EDUCATION

Direct Entry Nursing Programs in Nigeria: All You Need to Know

Direct entry nursing programs in Nigeria provide an opportunity for individuals who already have certain qualifications to study nursing without starting from scratch. This pathway helps many aspiring nurses fast-track their education and begin their careers in a shorter time compared to regular entry methods.

Nursing is one of the most respected professions in the country due to its role in healthcare delivery. With the demand for skilled nurses rising, many institutions now offer direct entry programs to encourage more people to join the field. If you are considering becoming a nurse through this route, this article will walk you through what to expect.

What is Direct Entry Nursing Program?

Direct entry nursing programs allow candidates with advanced academic qualifications to gain admission directly into the second year of a nursing degree. Unlike the traditional entry that requires candidates to begin from the first year, direct entry shortens the duration of the program.

The program is mainly for those who already have a National Diploma (ND), Higher National Diploma (HND), or a bachelor’s degree in related courses such as Biology, Microbiology, Health Sciences, or any other science-related field. This pathway is also available to Registered Nurses (RN) who wish to obtain a Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc) degree.

Who Can Apply for Direct Entry Nursing Programs?

To be eligible for direct entry into nursing programs in Nigeria, applicants must meet certain requirements. These include:

1. Educational Qualification:

ND or HND in health-related courses
Bachelor’s degree in science-related disciplines
Registered Nurse (RN) certificate from a recognized nursing institution

2. O’Level Requirements:

Minimum of five credit passes in English Language, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology in not more than two sittings

3. Direct Entry Form:

Candidates must obtain the JAMB direct entry form and choose their preferred university offering nursing programs.

4. Transcript Submission:

Candidates with ND, HND, or bachelor’s degrees are often required to submit their academic transcripts.

5. Professional Certificate:

Registered Nurses must present their registration certificate from the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN).

How Long Does Direct Entry Nursing Program Last?

The duration of direct entry nursing programs in Nigeria usually ranges between three to four years, depending on the university.

For candidates with ND, HND, or a related bachelor’s degree, the program typically lasts three years.
For Registered Nurses seeking a degree upgrade, the program usually spans two to three years.

This shorter duration helps candidates save time while acquiring the necessary knowledge and skills to become professional nurses.

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Admission Process for Direct Entry Nursing Programs

The admission process follows several stages:

1. JAMB Direct Entry Registration: Candidates must purchase the JAMB direct entry form, fill in their details, and choose a preferred university.

2. University Application: After JAMB registration, applicants must visit the university’s website to apply for the program. This often involves filling out online forms and uploading necessary documents.

3. Screening or Entrance Examination: Some universities conduct screening exercises or entrance examinations to select qualified candidates.

4. Interview: Certain institutions may invite shortlisted candidates for interviews as part of the selection process.

5. Admission List: Successful candidates will be listed on the university’s admission portal, and they can proceed with registration and payment of acceptance fees.

ALSO READ: How to Become a Nurse in Nigeria

Top Universities Offering Direct Entry Nursing Programs in Nigeria

Several universities in Nigeria offer direct entry nursing programs. Some of the popular ones include:

University of Lagos (UNILAG)
University of Benin (UNIBEN)
University of Ibadan (UI)
Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
Lagos State University (LASU)
Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
Bayero University Kano (BUK)

However, POLY TV will advise you to research each university’s specific admission requirements before applying.

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What You Will Learn in Direct Entry Nursing Programs

Direct entry nursing programs cover both theoretical and practical aspects of nursing. Some of the core subjects include:

Anatomy and Physiology
Pharmacology
Medical-Surgical Nursing
Community Health Nursing
Maternal and Child Health Nursing
Psychiatric Nursing
Nursing Ethics
Microbiology
Pathology

Students also undergo clinical postings in hospitals to gain hands-on experience in patient care.

Career Opportunities After Graduation

Graduates from direct entry nursing programs can work in various healthcare settings. Some career opportunities include:

Hospital Nurse
Community Health Nurse
Pediatric Nurse
Psychiatric Nurse
Public Health Nurse
Nurse Educator
Research Nurse

With further training, nurses can specialize in different fields such as oncology, anesthetics, and critical care.

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Challenges of Direct Entry Nursing Programs

While the direct entry pathway offers a faster route to becoming a nurse, there are certain challenges applicants may face:

Limited Admission Slots: Most universities have limited spaces for direct entry candidates.
High Competition: Due to the shorter duration, many candidates apply, making the competition tough.
Academic Pressure: The compressed nature of the program means students must cover more content within a shorter time.