List of Universities That Accept HND for Master’s in Nigeria In 2025

In Nigeria, many universities traditionally require a Bachelor’s degree (BSc or BA) for admission into master’s programs. However, some universities accept candidates with a Higher National Diploma (HND) for postgraduate studies, either directly or through a Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) program before progressing to a master’s degree.

This blog post provides a list of Nigerian universities that accept HND for master’s programs, the requirements, and the steps HND holders can take to qualify for a master’s degree.

1. Can You Apply for a Master’s Degree with an HND in Nigeria?

Yes, some universities in Nigeria allow HND holders to apply for master’s programs, but in most cases, they are required to first complete a Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) before being eligible for a full Master of Science (MSc) or Master of Arts (MA) degree.

Some universities, especially private institutions, may directly accept HND holders for master’s programs, depending on the course and the candidate’s academic performance.

2. List of Universities That Accept HND for Master’s in Nigeria

Below is a list of Nigerian universities that accept HND holders for master’s programs, either directly or through a PGD route.

2.1 Federal Universities That Accept HND for Master’s Programs

These federal universities allow HND holders to apply for master’s programs, though most require a Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) first:

  1. University of Lagos (UNILAG) – Requires PGD before MSc.
  2. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria – HND holders must complete PGD before MSc.
  3. University of Ibadan (UI) – Accepts HND for some programs, but PGD is required for direct MSc entry.
  4. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife – Requires PGD before MSc.
  5. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) – Allows HND holders to apply for PGD before proceeding to MSc.
  6. Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA) – Accepts HND holders but requires PGD for MSc.
  7. Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO) – Requires PGD for MSc admission.
  8. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) – Some programs accept HND with a strong academic record.
  9. Modibbo Adama University of Technology (MAUTECH), Yola – HND holders must complete PGD before MSc.

2.2 State Universities That Accept HND for Master’s Programs

Many state universities allow HND holders to apply for PGD programs, leading to a master’s degree.

  1. Lagos State University (LASU) – HND holders must complete a PGD before MSc.
  2. Rivers State University (RSU) – Allows HND holders to apply for PGD before MSc.
  3. Ekiti State University (EKSU) – Accepts HND for PGD, then MSc.
  4. Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ogun State – Requires PGD for HND holders before MSc.
  5. Delta State University (DELSU) – Allows HND holders to apply for PGD before MSc.
  6. Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) – Accepts HND holders for PGD and MSc.
  7. Nasarawa State University (NSUK) – Requires HND holders to first complete PGD.
  8. Kwara State University (KWASU) – Accepts HND for PGD before MSc.

2.3 Private Universities That Accept HND for Master’s Programs

Some private universities in Nigeria offer direct admission into master’s programs for HND holders, especially those with strong professional experience.

  1. Covenant University, Ota – Accepts HND holders with a good academic record.
  2. Babcock University, Ogun State – Allows HND holders to apply for some MSc programs.
  3. Bowen University, Iwo – Offers PGD programs for HND holders before MSc.
  4. Igbinedion University, Okada – Accepts HND for master’s programs in some fields.
  5. Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD) – HND holders can apply for select MSc programs.
  6. American University of Nigeria (AUN), Yola – May consider HND holders based on experience and performance.

3. Requirements for HND Holders Applying for a Master’s in Nigeria

To apply for a master’s degree in Nigeria with an HND, students must meet the following requirements:

  1. Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) Completion – Required by most public universities before MSc admission.
  2. Minimum CGPA of 3.0 in HND – Some universities may require a higher CGPA.
  3. Relevant Work Experience – Some universities consider professional experience, especially for MBA programs.
  4. Academic Transcripts – Required for application.
  5. Statement of Purpose (SOP) – Explaining why the student wants to pursue the program.
  6. Letters of Recommendation – Typically from academic or professional referees.
  7. English Proficiency Test – Not always required, but some universities may request it.

4. How to Apply for a Master’s Degree with an HND in Nigeria

If you have an HND and wish to pursue a master’s degree in Nigeria, follow these steps:

Step 1: Research Universities and Programs

  • Check the specific requirements of the university you are interested in.
  • Determine whether you need to complete a PGD first or if direct entry is possible.

Step 2: Apply for a Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) if Required

  • Most federal and state universities require HND holders to complete a one-year PGD before progressing to MSc.
  • Private universities may allow direct admission into a master’s program in some cases.

Step 3: Prepare Application Documents

  • Academic transcripts from your polytechnic.
  • HND certificate with a minimum of Upper Credit.
  • Work experience certificates (if required).
  • Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining your academic and career goals.
  • Letters of Recommendation from lecturers or employers.

Step 4: Apply Online or Through the University’s Admission Office

  • Fill out the university’s online application form.
  • Pay the application fee (varies by institution).

Step 5: Attend Screening or Interviews (If Required)

  • Some universities require an interview or entrance exam for PGD or master’s admission.

Step 6: Receive Admission Offer and Start Your Program

  • If accepted, follow the university’s process for course registration and tuition payment.

5. Alternative Study Options for HND Holders

If you do not meet the master’s degree requirements in Nigeria, you can explore alternative options:

5.1 Study Abroad with an HND

Some international universities accept HND holders directly for master’s programs, especially in:

  • United Kingdom (UK) – Some universities accept HND + work experience for MSc entry.
  • Canada – Many universities require a PGD first before MSc.
  • Germany – HND holders can apply for Pre-Master’s programs before MSc.

5.2 Professional Certifications

Instead of a master’s degree, consider professional certifications such as:

  • Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (CIPM)
  • Project Management Professional (PMP)
  • Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

6. Can You Do a Master’s with an HND in Nigeria?

Yes, HND holders can apply for master’s degrees in Nigeria, but most universities require them to first complete a PGD before MSc admission. Some private universities and select courses may allow direct entry for students with strong academic records.

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