Pursuing a Master’s degree in Nigeria is a significant step for professionals looking to advance their careers and deepen their expertise. However, the cost of postgraduate education can be a major concern.
If you’re looking for affordable universities that offer quality Master’s programs, this comprehensive guide provides detailed insights into some of the cheapest universities for a Master’s degree in Nigeria, their tuition fees, and other essential details to help you make an informed decision.
Overview of Master’s Degree Costs in Nigeria
Master’s degree programs in Nigeria vary in cost depending on the university, program, and whether the institution is private or public. Generally, federal and state universities offer more affordable tuition than private institutions.
- Estimated Tuition Range: The average cost of a Master’s degree in Nigeria ranges from ₦70,000 to ₦300,000 per session in public universities, while private universities charge anywhere between ₦100,000 and ₦2,000,000 per session.
- Program Duration: Most Master’s programs last between 1 to 2 years, depending on the university and field of study.
- Additional Costs: Besides tuition fees, students should budget for accommodation, research materials, and administrative fees.
Cheapest Universities for a Master’s Degree in Nigeria
1. University of Ibadan (UI)
- Tuition Fees: ₦34,300 – ₦36,800 per session
- Overview: UI is Nigeria’s premier university and offers a wide range of postgraduate programs at some of the most affordable rates in the country.
- Popular Courses: Nursing, Public Health, Business Administration, Engineering
2. University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- Tuition Fees: ₦15,500 – ₦55,500 per session
- Overview: Located in Lagos, UNILAG is one of the most prestigious federal universities offering cost-effective Master’s programs.
- Popular Courses: Law, Mass Communication, Engineering, Social Sciences
3. Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA)
- Tuition Fees: ₦18,900 – ₦52,100 per session
- Overview: FUTA is a top choice for students interested in technology and science-related Master’s degrees at an affordable price.
- Popular Courses: Computer Science, Agricultural Science, Environmental Technology
4. Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS)
- Tuition Fees: ₦120,000 – ₦137,000 per session
- Overview: Known for its affordable tuition, UDUS is one of the best options for Master’s students in Northern Nigeria.
- Popular Courses: Medicine, Public Administration, Islamic Studies
5. Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike (FUNAI)
- Tuition Fees: ₦104,000 – ₦154,000 per session
- Overview: FUNAI is a rapidly growing institution that offers affordable postgraduate programs in various disciplines.
- Popular Courses: Economics, Political Science, Biochemistry
6. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- Tuition Fees: ₦151,500 – ₦159,000 per session
- Overview: OAU is well known for its rigorous academic structure and relatively low tuition fees compared to other top universities.
- Popular Courses: Humanities, Education, Sciences
7. McPherson University (Private University)
- Tuition Fees: ₦70,000 – ₦85,000 per session
- Overview: One of the most affordable private universities in Nigeria, McPherson University provides quality education at a lower cost than many other private institutions.
- Popular Courses: Business Administration, Religious Studies, Computer Science
8. Oduduwa University (Private University)
- Tuition Fees: Starting from ₦100,000 per session
- Overview: Oduduwa University offers a range of affordable postgraduate programs, especially for students looking for alternatives to federal universities.
- Popular Courses: Accounting, Political Science, Computer Science
9. Al-Hikmah University (Private University)
- Tuition Fees: ₦98,000 per session
- Overview: A faith-based institution known for its academic excellence and cost-effective tuition for Master’s programs.
- Popular Courses: Islamic Studies, Law, Mass Communication
10. Summit University, Offa (Private University)
- Tuition Fees: Varies (Contact university for details)
- Overview: Established by the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria, Summit University provides affordable education with strong moral and academic values.
- Popular Courses: Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, Business Administration
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Affordable University
While cost is a major factor, it’s also important to evaluate other aspects before selecting a university for your Master’s degree:
- Accreditation – Ensure the university and program are accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC).
- Program Quality – Consider the faculty expertise, research opportunities, and curriculum strength.
- Location & Cost of Living – Studying in cities like Lagos and Abuja may involve higher living expenses compared to other locations.
- Scholarship & Financial Aid – Some universities offer scholarships or installment payment options to ease the financial burden.
- Alumni Success Rate – Research the employment success of graduates from the program you’re interested in.
Related: Free Online Master’s Degree in Nigeria: Opportunities and Alternatives
Wrapping
Nigeria has several universities that offer affordable and high-quality Master’s degree programs. Whether you prefer a federal, state, or private university, there are cost-effective options to suit different budgets. Federal universities like UI, UNILAG, and FUTA provide some of the cheapest tuition rates, while private universities like McPherson and Al-Hikmah offer affordable alternatives with flexible payment structures.
Before making your final decision, consider tuition fees, accreditation, cost of living, and program quality to ensure you choose the best university for your academic and career goals.