nigeria that offers a number of graduate and postgraduate programs.
The department contains a number of laboratories and other facilities to help students learn by doing. It has a number of well-trained and knowledgeable teachers who are knowledgeable about computer science-related subjects.The department also has teachers who have had hands-on experience in the field, so as to make learning more interesting for students.
With the department being located at a university that has so many students, Computer Science & Software Engineering is still among the courses offered here at this university.
4. University of Calabar
The university offers computer science at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels at the School of Science and Technology.
The School of Science & Technology was founded in the year 2000 to meet the national curriculum needs for science subjects and also to provide quality information technology education at the undergraduate level. This school has a number of lecturers who are dedicated to explaining things so that students can understand them.
Besides being one of the most popular courses offered here at this university, it is also one of the most sought-after courses given its popularity amongst students who desire to study computer science.
The department also offers laboratory and workshop facilities for the students to learn by doing. These facilities ensure that students have hands-on experience before they finally get their degree certificate.
Places where a computer scientist can work in Nigeria
The following industries where a computer scientist can work in Nigeria are:
Healthcare:
In Nigeria, the top three areas that these professionals work in include healthcare, pharmaceuticals and biotechnology, and logistics.
Telecommunications:
Telecommunications is another popular industry where a computer scientist can work in Nigeria. In telecommunications companies, computer scientists are employed to design networks for the transmission of voice and data.
ICT businesses:
Companies involved with ICT businesses, such as computer hardware manufacturers, service providers of support services such as system integrators or infrastructure providers, and software companies that offer solutions such as network monitoring tools or enterprise systems integration package providers, employ these skillsets.
Food security:
In this area, computer scientists are responsible for the management of food production and distribution in order to supply various sectors of industry, such as farming and the food service industry.
Government:
The federal, state and local governments employ computer scientists in many different roles. These roles include those from the judiciary, local government bodies, security agencies, law enforcement agencies, and other government departments. In Nigeria, a high level of corruption within the government is common, which means that most positions require a security clearance so that sensitive information cannot be leaked out of the organization.
Energy:
For example, in Nigeria, power utility companies employ these professionals to design power generation systems. This is because they must ensure that their electricity supply meets international standards.
Commerce and finance:
Nigeria’s large economy makes it one of the most attractive nations for multinational companies to operate in. Local organizations may also require computer scientists who can develop software and systems to automate internal processes.
Media and entertainment:
The media industry is a growing industry in Nigeria. Media and entertainment sector companies employ computer scientists to perform research for content writing, create sites, manage consumer data, and develop applications. In the music industry, a computer scientist is involved in production as well as researching new trends and ideas often used in songwriting.
Transportation and infrastructure companies
Such as port authorities or airlines, require computer scientists to be on their staff because they are responsible for designing the necessary systems that allow efficient operation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is computer studies a JAMB subject?
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has introduced Computer Studies and Physical and Health Education as part of its UTME subjects.
Where can I work if I study computer science?
You could find yourself working in the IT department of major financial services, healthcare, manufacturing, aerospace, defense or governmental organizations.
How many years does it take to study computer science?
four years
A bachelor’s degree in computer science will typically take around four years to complete if you attend school full-time, as most programs require you to complete 120 to 128 credits.
Which is better computer science or computer engineering?
Both degrees are also exciting, especially if you choose the one that appeals to you more. If you are more into software than hardware, then computer science may serve you well. On the other hand, if hardware interests you more than software does, then computer engineering may prove to be the better choice.
How many subjects are there in computer science in 1st year?
BSc Computer Science subjects 1st year include topics like Introduction to Digital Electronics, Basics of Computer Science, Environmental Sciences, Foundation course in Mathematics, Introduction to Windows, its Features, Application, Computer Organization Principles, etc.
References
- Research.com – Computer Science vs Computer Engineering
- Legit.ng – Best University For Computer Science in Nigeria
- Nigerianscholars.com – List of Universities that offer computer science
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