Are you planning to study Building in any Nigerian university, one of the most important things to get right is the subject combination for Building in the 2026/2027 JAMB UTME. Every year, many candidates miss out on admission not because they did not meet the cutoff mark, but because they chose the wrong subject combination. This simple but costly mistake can be avoided if you know exactly what JAMB and your desired university require for a course in Building.
JAMB Subject Combination for Building 2026
To study Building in any Nigerian university through the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), you must sit for the following subjects in your UTME:
- English Language (Compulsory for all candidates)
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Chemistry
O’Level Requirements for Building
Along with your JAMB subjects, your O’Level (WAEC/NECO/NABTEB) results must include at least five credits in relevant subjects. These typically include:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Chemistry
- One other science-related subject (such as Technical Drawing, Geography, or Biology)
Direct Entry Requirements for Building
If you are seeking admission through Direct Entry, you can skip UTME and gain admission into 200 Level, provided you meet the following requirements:
- A’Level passes in Mathematics and Physics, and one of Chemistry, Geography or Technical Drawing.
- ND (National Diploma) or HND (Higher National Diploma) in Building, Civil Engineering, Architecture, or other related fields with at least Upper Credit.
- NCE (National Certificate in Education) with relevant combinations may also be accepted by some universities.
Duration of Study
The duration of the Building programme depends on your mode of entry:
- UTME Candidates (via JAMB): 5 years
- Direct Entry Candidates (ND, HND, or A’Levels): 4 years
During the course of your study, you will take both theoretical and practical courses, including site work, structural design, project management, building services, and construction technology.
Top Nigerian Universities to Study Building 2026
| S/N | Nigerian Universities to Study Building |
| 1 | University of Lagos (UNILAG) |
| 2 | University of Jos (UNIJOS) |
| 3 | Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) |
| 4 | Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka |
| 5 | Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA) |
| 6 | Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife |
| 7 | Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria |
| 8 | University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) |
| 9 | Bayero University Kano (BUK) |
| 10 | University of Uyo (UNIUYO) |
Frequently Asked Questions
No, Chemistry is a required subject for Building in most Nigerian universities. It plays a key role in understanding materials and environmental sciences, which are core to the course.
Yes, Building is moderately competitive, especially in top universities. A good JAMB score, correct subject combination, and strong O’Level results increase your chances of admission.
Not all schools require Technical Drawing at O’Level or A’Level, but it is often recommended or accepted as an alternative to Chemistry or Geography in some Direct Entry combinations. Always check your university’s requirements.
No. Most universities require at least a credit pass in Physics both in O’Level and in JAMB. Anything less may disqualify you from admission.
You can study Building Technology or a related course at polytechnics. After completing your ND or HND, you can apply through Direct Entry to a university for a Building degree.
Building focuses on the construction process and project management.
Architecture is more about designing the structure’s aesthetics, functionality, and spatial planning.
Both work closely in the construction industry.
