Nursing is one of the most in-demand healthcare professions in Nigeria, offering job security, respect, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact. While many aspiring nurses aim for universities, several Nigerian polytechnics and colleges of health now offer ND (National Diploma) and HND (Higher National Diploma) programs in Nursing and related fields.
This article provides a detailed guide to:
- A list of Nigerian polytechnics and colleges offering ND/HND Nursing
- Their cut-off marks, locations, and admission requirements
- What you will learn in these programs
- And why each institution stands out
General Admission Requirements for ND/HND Nursing in Nigeria
Before applying, here are the typical entry requirements for ND or HND Nursing programs in Nigeria:
ND (National Diploma) Nursing
- Minimum of 5 credit passes in SSCE (WAEC/NECO) in:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- JAMB subject combination: English, Biology, Chemistry, Physics
- JAMB cut-off mark: Usually 150 – 180, depending on the institution
HND (Higher National Diploma) Nursing
- ND in Nursing or related health science discipline from an accredited institution
- Minimum of Lower Credit in ND result
- Evidence of 1-year industrial training
- Some institutions may require additional screening
What You Will Learn in ND/HND Nursing
The curriculum is designed to provide students with clinical knowledge, community health skills, and practical experience to prepare for patient care and hospital work.
You will study:
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- Anatomy and Physiology
- Microbiology
- Medical-Surgical Nursing
- Mental Health and Psychiatric Nursing
- Community Health Nursing
- Pediatric Nursing
- Midwifery
- Pharmacology
- Public Health
- Health Ethics and Law
Students will also engage in clinical postings to hospitals, rural communities, and maternity homes.
Top Polytechnics and Health Colleges Offering ND/HND Nursing in Nigeria (With Cut-Off Marks)
Below is a list of institutions offering Nursing at diploma levels, with their JAMB cut-off marks, locations, and what makes them unique.
1. Ogun State College of Health Technology, Ilese-Ijebu – (Cut-Off Mark: 160)
- Location & Info: Ilese-Ijebu, Ogun State.
- Why You’ll Like It: Pioneer health college in Nigeria; well-structured programs in Community Health and Nursing.
2. Lagos State College of Nursing, Igando – (Cut-Off Mark: 180)
- Location & Info: Igando, Lagos.
- Why You’ll Like It: Strategically located for practicals at LASUTH. High-performance rate in Nursing Council exams.
3. College of Nursing and Midwifery, Eleyele, Ibadan – (Cut-Off Mark: 170)
- Location & Info: Ibadan, Oyo State.
- Why You’ll Like It: Over 70 years of training excellence; modern facilities and community-based teaching.
4. Kaduna State College of Nursing and Midwifery – (Cut-Off Mark: 160)
- Location & Info: Kafanchan, Kaduna State.
- Why You’ll Like It: Expanding northern institution with excellent rural health emphasis.
5. College of Nursing Sciences, Lafia – (Cut-Off Mark: 160)
- Location & Info: Nasarawa State.
- Why You’ll Like It: One of the fastest-growing in the North-Central zone. Strong focus on maternal care and child health.
6. Shehu Sule College of Nursing and Midwifery – (Cut-Off Mark: 160)
- Location & Info: Damaturu, Yobe State.
- Why You’ll Like It: Affordable fees, experienced tutors, and reliable academic calendar.
7. Niger State College of Nursing Sciences – (Cut-Off Mark: 160)
- Location & Info: Bida, Niger State.
- Why You’ll Like It: Well-structured HND nursing pathway and conducive learning environment.
8. ECWA School of Nursing, Egbe – (Cut-Off Mark: 170)
- Location & Info: Egbe, Kogi State.
- Why You’ll Like It: Faith-based institution known for discipline, quality education, and affordable fees.
9. College of Nursing, Obangede – (Cut-Off Mark: 160)
- Location & Info: Obangede, Kogi State.
- Why You’ll Like It: Backed by state government with modern laboratories and good rural posting programs.
10. Rivers State College of Health Science and Technology – (Cut-Off Mark: 160)
- Location & Info: Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
- Why You’ll Like It: Central in South-South Nigeria, linked to multiple clinical facilities for student training.
11. Edo State College of Nursing Sciences – (Cut-Off Mark: 170)
- Location & Info: Benin City, Edo State.
- Why You’ll Like It: Newly upgraded facilities, tech integration in Nursing training, and high NMCN pass rate.
12. Bayelsa State College of Health Technology – (Cut-Off Mark: 160)
- Location & Info: Otuogidi, Bayelsa.
- Why You’ll Like It: Known for excellent midwifery and public health orientation.
13. Kwara State College of Nursing, Oke-Ode – (Cut-Off Mark: 160)
- Location & Info: Oke-Ode, Kwara State.
- Why You’ll Like It: Tranquil environment and supportive academic staff.
14. Gombe State College of Nursing and Midwifery – (Cut-Off Mark: 160)
- Location & Info: Gombe State.
- Why You’ll Like It: Government-backed program with strong maternal health focus and consistent calendar.
15. FCT School of Nursing, Gwagwalada – (Cut-Off Mark: 180)
- Location & Info: Abuja (FCT).
- Why You’ll Like It: Federal support, proximity to teaching hospitals, and exposure to national health programs.
16. Akwa Ibom State School of Nursing – (Cut-Off Mark: 170)
- Location & Info: Ituk-Mbang, Akwa Ibom.
- Why You’ll Like It: Beautiful campus with rich clinical training and consistent academic delivery.
17. College of Health Sciences and Technology, Calabar – (Cut-Off Mark: 160)
- Location & Info: Calabar, Cross River.
- Why You’ll Like It: Peaceful environment and accessible practical centers.
18. Plateau State College of Nursing, Vom – (Cut-Off Mark: 160)
- Location & Info: Vom, Plateau State.
- Why You’ll Like It: Historic nursing school with generations of trained professionals across Nigeria.
19. Kebbi State College of Nursing – (Cut-Off Mark: 160)
- Location & Info: Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State.
- Why You’ll Like It: Affordable tuition, large student population, and effective clinical supervision.
20. Bauchi State College of Nursing and Midwifery – (Cut-Off Mark: 160)
- Location & Info: Bauchi.
- Why You’ll Like It: Well-structured programs, improving infrastructure, and a high national exam success rate.
Important Notes
- Always check NMCN (Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria) accreditation status before applying.
- Most colleges require entrance exams or interviews aside from JAMB.
- Some institutions use their school of nursing portals, not JAMB, for admission.
To Conclude
ND and HND Nursing programs in Nigerian polytechnics and health colleges offer an accessible and high-quality route into the nursing profession. Whether you’re looking for affordable tuition, proximity to hospitals, or reliable training, there’s a school on this list for you.
Stay updated with admission deadlines, prepare well for entrance exams, and choose a school that aligns with your career goals.
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