Everything You Need to Know About Polytechnic Part-Time Programs

Are you considering a flexible academic path that fits your busy schedule? Polytechnic part-time programs have become a fast-track solution for many Nigerians looking to pursue National Diploma (ND) or Higher National Diploma (HND) qualifications without the hassle of JAMB or full-time study. Whether you’re a working professional, a business owner, or someone simply looking for a second chance at higher education, part-time programs offer convenience and opportunity. But before you accept that admission, it’s important to understand the types of part-time programs available, their pros and cons, NYSC eligibility, tuition costs, and much more. This guide explains it all down for you. Let’s get started.

Types of Polytechnic Part-Time Programs

1. Weekend Part-Time Programs

Weekend part-time programs are designed for working-class individuals who cannot participate in regular weekday academic activities like full-time students. Lectures are held on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. On Fridays, lectures usually take place in the evening, while on Saturdays and Sundays, classes may run from morning to evening, depending on the institution.

Weekend programs are typically available at both ND and HND levels, although some polytechnics offer weekend programs only for ND students.

Advantages of Weekend Part-Time Programs

• Flexibility: You can work and study simultaneously without stress.
• No JAMB required: You don’t need to write JAMB to gain admission.
• Basic requirement: Your O’Level results are the primary admission requirement.

Disadvantages of Weekend Part-Time Programs

1. Expensive Tuition Fees
   Tuition for weekend part-time programs is usually high. Fees range from ₦150,000 upward per session, excluding other charges. In private polytechnics, tuition often starts from ₦180,000, based on the assumption that most part-time students are working professionals.
2. NYSC Eligibility
   Weekend part-time students are not eligible for NYSC. Upon completion of the HND program, they are issued a NYSC exemption certificate. However, in rare cases, students who completed ND part-time and HND full-time may be considered for NYSC, though it is not guaranteed.
3. Duration
   The duration for both ND and HND weekend part-time programs is typically three years.

2. Daily Part-Time Program (DPP/DPT)

Also known as DPT or DPP, the daily part-time program involves attending lectures on weekdays, usually in the afternoon or evening.

Advantages of Daily Part-Time Programs

• No JAMB required: Although some schools like Poly Ibadan may require a JAMB result, most do not.
• Lectures every day: You attend lectures daily, just like full-time students.
• Fast-track program: Duration is two years for both ND and HND, similar to full-time programs.
• No distinction: Since you attend daily, it’s hard to tell whether you’re a part-time or full-time student.

Disadvantages of Daily Part-Time Programs

1. JAMB Verdict
   JAMB has disapproved of daily part-time programs, calling them unauthorized. As such, graduates may not qualify for NYSC and will instead be issued an exemption certificate.
2. NYSC Ineligibility
   Graduates from HND daily part-time programs are not eligible for NYSC but will receive an exclusion certificate, which is similar to the NYSC discharge certificate in functionality.
3. School Fees
   Tuition fees are high, ranging between ₦100,000 and ₦150,000 per session.
4. Intensive Lecture Schedule
   Daily lectures make it difficult for working individuals to cope. This program is more suited for those who did not gain admission through JAMB but want a full-time academic experience.
5. Duration
   The duration for both ND and HND is two years, just like full-time programs.

3. Full-Time Evening Program

This is another label used for daily part-time programs. Also known simply as the Evening Program, it has the same features as the DPP/DPT setup.

• Lectures are held Monday to Friday.
• Duration is two years for both ND and HND levels.

ALSO READ: Weekend Business Ideas for Working Class Nigerians

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Polytechnic Part-Time Programs

1. What is a polytechnic part-time program?
A polytechnic part-time program is a flexible academic option that allows students to pursue ND or HND courses outside regular full-time schedules—usually in the evenings, weekends, or modular formats.

2. Who can apply for part-time programs in polytechnics?
These programs are ideal for working professionals, entrepreneurs, mature students, and individuals who cannot attend full-time classes.

3. What is the duration of a part-time polytechnic program?
Most part-time ND or HND programs last three years, depending on the institution’s calendar.

4. Is a part-time certificate the same as full-time?
Yes. There’s no indication of “part-time” on the certificate; it’s the same as full-time.

5. Can part-time students go for NYSC?
No. Part-time graduates are not eligible for NYSC but receive an Exemption Letter recognized for employment.

6. Can part-time students switch to full-time?
Some institutions allow switching under strict conditions. For example, ND part-time students can switch to full-time HND, and vice versa.

7. How are part-time classes scheduled?
Classes are held on weekends, evenings, or in modular blocks, depending on the school.

8. What is the cost of a part-time polytechnic program?
Expect to pay ₦150,000 to ₦200,000 per session, excluding textbooks, accommodation, and other fees.

9. What are the admission requirements?

• At least five O’Level credits, including English and Mathematics
• JAMB is not required in most cases
• Relevant work experience or ND/HND for advanced HND entry

10. How can I apply?

• Visit the school’s online portal
• Fill out the application form
• Pay the processing fee
• Upload required credentials
• Await screening or interview (if necessary)

11. Do part-time students go for Industrial Training (IT)?
Yes. Both ND and HND part-time students are required to complete SIWES/internship.

12. Is it possible to work and study comfortably?
Yes. That’s the key benefit of part-time study—flexibility.

13. Which polytechnics offer part-time programs in Nigeria?
Almost all polytechnics do, including:

• YABATECH
• Federal Polytechnic, Nekede
• Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti
• MAPOLY, among others

14. Are there online or distance-learning part-time programs?
Yes, though limited. Some polytechnics now offer e-learning or hybrid part-time programs such as:

• Kwara Poly
• Offa Poly
• YABATECH
• Auchi Polytechnic
• Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro

15. Can I use a part-time certificate for further studies?
Absolutely. ND or HND part-time graduates can pursue:

• Top-up degree programs
• Postgraduate diplomas
• Direct entry admissions into universities

Just make sure your grades are strong.

ALSO READ: Polytechnics that Offer Part-Time, Weekend Part-time, and Distance Learning Programmes