Choosing the correct JAMB subject combination for Mass Communication is one of the most important steps for candidates seeking admission into Nigerian universities to study Media, Journalism, or Communication-related courses. Every year, thousands of students lose admission opportunities because they select the wrong UTME subjects or misunderstand O-level requirements.

If you are planning to study Mass Communication, Media and Communication Studies, or related courses in the 2026/2027 academic session, this article explains the approved JAMB subject combination for Mass Communication, WAEC/NECO requirements, direct entry options, and universities offering the course in Nigeria.

What Is Mass Communication as a Course?

Mass Communication is a multidisciplinary field that focuses on how information is created, transmitted, and consumed through media channels such as television, radio, newspapers, digital media, and public relations platforms. Students are trained in journalism, broadcasting, advertising, media production, and strategic communication.

Graduates can work in broadcasting stations, newspapers, advertising agencies, PR firms, digital media companies, and corporate communication departments.

Approved JAMB Subject Combination for Mass Communication

To study Mass Communication in Nigerian universities, the approved UTME subject combination is:

• English Language (compulsory)

• Literature in English

• Government or History

• Any other relevant Arts or Social Science subject

This combination aligns with the communication, writing, and social analysis skills required in media and journalism.

Subject combination for law
Subject combination for pharmacy
Subject combination for medicine
Subject combination for Computer Science
Subject combination for Public Administration
Subject combination for Business Administration

Why These Subjects Are Required

English Language

English is mandatory for all JAMB candidates and especially crucial for Mass Communication because the course relies heavily on writing, reporting, editing, and speaking skills.

Literature in English

Literature develops critical reading, storytelling, and language interpretation abilities—core competencies for journalism, scriptwriting, and media production.

Government or History

Mass Communication interacts closely with politics, society, and public policy. Knowledge of governance systems and historical context supports accurate reporting and analysis.

Any Other Arts/Social Science Subject

Subjects such as CRS/IRS, Economics, or Geography complement communication studies by broadening social awareness and analytical thinking.

O’Level Requirements for Mass Communication

Apart from selecting the correct JAMB subjects, candidates must also meet WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB O-level requirements.

Required Credits

You need at least five (5) credit passes, including:

• English Language

• Literature in English

• Mathematics

• Government or History

• Any other Arts or Social Science subject

Mathematics is compulsory in most universities, even though Mass Communication is an Arts/Social Science course.

Direct Entry Requirements for Mass Communication

Candidates applying through Direct Entry (DE) must possess higher qualifications such as ND, NCE, IJMB, or A-level results.

Acceptable Direct Entry Qualifications

• ND in Mass Communication, Journalism, or related field (Upper Credit preferred)

• NCE in English, Theatre Arts, or Communication-related subject

• IJMB or A-Level with Literature and Government

• HND in Mass Communication (for advanced placement)

Direct Entry candidates are typically admitted into the 200 level.

Universities Offering Mass Communication in Nigeria

Mass Communication or Media and Communication Studies is offered in many Nigerian federal, state, and private universities.

Federal Universities

• University of Lagos (UNILAG)

• University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)

• Bayero University Kano (BUK)

• University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID)

• Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE)

• Federal University Lafia (FULAFIA)

State Universities

• Lagos State University (LASU)

• Benue State University (BSU)

• Delta State University (DELSU)

• Ekiti State University (EKSU)

• Abia State University (ABSU)

Private Universities

• Covenant University

• Babcock University

• Bowen University

• Afe Babalola University

• Lead City University

Some universities now rename the course as Media and Communication Studies, Communication and Media Studies, or Strategic Communication.

JAMB Cut-Off Mark for Mass Communication

Mass Communication is a competitive course in Nigeria, especially in top universities.

Typical Cut-Off Range

• Federal universities: 200 – 270

• State universities: 180 – 240

• Private universities: 160 – 200

Highly competitive schools like UNILAG and UNN may require 250+ due to high applicant volume.

Difference Between Mass Communication and Media & Communication Studies

Many candidates are confused by course naming differences.

Mass Communication

Traditional program focusing on journalism, broadcasting, PR, and advertising.

Media and Communication Studies

Broader program including digital media, film, communication theory, and multimedia production.

Despite the name difference, the JAMB subject combination is usually the same.

Career Opportunities for Mass Communication Graduates

Mass Communication graduates have diverse employment paths in Nigeria and globally.

Journalism and Broadcasting

• Reporter

• News editor

• TV presenter

• Radio host

• Documentary producer

Public Relations and Advertising

• PR officer

• Brand strategist

• Media planner

• Copywriter

• Advertising executive

Digital Media and Content Creation

• Social media manager

• Content creator

• Digital marketer

• Podcast producer

• YouTuber

Corporate Communication

• Communication officer

• Corporate affairs manager

• Government spokesperson

• NGO communication specialist

How to Score High in JAMB for Mass Communication

Since the course is competitive, a high UTME score improves admission chances.

Focus on Core Subjects

Prioritize:

• English comprehension and summary

• Literature texts and themes

• Government topics

• Current affairs

Practice Past Questions

Repeated question patterns appear often in:

• Literature texts

• Government structures

• English usage

Improve Reading Skills

Mass Communication candidates must read widely:

• Newspapers

• Editorials

• Articles

• Literary texts

Best Subject Combination Strategy

To maximize admission chances:

• Choose English, Literature, Government, CRS/Economics

• Ensure WAEC credits match JAMB subjects

• Select universities within your score range

• Aim for 230+ in UTME for competitive schools

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is Literature compulsory for Mass Communication in JAMB?

Yes. Literature in English is required by most Nigerian universities for Mass Communication and Media Studies.

Can I study Mass Communication without Literature?

In most universities, no. Literature credit in WAEC/NECO and subject in JAMB is usually compulsory.

Is Mathematics required for Mass Communication?

Yes. Mathematics credit is required in O-level, even though it is not a UTME subject for the course.

Can Commercial students study Mass Communication?

Yes, provided they have Literature, English, and Government in WAEC and select the correct JAMB combination.

Which university is best for Mass Communication in Nigeria?

Top-ranked options include UNILAG, UNN, LASU, Covenant University, and Babcock University.

Final Advice for JAMB 2026 Candidates

Selecting the correct JAMB subject combination for Mass Communication is essential for admission success. The approved UTME subjects remain:

• English Language

• Literature in English

• Government or History

• Any Arts/Social Science subject

Before registering for JAMB 2026:

• Confirm your WAEC subjects align

• Check university requirements

• Aim for a high UTME score

• Avoid wrong subject combinations

With the right preparation and subject choice, you can secure admission to study Mass Communication or Media and Communication Studies in Nigeria.

If you have questions to ask regarding the JAMB Subject Combination for Mass Communication, please drop them in the comment section. Our team will respond to you.