Best University to Study Anatomy in Nigeria: Anatomy is the scientific study of the structure and organization of living organisms. It is a branch of biology that deals with the morphology, development, and function of the human body and its parts. Anatomy is a vital subject for anyone who wants to pursue a career in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, physiotherapy, nursing, or any other health-related field.
If you are interested in studying anatomy in Nigeria, you may be wondering which university is the best for you. In this article, we will help you make an informed decision by providing you with a list of the best universities to study anatomy in Nigeria.
Aspect of Anatomy
Gross Anatomy
This field involves the examination of the body’s structures on a macroscopic level, such as bones, cartilage, nerves, and other tangible components.
Histology
On the other end of the spectrum, histology invites us into the microscopic universe of human body cells and tissues. Here, we explore the minute intricacies that underlie the grand tapestry of our physiology.
Subject Combination for Human Anatomy
To embark on this enthralling journey, there are specific subjects you must master in your O’level exams (WAEC or NECO) and JAMB to gain admission into the institution of your choice.
JAMB Subject Combination for Human Anatomy:
- Use of English
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
WAEC Subject Combination for Human Anatomy:
- Mathematics
- English Language
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Biology
Requirements to Study Anatomy in Nigeria
JAMB and WAEC Requirements to Study Anatomy in Nigeria
To study anatomy in Nigeria, you need to meet some academic and personal requirements. These include:
- You must have at least five credits in your O’level exams (WAEC or NECO), including English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
- You must have a good score in your UTME (Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination), which is conducted by JAMB (Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board). The UTME subjects for anatomy are English Language, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
- You must have a good score in your post-UTME (Post-Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination), which is conducted by the university of your choice. The post-UTME is usually a computer-based test that assesses your aptitude and knowledge of the UTME subjects.
Direct Entry Requirements for Human Anatomy
- Two (2) ‘A’ Level passes, with one in Zoology, Biology, Physics, or Chemistry.
- Five (5) O’Level credits in English Language, Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics, and Biology.
- A degree in any biological sciences or equivalent qualifications may be considered for entry into the second year of the program.
Best University to Study Anatomy in Nigeria
Nigeria boasts a multitude of reputable institutions offering the study of Human Anatomy. Here is a curated list of some of the best universities in the country that provide this captivating course:
Federal Universities Offering Anatomy in Nigeria
- University of Nigeria, located in Nsukka, Enugu State
- Ahmadu Bello University, situated in Zaria, Kaduna State
- Bayero University Kano (BUK) – Kano State
- University of Benin (UNIBEN) – Edo State
- Federal University, Birnin Kebbi – Kebbi State
- Federal University Oye Ekiti (FUOYE) – Ekiti State
- Federal University of Lafia (FULafia) – Nasarawa State
- Alex Ekwueme Federal University, situated in Ebonyi State at Ndufu-Alike
- University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) – Kwara State
- University of Jos (UNIJOS) – Plateau
- University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) – Borno State
- Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) – Anambra State
- Federal University Dutse – Jigawa State
- Federal University Wukari – Taraba State
- Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA) is situated within the boundaries of Ondo State
- University of Uyo (UNIUYO) – Akwa Ibom
State Universities Offering Anatomy in Nigeria
- Ambrose Alli University (AAU) – Edo State
- Abia State University (ABSU) – Abia State
- Benue State University – Benue State
- Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU) – Anambra State
- Delta State University (DELSU) – Delta State
- Ebonyi State University (EBSU) – Ebonyi State
- Ekiti State University (EKSU) – Ekiti State
- Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) – Enugu State
- Gombe State University (GSU) – Gombe State
- Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) – Oyo State
- Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) – Ogun State
- University of Medical Sciences, Ondo – Ondo State
- Yobe State University (YSU) – Yobe State
- Rivers State University (RSU) – Rivers State
- Osun State University (UNIOSUN) – Osun State
- Bauchi State University Gadau – Bauchi State
- Bayelsa Medical University – Bayelsa State
- Cross River University of Technology – Cross River
- Kogi State University (KSU) – Kogi State
- Niger Delta University (NDU) – Bayelsa State
Private Universities Offering Anatomy in Nigeria
- Afe Babalola University – Ekiti State
- Achievers University – Ondo State
- Babcock University – Ogun State
- Bingham University – Abuja
- Bowen University – Osun State
- Chrisland University – Ogun State
- Eko University of Medical and Health Sciences – Lagos State
- Edo University, Iyamho – Edo State
- Gregory University – Abia State
- Igbinedion University – Edo State
- Lead City University – Oyo State
- Madonna University Nigeria – Rivers State
- Yusuf Maitama Sule University Kano – Kano State
- NOK University Kachia – Kaduna State
- Novena University – Delta State
- Pamo University Of Medical Sciences – Ebonyi State
- Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin, Nigeria – Kwara State
- Arthur Jarvis University – Cross River
- Adeleke University – Osun State
- Baze University – Abuja
- Nile University of Nigeria – Abuja
- Redeemer’s University Ede – Osun State
- Rhema University – Abia State
Duration to Study Anatomy in Nigeria?
The duration of studying anatomy in Nigeria depends on the mode of entry and the degree level. There are two modes of entry: direct entry and regular entry.
- Direct entry: This is for candidates who have a diploma or an advanced level certificate (such as IJMB or NCE) in a relevant field. They can apply for admission into the second year (200 level) of the four-year bachelor’s degree program in anatomy.
- Regular entry: This is for candidates who have only an O’level certificate. They can apply for admission into the first year (100 level) of the four-year bachelor’s degree program in anatomy.
The bachelor’s degree program in anatomy consists of eight semesters (four academic sessions), each lasting about four months. The curriculum covers both theoretical and practical aspects of anatomy, such as gross anatomy, histology, embryology, neuroanatomy, genetics, physiology, biochemistry, pathology, pharmacology, and research methods.
After completing the bachelor’s degree program in anatomy, graduates can proceed to pursue a master’s degree or a doctorate degree in anatomy or related fields. The master’s degree program takes about two years to complete, while the doctorate degree program takes about three to five years to complete.
Job Opportunities for Anatomy Graduates in Nigeria
Anatomy graduates have a wide range of career opportunities in Nigeria and abroad. They can work as:
- Lecturers or researchers in universities or research institutes
- Medical doctors or dentists after further studies
- Medical laboratory scientists or technicians
- Medical illustrators or animators
- Forensic scientists or pathologists
- Biomedical engineers or biotechnologists
- Pharmaceutical scientists or drug developers
- Public health officers or epidemiologists
- Health educators or counselors
Anatomy graduates can also pursue further studies in specialized fields such as neuroanatomy, cardiovascular anatomy, reproductive anatomy, developmental anatomy, molecular anatomy, comparative anatomy, clinical anatomy, or radiological anatomy.
Courses Under Human Anatomy
The captivating world of Human Anatomy unfolds through a series of meticulously crafted courses:
- Foundational Courses
- Embryology
- Histology
- Histochemistry & Laboratory
- Clinical/Applied Anatomy
- Molecular Biology
- Research Methods
- Project
Frequently Asked Questions on Anatomy
Let’s address some common queries that may arise on this journey:
What is the cut-off mark for Anatomy?
The cut-off mark for Anatomy varies by university, with State Universities generally having lower thresholds than Federal Universities.
What is the duration of the human anatomy study program in Nigeria?
Studying human anatomy in Nigerian universities is a four-year endeavor, followed by a year dedicated to the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC)
Is an anatomist a medical doctor?
An anatomist is not a Medical Doctor, but it’s worth noting that some physicians specialize in morbid anatomy and reproductive health.
What Faculty is human anatomy?
Human Anatomy typically falls under the Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences within the College of Medicine in Nigerian Universities.
What is the JAMB subject combination for anatomy?
To pursue a career in Anatomy, the JAMB subject combination consists of English, Physics, Biology, and Chemistry.
What is the anatomy salary in Nigeria?
The salary for an anatomist in Nigeria can range from eighty to three hundred and fifty thousand Naira (₦80,000 – ₦350,000), depending on various factors.