In Nigeria’s job market, it is no news that the most prioritized certificate is the Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) certification. It is only awarded to those who are graduates of recognized universities in Nigeria.
However, if you studied at a Polytechnic, you will be awarded with a Higher National Diploma (HND) certificate. In comparison to the B.Sc, the HND certificate is of lower certification value.
If you currently own a HND certificate and would like to convert to a B.Sc certificate, it is possible.
In this article, you will be reading a comprehensive guide on how to further your education after HND. Let’s get started immediately.
Benefits Of Converting From HND To B.Sc
Here are the benefits of converting from HND to B.Sc certificate:
1. Better Career Opportunities
Many companies prefer hiring B.Sc graduates to HND graduates. In fact, in many job postings uploaded on the internet, you’ll notice that preference are made to B.Sc holder than HND holders.
This is to show that B.Sc are given a more prioritized positions that HND graduates. The main reason for this is that many employers feel that many B.Sc graduates have been trained and equipped to handle a professional job than HND graduates.
2. Access to Postgraduate Programs
To further your education in most universities whether home or abroad, it is required that you have a B.Sc certification.
Most postgraduate programs do not recognized the HND certificate unless it is converted to the B.Sc certificate. So, this is one of the benefit you stand to gain when you have a postgraduate program.
3. Globally Recognized
A B.Sc is recognized across every country and continent of the world. It is capable of opening doors for you in different offices and departments you find yourself. On the other hand, a HND certificate may not be able to do that.
Eligibility Requirements for HND to B.Sc. Conversion
Here are the eligibility criteria for HND to B.Sc conversion in Nigeria:
• Those who are interested in converting their HND certificate should have at least credits in five O’Level subjects in no more two sittings.
• Eligible candidates must possess a National Diploma (ND) certificate.
• Candidates must also possess an HND certificate in a related course.
• Selected candidates must be those who provide clear evidence of completion of the mandatory one-year National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) programme or an NYSC exemption letter.
• Academic transcripts from previous institutions could also be required in some institutions (depending on the university).
Duration Of HND to B.Sc Conversion Programs
In Nigeria, HND to B.Sc conversion programs usually span between 1-2 years. Well, the exact duration depends on the university you decide to go for.
However, abroad, this conversion programs usually spans for 1 year. Most universities in U.S, UK, and Canada are known for their conversion programs.
READ ALSO: NYSC Mobilization: How To Avoid Delays As A Polytechnic Student
Universities In Nigeria That Are Known for HND to B.Sc Conversion Programs
Here are top universities that offer HND to B.Sc conversion programs:
Duration Of Program: 2-3 years.
University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
Duration Of Program: 2-3 years.
Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria
Duration Of Program: 2-3 years.
Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA)
Duration Of Program: 2-3 years.
Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun (FUPRE)
Duration Of Program: 2 years.
Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO)
Duration Of Program: 2 years.
Duration: 2 years.
Delta State University (DELSU)
Duration: 2–3 years.
Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka
Duration: 2 years.
National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN)
Duration: 2-3 years.
University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
Duration: 2–3 years.
How to Further Your Education After HND
Here is a step-by-step guide to further your education after your HND certificate:
Step 1. Look Up Institutions That Offer This Conversions
First, you need to look for universities around you or online that allow HND certificate holders to upgrade to B.Sc. Don’t be deceived, not all universities in Nigeria offer this. So you have to look well.
Now, if you’ve found one, check out what the university require. You need to check for information like what courses they offer in their conversion program, how much the school fees are, and if the program is accredited so that your degree is recognized.
Step 2: Get Your Documents Ready And Apply
Once you’ve found a good program, you’ll need to gather some documents to apply. These documents have been mentioned earlier in this article. Kindly cross check if you have those documents handy. Then, apply on the school’s official website.
Step 3. Admission
If your application is successful, the school will give you an admission letter. From there, you’ll pay any necessary fees, register properly as a student.
It is good to note that sone universities in Nigeria may organize an examination for those who desire to gain admissions into their universities. If that happens, take the examinations or look up other institutions that do not organize examinations for their students.
Conclusion
You’ve seen the process to convert your HND to B.Sc degree. What are you waiting for?
You’re friends are eager to get this information. Kindly forward this information to them to understand what this conversion involves.
