Ahmadu Bello University Zaria is one of Nigeria’s most prestigious universities and offers a Master’s in Public Health (MPH) program under its Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine. This program is designed for health professionals, researchers, and policymakers who want to advance their knowledge and skills in disease prevention, health promotion, epidemiology, and healthcare management.
This post provides details on eligibility requirements, admission process, tuition fees, program structure, and career opportunities for an MPH degree at ABU Zaria.
1. Overview of the MPH Program at ABU Zaria
The Master’s in Public Health (MPH) at Ahmadu Bello University Zaria is a professional postgraduate degree aimed at equipping students with the skills to:
- Address public health challenges in Nigeria and globally.
- Conduct epidemiological research and health policy analysis.
- Improve healthcare systems and disease prevention strategies.
- Design and implement public health programs and interventions.
1.1 Program Duration
- Full-time: 12 to 24 months (one to two years).
- Part-time: Two to three years (varies depending on workload and research progress).
1.2 Mode of Study
- On-campus lectures, seminars, and fieldwork.
- Research-based projects and thesis submission.
2. Admission Requirements for MPH at ABU Zaria
To be eligible for admission into the Master’s in Public Health (MPH) program at ABU Zaria, applicants must meet the following requirements:
2.1 Academic Requirements
- A Bachelor’s degree in Medicine (MBBS, MBChB) or Dentistry (BDS) from a recognized university.
- A Bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences such as Nursing, Pharmacy, or Medical Laboratory Science with a minimum of Second Class Lower (2.2).
- Candidates with a Bachelor’s degree in Biological or Social Sciences such as Microbiology, Sociology, Biochemistry, Nutrition, or Environmental Health must first complete a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health (PGDPH) before being eligible for MPH admission.
2.2 Work Experience Requirements
- At least one year of post-qualification work experience in a relevant health-related field.
- Candidates working in hospitals, health agencies, NGOs, or government health departments have an advantage.
2.3 Other Admission Requirements
- A good academic transcript from a previous degree.
- Two letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.
- A statement of purpose explaining the applicant’s interest in public health.
3. How to Apply for MPH at ABU Zaria
The application process for the Master’s in Public Health (MPH) program at ABU Zaria follows these steps:
Step 1: Check Admission Notification
- ABU Zaria releases postgraduate admission notifications through its School of Postgraduate Studies (SPGS) portal (spgs.abu.edu.ng).
- Admission typically opens between March and August each year.
Step 2: Online Application
- Visit the ABU Zaria Postgraduate Admission Portal.
- Fill out the online application form.
- Upload required documents including certificates, transcripts, and a statement of purpose.
Step 3: Payment of Application Fee
- Pay the non-refundable application fee, which is usually between ten thousand and fifteen thousand naira.
Step 4: Screening and Entrance Examination
- Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an entrance exam or interview.
- The screening process assesses knowledge in public health and research methods.
Step 5: Admission Offer and Registration
- Successful applicants receive an admission letter.
- Register for courses and begin classes based on the university’s academic calendar.
4. Tuition Fees for MPH at ABU Zaria
The cost of studying a Master’s in Public Health (MPH) at Ahmadu Bello University Zaria is affordable compared to private universities.
Estimated Tuition Fees (Subject to change)
| Category | Estimated Tuition Fees Per Session |
|---|---|
| Nigerian Students (Full-time) | One hundred fifty thousand to two hundred fifty thousand naira |
| Nigerian Students (Part-time) | One hundred eighty thousand to three hundred thousand naira |
| International Students | Two thousand to five thousand US dollars |
Additional Fees:
- Registration and administrative fees.
- Laboratory and research fees.
- Accommodation costs for off-campus students.
For updated tuition fees, visit the ABU Postgraduate School Portal: spgs.abu.edu.ng.
5. Course Structure and Curriculum
The MPH program at ABU Zaria combines classroom learning, practical training, and research.
Core Courses
- Principles of Public Health
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics
- Health Policy and Management
- Environmental and Occupational Health
- Research Methods in Public Health
- Global Health and Infectious Diseases
Elective Courses (Depending on Specialization)
- Maternal and Child Health
- Non-Communicable Diseases and Prevention
- Health Promotion and Disease Prevention
- Public Health Nutrition
Research and Thesis
- Students must complete a public health research project and submit a thesis in their area of specialization.
6. Career Opportunities After an MPH from ABU Zaria
Graduates of the Master’s in Public Health (MPH) program at ABU Zaria can pursue career opportunities in Nigeria and globally.
Employment Sectors
- Government Health Agencies such as the Federal Ministry of Health and Nigeria Centre for Disease Control.
- Non-Governmental Organizations such as WHO, UNICEF, and Red Cross.
- Hospitals and Clinics in public health departments.
- Academic and Research Institutions as public health educators and lecturers.
- Pharmaceutical and Health Companies as health policy analysts.
- International Organizations working on global health projects.
Job Roles
- Public Health Specialist
- Epidemiologist
- Health Program Manager
- Policy Analyst
- Community Health Coordinator
Average Salary After MPH in Nigeria: Two hundred thousand to five hundred thousand naira per month, depending on the employer and experience.
7. Why Choose ABU Zaria for an MPH?
- Reputation – One of Nigeria’s top-ranked universities for medical and health sciences.
- Affordable Tuition – Lower costs compared to private universities.
- Experienced Faculty – Lecturers with international expertise in public health.
- Research Opportunities – Strong focus on epidemiological and community-based research.
- Career Growth – Graduates are well-equipped for government and international health sector jobs.
Is the MPH at ABU Zaria Right for You?
If you are passionate about improving healthcare, preventing diseases, and advancing public health policy, the Master’s in Public Health (MPH) at ABU Zaria is an excellent choice. With affordable tuition, strong career prospects, and a solid academic reputation, ABU Zaria provides the right environment for aspiring public health professionals.
For more information and application details, visit the ABU Zaria Postgraduate School Portal:
spgs.abu.edu.ng