10 Highest Paying Courses to Study in Nigeria (2025 Update)
Introduction
Choosing the right course to study in Nigeria is one of the biggest decisions a student can make. While passion matters, some courses currently offer higher salaries, stronger job security, and better international opportunities. If you are preparing for JAMB, Post-UTME, or admission in 2025, this updated guide outlines the top 10 highest paying courses in Nigeria based on demand, average salary ranges, and career growth.
1. Medicine and Surgery
Medicine remains Nigeria's most prestigious and best-paying course. Doctors work in government and private hospitals, research, and abroad.
- Average Salary: ₦350,000 – ₦1,200,000 monthly
- Top Universities: UNILAG, UI, OAU, UNN, LASU, UNIBEN
- Career Paths: Surgeon, Physician, Consultant, Medical Researcher
Tip: Students must score high in JAMB and Post-UTME for competitive admission.
2. Petroleum Engineering
Nigeria's oil and gas sector remains a major employer; petroleum engineers are in high demand.
- Average Salary: ₦300,000 – ₦1,000,000 monthly
- Top Universities: FUPRE, UNIBEN, UNI-PORT, OAU, FUT Owerri
- Career Paths: Reservoir Engineer, Drilling Engineer, Production Manager
Tip: Graduates can also work with international energy companies.
3. Law
Law is a respected profession with strong earning potential depending on specialization and experience.
- Average Salary: ₦200,000 – ₦800,000 monthly
- Top Universities: UNILAG, ABU, UI, UNN, LASU
- Career Paths: Corporate Lawyer, Judge, Legal Consultant, Policy Analyst
Tip: Additional certifications and postgraduate degrees raise income potential.
4. Accounting and Finance
Skilled accountants and finance professionals are essential to businesses and often command attractive salaries.
- Average Salary: ₦180,000 – ₦700,000 monthly
- Top Universities: UNILAG, UNIBEN, OAU, Covenant University
- Career Paths: Chartered Accountant, Auditor, Tax Consultant, Financial Analyst
Tip: Membership of ICAN or ACCA significantly improves employability and pay.
5. Computer Science and Software Engineering
The tech industry is expanding rapidly. Developers, data analysts, and cybersecurity experts can earn in naira and foreign currencies.
- Average Salary: ₦250,000 – ₦2,000,000 monthly (depending on skill level)
- Top Universities: FUTA, UNILAG, UNN, Covenant University
- Career Paths: Software Engineer, Web Developer, Data Scientist, Mobile App Developer
Tip: Learn practical programming languages (Python, JavaScript, React) while in school.
6. Pharmacy
Pharmacists play vital roles in healthcare, working in hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, and private practice.
- Average Salary: ₦250,000 – ₦850,000 monthly
- Top Universities: UNIBEN, OAU, UI, UNN, UNILORIN
- Career Paths: Community Pharmacist, Clinical Pharmacist, Research Scientist
Tip: Combining pharmacy training with business knowledge enables opening a private pharmacy.
7. Civil Engineering
Civil engineers are needed for construction, infrastructure, and project management across Nigeria.
- Average Salary: ₦200,000 – ₦900,000 monthly
- Top Universities: FUTA, UNILAG, UNILORIN, OAU, UNI-PORT
- Career Paths: Site Engineer, Structural Engineer, Project Manager
Tip: Project management certifications increase earning potential.
8. Nursing Science
Nurses are highly sought after both locally and internationally. Many Nigerian nurses migrate for better pay.
- Average Salary: ₦180,000 – ₦700,000 monthly
- Top Universities: UNILAG, UI, UNIBEN, UNN, LAUTECH
- Career Paths: Registered Nurse, Midwife, Public Health Nurse, Travel Nurse
Tip: International certifications and experience can lead to higher salaries abroad.
9. Architecture
Architecture combines creativity and engineering, with architects working on building design, urban planning, and interiors.
- Average Salary: ₦200,000 – ₦800,000 monthly
- Top Universities: UNILAG, OAU, Covenant University, FUT Minna
- Career Paths: Architect, Urban Designer, Interior Designer, Landscape Architect
Tip: Master digital design tools such as AutoCAD and Revit.
10. Mass Communication / Digital Media
Graduates with digital media and communication skills can do well in journalism, PR, and digital marketing.
- Average Salary: ₦150,000 – ₦600,000 monthly
- Top Universities: UNILAG, UNN, LASU, Babcock University
- Career Paths: Journalist, PR Executive, Digital Marketer, Brand Strategist
Tip: Combine communication skills with social media, content creation, and graphic design for higher earnings.
Summary Table
| Rank | Course | Average Monthly Pay |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Medicine & Surgery | ₦350,000 – ₦1,200,000 |
| 2 | Petroleum Engineering | ₦300,000 – ₦1,000,000 |
| 3 | Law | ₦200,000 – ₦800,000 |
| 4 | Accounting & Finance | ₦180,000 – ₦700,000 |
| 5 | Computer Science | ₦250,000 – ₦2,000,000 |
| 6 | Pharmacy | ₦250,000 – ₦850,000 |
| 7 | Civil Engineering | ₦200,000 – ₦900,000 |
| 8 | Nursing | ₦180,000 – ₦700,000 |
| 9 | Architecture | ₦200,000 – ₦800,000 |
| 10 | Mass Communication | ₦150,000 – ₦600,000 |
Final Thoughts
Studying any of these courses can position you for a successful career if you combine academic knowledge with practical skills, internships, and continuous learning. Passion, skill, and persistence remain key to long-term success.