How to Get an International BSc Degree from Nigeria

Many students in Nigeria dream of earning a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree from a foreign university but may not have the financial means to travel abroad. Fortunately, there are ways to achieve this without leaving the country. With the rise of online learning and partnerships between Nigerian and foreign institutions, it is now possible to obtain an international degree while studying from home.

This article explains different ways to get a BSc degree from a foreign university while staying in Nigeria, including online programs, transnational education, and scholarship opportunities.

1. Online Degree Programs from Foreign Universities

Many universities abroad offer full-time online degree programs that provide the same certificate as on-campus students. These programs are designed to accommodate international students who cannot travel but still want to earn a degree from a well-known institution.

Advantages of Online BSc Degrees

• Study from anywhere in Nigeria without worrying about visa applications or travel expenses.
• Flexible schedules allow students to balance their studies with work or other commitments.
• Access to a wide range of courses and programs that may not be available in Nigerian universities.
• Internationally recognized certificates that can boost career opportunities.

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Top Universities Offering Online BSc Degrees

Several universities in the UK, US, Canada, and other countries offer fully online BSc programs. Some popular ones include:

• University of London (UK) – Offers online degrees through its distance learning platform.
• University of South Africa (UNISA) – One of Africa’s largest distance learning institutions.
• Arizona State University (USA) – Provides online degrees in various fields.
• University of the People (USA) – Offers tuition-free degree programs with minimal administrative fees.
• Open University (UK) – Known for its flexible learning structure.

How to Apply for Online Degrees

1. Choose a University: Research and select an institution that offers a program in your field of interest.
2. Check Requirements: Most universities require a high school certificate (WAEC, NECO, or equivalent), English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL in some cases), and application fees.
3. Submit an Application: Fill out the online application form and upload necessary documents.
4. Pay Fees: Some schools offer installment payment plans to make tuition more affordable.
5. Start Studying: Once admitted, students receive access to online lectures, assignments, and exams.

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2. Foreign University Campuses in Nigeria

Some foreign universities have campuses or affiliated institutions in Nigeria where students can study and earn a degree from the parent university abroad. These institutions follow the curriculum of the foreign school and award degrees recognized internationally.

Examples of Foreign University Campuses in Nigeria

• Lancaster University Ghana (affiliated with Lancaster University, UK)
• Pan-Atlantic University (partnered with foreign institutions for some programs)
• Nile University of Nigeria (affiliated with Turkish universities)
• Baze University (has collaborations with foreign universities for dual degrees)

These institutions provide the same quality of education as their parent universities, and students can sometimes transfer to the main campus abroad to complete their studies.

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3. Studying Through Partner Institutions

Some Nigerian universities have partnerships with foreign universities that allow students to start their BSc program in Nigeria and complete it abroad. This arrangement is often referred to as a “2+2” or “3+1” program, where students study for a certain number of years in Nigeria before transferring.

Examples of Such Programs

• Covenant University has partnerships with foreign schools for credit transfers.
• Afe Babalola University collaborates with international universities for exchange programs.
• Babcock University offers joint degree programs with American and European institutions.

These programs are good options for students who want to study in a foreign institution but prefer to start locally before transferring.

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4. Scholarship Opportunities for Online and Partnered Programs

Many universities and international organizations offer scholarships for students who want to study online or through partnered institutions. Some popular ones include:

• Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships – Covers tuition fees for online degrees from UK universities.
• University of the People Scholarships – Offers tuition-free education for international students.
• Edinburgh Global Online Learning Scholarships – Provides funding for online students from developing countries.
• MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program – Supports African students in various institutions.

5. Studying Through MOOCs and Credit Transfer Programs

Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) offer another way to earn credits toward a BSc degree. Some universities accept credits earned from platforms like Coursera, edX, and FutureLearn, allowing students to transfer them into degree programs.

6. Choosing the Right International Degree Program

Before selecting a program, consider the following factors:

• Accreditation: Ensure the university is recognized by relevant education bodies.
• Course Flexibility: Online and blended programs should fit into your schedule.
• Tuition Fees and Payment Plans: Check if the cost is affordable or if there are installment options.
• Support Services: Choose a program with good student support, including career guidance and tutoring.

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