As the 2026/2027 Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) registration season approaches, many students are eager to get clarity on the right subject combination for Marketing. Choosing the correct subjects is not just a matter of passing JAMB but ensuring that you meet the specific requirements of your desired course at any Nigerian university. Making a mistake in your subject selection could lead to being denied admission, even if you have a high JAMB score. That is why it is important to understand the right subject combination for Marketing and how it aligns with the course requirements of various institutions.
Why Subject Combination Matters:
Incorrect subject combinations are one of the top reasons why many candidates lose out on admission every year. Even if you score high in JAMB, the university may not consider your application if your subject combination doesn’t meet the departmental criteria. To avoid such disappointments, always check the latest JAMB brochure or the specific requirements of your chosen university.
JAMB Subject Combination for Marketing 2026
The subject combination plays a crucial role in determining your eligibility. For the 2026/2027 JAMB, the correct subject combination for Marketing is as follows:
- English Language (Compulsory): This is a mandatory subject for all JAMB candidates, regardless of the course of study.
- Mathematics: Marketing requires a strong foundation in mathematical and analytical skills, especially in areas like pricing, market research, budgeting, and statistics.
- Economics: Economics provides essential insights into consumer behavior, market structures, production, and distribution — all core elements of marketing.
- Any other relevant Social Science subject: This could include subjects like Commerce, Government, or Accounting. Commerce is highly recommended, as it directly aligns with the business and marketing principles taught at the university level.
O’Level Requirements for Marketing 2026
Your O’Level (WAEC, NECO, or equivalent) results must include at least five credits in the following:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Economics
- One of: Commerce, Business Methods, Principles of Accounts
- Any other relevant subject (e.g., Government, Geography, or Statistics)
Direct Entry Requirements for Marketing
Candidates gaining admission through Direct Entry (DE) must possess any of the following:
- Two (2) A-Level passes in relevant subjects such as Economics, Business Management, Accounting, or Commerce.
- OND (Ordinary National Diploma) in Marketing, Business Administration, or any related discipline with at least a Lower Credit grade.
- NCE (Nigeria Certificate in Education) in Business Education, Economics, or any relevant subject with at least Merit level.
- HND (Higher National Diploma) holders in Marketing or related fields may also be considered, especially by some universities offering flexible admission options.
Nigerian Universities Offering Marketing 2026
| S/N | Nigerian Universities to Study Marketing |
| 1 | University of Lagos (UNILAG) |
| 2 | Bayero University, Kano (BUK) |
| 3 | University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) |
| 4 | Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) |
| 5 | Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) |
| 6 | Lagos State University (LASU) |
| 7 | Covenant University, Ota |
| 8 | University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) |
| 9 | Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria |
| 10 | University of Benin (UNIBEN) |
Frequently Asked Questions
While Commerce is relevant, Economics is more widely accepted and often required by most universities. It is safer to include Economics to avoid admission issues. Commerce can be your fourth subject.
Marketing is a commercial course. It falls under the Faculty of Management Sciences or Business Administration in most universities.
Yes! Marketing is a versatile and valuable course with career opportunities in branding, advertising, sales, public relations, digital marketing, and business strategy, both in Nigeria and abroad.
No. Economics is compulsory for most universities offering Marketing. While subjects like Geography or Agricultural Science are useful in other fields, they are not substitutes for Economics in Marketing admission.
No. Marketing does not require science subjects like Physics or Chemistry. It is a commercial course, so focus on subjects like Mathematics, Economics, Commerce, and Accounting.
Yes, if you meet the O’Level and qualification requirements. For instance, if you studied Business Admin or Mass Communication at OND/NCE level, you may be eligible to switch to Marketing.
No. Mathematics is compulsory for studying Marketing. You must have at least a credit pass in Mathematics.
