Choosing the correct JAMB subject combination for Psychology is one of the most important steps for Nigerian students who want to study this course at university. Every year, many candidates lose admission opportunities simply because they selected the wrong UTME subjects during registration.

If you plan to study Psychology in any Nigerian university for the 2026/2027 academic session, this article explains the exact JAMB subjects required, O’level requirements, direct entry criteria, and universities offering Psychology in Nigeria. It is fully aligned with current admission standards from the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board.

What Is Psychology?

Psychology is the scientific study of human behavior, emotions, cognition, and mental processes. It explores how people think, feel, learn, and interact with their environment.

Students who study Psychology can work in fields such as:

• Clinical psychology

• Counseling and therapy

• Human resources

• Education and research

• Mental health services

• Social work

Because Psychology combines science and social science, universities require a mix of science-related and arts/social science subjects in JAMB.

Correct JAMB Subject Combination for Psychology

To study Psychology in Nigeria, the approved JAMB subject combination is:

• English Language (compulsory)

• Biology

• Two of the following:

  • Chemistry

  • Physics

  • Mathematics

  • Economics

This means the most common combinations candidates use are:

• English + Biology + Chemistry + Physics

• English + Biology + Chemistry + Mathematics

• English + Biology + Economics + Chemistry

• English + Biology + Economics + Mathematics

Biology is the key subject because Psychology has strong foundations in human biology and brain science.

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Why Biology Is Required for Psychology

Psychology Is Linked to Human Biology

Modern Psychology includes areas such as:

• Neuroscience

• Cognitive science

• Behavioral biology

• Mental health

These areas rely on understanding the brain and nervous system, which is why Biology is compulsory in JAMB.

Universities Expect a Science Background

Even though Psychology is not a medical course, Nigerian universities classify it under:

• Social sciences

• Health sciences

• Behavioral sciences

Therefore, Biology helps prepare students for:

• Brain function studies

• Human development

• Mental disorders

• Behavior research

O’Level Requirements for Psychology Admission

Apart from JAMB subjects, candidates must meet WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB requirements.

Required O’Level Subjects

You must have at least five (5) credits, including:

• English Language

• Mathematics

• Biology

• Any two of:

  • Chemistry

  • Physics

  • Economics

  • Government

  • Geography

Most universities require these credits in not more than two sittings.

Direct Entry Requirements for Psychology

Candidates applying through Direct Entry instead of UTME must meet advanced qualifications.

Accepted Direct Entry Qualifications

You may be admitted into the 200 level with:

• Two A-Level passes in Biology and any science/social science subject

• OND/HND in related fields (e.g., Social Work, Health Sciences)

• NCE in Biology or Social Science

• IJMB or JUPEB with relevant subjects

Each university may have slight variations, so always confirm with the institution.

Universities Offering Psychology in Nigeria

Many Nigerian universities offer Psychology under different faculties such as Social Sciences or Education.

Federal Universities

Examples include:

• University of Ibadan

• University of Nigeria

• University of Lagos

• Obafemi Awolowo University

• Ahmadu Bello University

State Universities

Examples include:

• Lagos State University

• Delta State University

• Ekiti State University

Private Universities

Examples include:

• Covenant University

• Babcock University

• Afe Babalola University

Admission competitiveness varies across institutions.

JAMB Cut-Off Mark for Psychology in Nigeria

Psychology cut-off marks depend on the university.

General Benchmarks

• Top federal universities: 220–260

• Mid-range universities: 200–220

• State/private universities: 160–200

Highly competitive schools like UNILAG and UI often require higher scores.

Common Mistakes Candidates Make

Many students lose Psychology admission due to subject errors.

Choosing Arts Instead of Science Subjects

Wrong combinations like:

• English + Government + Literature + CRS

These are invalid for Psychology.

Omitting Biology

Biology is compulsory. Without it, you are ineligible.

Using Too Many Arts Subjects

Psychology requires science or social science support subjects.

Best JAMB Combination Strategy for Psychology

If your goal is admission into top universities, use:

English + Biology + Chemistry + Physics

Why?

• Accepted by all universities

• Science-based flexibility

• Competitive advantage

• Suitable for health-related careers

Career Opportunities for Psychology Graduates

Psychology graduates have diverse career paths.

Health and Clinical Fields

• Clinical psychologist

• Mental health counselor

• Psychiatric assistant

• Rehabilitation specialist

Corporate and Organizational Roles

• Human resources manager

• Organizational psychologist

• Talent development specialist

Education and Research

• Academic lecturer

• Behavioral researcher

• Educational psychologist

Social and Community Services

• Social worker

• Addiction counselor

• NGO program officer

Demand for mental health professionals is growing in Nigeria and globally.

Is Psychology a Good Course in Nigeria?

Yes. Psychology is increasingly valuable due to:

• Rising mental health awareness

• Corporate HR demand

• The education sector needs

• Counseling services growth

• NGO and development sector roles

It also provides strong postgraduate opportunities.

Can You Study Psychology Without Chemistry?

Yes, in many universities.

Valid combinations include:

• English + Biology + Economics + Mathematics

• English + Biology + Economics + Physics

However, Chemistry strengthens your admission chances in competitive universities.

Can Commercial or Arts Students Study Psychology?

Yes, provided you have Biology.

Acceptable background:

• Commercial with Biology

• Science students

• Mixed science/social science

Pure arts without Biology cannot study Psychology in Nigeria.

Tips to Secure Psychology Admission in Nigeria

Follow these proven strategies:

• Choose Biology in WAEC and JAMB

• Aim for 220+ JAMB score

• Select science-friendly universities

• Confirm school-specific requirements

• Apply early in admission cycle

These steps significantly improve admission success.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the four JAMB subjects for Psychology?

English, Biology, and any two of Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, or Economics.

Is Mathematics compulsory for Psychology?

No. But Mathematics is often required in O’level.

Can I combine Biology and Economics?

Yes. It is accepted by many universities.

Is Psychology under science or art?

Psychology is a behavioral science combining science and social science.

Key Point

Selecting the correct JAMB subject combination for Psychology is essential for gaining admission into Nigerian universities. The approved combination — English, Biology, and two science or social science subjects — aligns with the scientific foundations of Psychology and university admission standards.

Candidates should prioritize Biology and choose supporting science subjects like Chemistry or Physics to maximize admission chances, especially in competitive institutions.

By understanding the correct requirements, avoiding common mistakes, and aiming for a strong JAMB score, you can successfully secure admission to study Psychology in Nigeria for the 2026/2027 academic session.

If you have questions to ask regarding the JAMB Subject combination for Psychology, please drop them in the comment box, and our team will respond to you immediately.