Choosing the right JAMB subject combination is a crucial first step for anyone aspiring to study Social Work in a Nigerian university. It not only affects your chances of gaining admission but also determines how well-prepared you’ll be for your degree program.
Social Work is a multidisciplinary field that blends elements of sociology, psychology, and public administration. It requires a broad understanding of human behavior, society, and policies that affect people’s lives. That’s why selecting the appropriate subjects for your UTME is so important.
JAMB Subject Combination for Social Work 2026
According to the JAMB brochure and university requirements, the four UTME subjects you should choose to study Social Work are:
- Use of English (Compulsory for all candidates
- Government or History
- Economics
- Any other relevant subject (e.g., CRK/IRS, Literature in English, or Geography)
O’Level Requirements
To qualify for admission, candidates must have at least five credit passes in SSCE or equivalent, including:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Government or History
- Christian Religious Studies (CRS) or Islamic Studies (IRS)
- Any other Arts or Social Science subject (e.g., Economics, Geography, or Literature in English)
Direct Entry Requirements
If you are applying via Direct Entry (DE), you must have one of the following:
- A’Level passes in relevant subjects such as Government, History, or Religious Studies.
- NCE in Social Work, Sociology, or related fields.
- Diploma in Social Work or related fields from a recognized institution.
Nigerian Universities Offering Social Work
| S/N | Nigerian Universities Offering Social Work |
| 1 | Fountain University |
| 2 | Babcock University |
| 3 | University of Benin |
| 4 | University of Lagos |
| 5 | Redeemer’s University |
| 6 | University of Calabar |
| 7 | University of Ilorin |
| 8 | Afe Babalola University |
| 9 | University of Nigeria |
Career Opportunities in Social Work
Here are the top career opportunities in Social Work you can pursue after earning a degree in the field:
- Social Worker
- Child Welfare Officer
- Community Development Officer
- Mental Health Counselor
- Human Rights Advocate
- Social Work Educator or Lecturer
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, some universities accept CRS or IRS as the fourth subject in place of Economics, depending on their specific requirements. Always check the JAMB brochure or your preferred university’s admission guidelines.
No, Mathematics is not required in JAMB for Social Work. However, you need at least a credit pass in Mathematics at the O’Level (WAEC, NECO, or equivalent).
Yes, most universities in Nigeria accept a combination of WAEC and NECO results as long as you meet the required five credits, including English, Mathematics, and relevant Social Science subjects.
Government or History is usually required, but some universities may allow a related Social Science subject. However, to be on the safe side and meet the general requirement, include Government or History.
Yes, Literature in English can be accepted as a fourth subject, especially in universities that allow a broader range of Social Science or Arts subjects.
The standard duration for a Social Work degree in Nigerian universities is four (4) years, provided there are no academic disruptions or carryovers.
Yes, you can switch through inter-faculty transfer or change of course via JAMB. However, you must meet the subject and grade requirements for Social Work.
