Best Postgraduate Programs for HND Graduates Looking to Change Careers in Nigeria

For many HND graduates in Nigeria, changing careers can feel like an uphill battle. Whether it’s due to employer bias, limited access to opportunities, or being boxed into a field they no longer enjoy, the frustration is real. But there’s a practical way out—postgraduate programs.

Certain postgraduate programs in Nigeria are well-suited for HND holders seeking to pivot into new industries. These programs don’t just provide academic credentials—they offer a bridge into better career paths, practical training for new job roles, and a way to escape the limitations of an HND-only qualification.

Postgraduate Programs Matter for Career Switchers

Most Nigerian employers expect candidates to have at least a bachelor’s degree for many roles, even if they are unrelated to the job at hand. This makes it difficult for HND graduates to apply for certain positions, especially in fields like corporate finance, media, development work, international relations, and HR.

Enrolling in a postgraduate diploma (PGD) or a professional master’s program can help level the playing field. These programs offer fresh knowledge, access to a different network, and qualifications that open doors in the job market.

Types of Postgraduate Programs HND Graduates Can Apply For

1. Postgraduate Diploma (PGD)

This is the most common path for HND holders. PGDs typically last one year and are accepted in both academic and professional settings. They’re offered by universities and polytechnics and can lead to a master’s degree later.

2. Professional Master’s Programs (Without Academic Masters Pathway)

Some universities offer professional master’s degrees that focus more on industry practice than research. Examples include Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Public Health (MPH), and Master in Information Technology.

3. Conversion Programs

Although not formally labeled “conversion,” some PGD or MBA programs allow students from unrelated backgrounds to switch fields. For example, someone with an HND in Chemistry can do a PGD in Project Management or an MBA in HR.

Best Fields to Consider for Career Change Through Postgraduate Study

Project Management

Regardless of your HND background, this field is open. With a PGD in project management or a master’s in related areas, you can work in NGOs, construction, ICT, or logistics.

Public Health and Health Administration

These are career-friendly fields for those coming from science, social science, or even education backgrounds. Schools like LASU and NOUN offer accessible programs.

Human Resource Management

Popular among business and social science switchers, HR is a growing area in both private companies and government. PGD in HRM or an MBA with an HR focus works well.

ALSO READ: HND to Master’s – How to Change Your Field of Study in Nigeria

Business Administration

For HND holders in engineering, sciences, or even hospitality, switching into business through an MBA or PGD in Business Management is a strong option. It opens doors to leadership, strategy, and management roles.

Information Technology and Data Science

If you’re moving from non-tech backgrounds, a PGD or MSc in IT, data analytics, or cybersecurity can help you enter Nigeria’s fast-growing tech industry.

Education and Educational Management

For HND holders who want to go into teaching or school management, postgraduate qualifications in education or curriculum development are essential.

Development Studies or International Relations

This is a smart switch for those eyeing careers in NGOs, UN bodies, or civil society work. PGD in Development Studies or master’s programs in international affairs are available in many Nigerian universities.

Schools in Nigeria Offering Career-Switch Friendly PGD or Master’s Programs

1. National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN)

Offers a wide range of PGD programs in business, education, public administration, and more. They’re flexible, affordable, and accessible from anywhere in Nigeria.

2. University of Lagos (UNILAG)

Accepts HND holders into various PGD programs including business admin, project management, and social work.

3. Lagos State University (LASU)

LASU’s School of Part-Time Studies and Postgraduate School have several career-friendly programs such as PGD in education, management, and IT.

4. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU Zaria)

Offers PGD and master’s programs in agricultural economics, project management, and public health.

5. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)

Known for education and development-related PGD and master’s programs that suit career changers.

6. Federal University of Technology, Minna and Akure (FUTMinna, FUTA)

Strong in tech and engineering, but also offer PGDs in entrepreneurship, remote sensing, and urban planning.

7. Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) and University of Ibadan (UI)

These schools offer policy, management, and public admin programs that are ideal for career changers aiming at civil service, security, or governance.

8. University of Jos, University of Port Harcourt, and University of Ilorin

All known for postgraduate programs in communications, finance, and business that support mid-career shifts.

ALSO READ: Postgraduate Options After HND – What You Can Do Next

Things to Consider Before Applying

• Relevance: Choose a program aligned with your new career goal. Avoid studying just for the certificate.
• Eligibility: Some programs may require work experience or a certain CGPA from your HND. Confirm before applying.
• Format: Decide between full-time, part-time, or distance learning based on your schedule.
• Cost: Check tuition fees, acceptance fees, and any extra certification costs.
• Career Outcome: Look for programs with internships, job placements, or alumni networks in your target field.

Certification Add-Ons That Strengthen Career Switch

If you’re pursuing a PGD or master’s to change careers, combine it with one or more of the following:

• PMP or PRINCE2 for project management.
• HSE certification for public health or industrial roles.
• Digital marketing certifications (Google, HubSpot) for business/media.
• Data analysis tools like Excel, Power BI, or SPSS.
• Professional HR certifications like CIPM.

These make your profile more practical and increase your chances of landing jobs faster after graduation.

What to Expect After the Program

Changing careers is not instant. Even with your new qualification, you may start at an entry or mid-level role before working your way up. Be prepared to prove yourself. Employers may test your adaptability before trusting you fully in the new field. However, your PGD or master’s makes you eligible for roles previously closed to you. It also gives you the credibility to freelance, consult, or apply for international jobs or scholarships.

ALSO READ: Change Career with Postgraduate Diploma