• O’Level requirements
• Direct Entry requirements
• JAMB cut-off marks
• Duration
• Master’s & Doctoral requirements
• Postgraduate pathways
• Universities offering Human Physiology in Nigeria
• Career opportunities, and much more.

Human Physiology is one of the cornerstone courses in the medical and biological sciences. It sits at the heart of understanding the human body—how it functions, how its organs communicate, how diseases alter normal processes, and how drugs or therapies restore balance. For students with a passion for biomedical science, health research, medicine, or allied health fields, Human Physiology offers an exciting academic path and a wide range of career opportunities.This comprehensive publication covers everything you need to know about studying Human Physiology in Nigeria: the official JAMB subject combination, O’Level requirements, Direct Entry pathway, cut-off marks, universities that offer the course, the duration, and the complete academic route up to Master’s and PhD levels, including career prospects after graduation.Let’s begin from the most important part—your JAMB subjects.

1. JAMB SUBJECT COMBINATION FOR HUMAN PHYSIOLOGY

To study Human Physiology in any Nigerian university, JAMB requires a specific combination of subjects. These subjects are carefully selected to ensure that you have the scientific foundation needed for the program.

Correct JAMB Subject Combination for Human Physiology

1. English Language (Compulsory for all candidates)
2. Biology
3. Chemistry
4. Physics

This combination aligns with the requirements for all medical and biological science programs.

Why These Subjects?

• Biology introduces you to life processes, cells, tissues, and organisms—fundamental for Physiology.
• Chemistry is key for understanding biochemical processes, metabolism, molecular interactions, and drug action.
• Physics supports your understanding of body mechanics, electrical activities (like nerve impulses), and fluid dynamics (such as blood flow).
• English is compulsory for communication, comprehension, and scientific writing.

Important Notes

• You MUST score well in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, because they determine your departmental competition strength.
• Most universities give strong priority to your science subject grades.

2. O’LEVEL REQUIREMENTS FOR HUMAN PHYSIOLOGY

To study Human Physiology, you must satisfy the Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination (SSCE) requirements. Accepted exams include WAEC, NECO, GCE, or NABTEB.

O’Level Subjects Required (Five Credits Minimum)

You must have at least five (5) credit passes in the following subjects:

1. English Language
2. Mathematics
3. Biology
4. Chemistry
5. Physics

These credits must be obtained in not more than two (2) sittings.

Additional Notes

• Some universities require the five credits in one sitting for highly competitive medical science courses.
• Agricultural Science is not accepted in place of Biology.
• Further Mathematics is not compulsory but can strengthen your application.

3. DIRECT ENTRY (DE) REQUIREMENTS FOR HUMAN PHYSIOLOGY

For candidates who want to enter through Direct Entry into 200 Level, the following qualifications are accepted:

A. A-Level Requirements

Candidates must have:

• A-Level passes in Biology/Zoology, Chemistry, and Physics, OR
• A-Level passes in Biology and Chemistry, with Physics at the O’Level.

B. ND/HND Requirements

A National Diploma (ND) or Higher National Diploma (HND) in closely related fields such as:

• Science Laboratory Technology (SLT)
• Biology/Microbiology
• Physiology
• Biochemistry
• Anatomy
• Nursing Science

Candidates must have at least Upper Credit for ND or Lower Credit for HND.

C. NCE Requirements

Not commonly accepted for medical science courses.

D. Degree Holders

A Bachelor’s degree (B.Sc.) in fields like:

• Biology
• Zoology
• Biochemistry
• Anatomy
• Microbiology
  Provides a strong chance of admission, especially with Second Class Upper and above.

4. JAMB CUT-OFF MARKS FOR HUMAN PHYSIOLOGY

Admission into Human Physiology varies by university, but the cut-off generally depends on:

• The institution type (Federal, State, Private)
• The number of applicants
• Available departmental slots

Below is the typical cut-off range across Nigeria.

General JAMB Cut-Off Mark

• 180 – 200 is the minimum nationwide benchmark.

Federal Universities Cut-Off

Most federal universities require:

• 200 – 220 or above

Because Human Physiology is a medical science course, competition is high.

State Universities Cut-Off

Most state universities accept candidates with:

• 180 – 200

Private Universities Cut-Off

Most private schools accept:

• 160 – 180

However:

To stand a good chance, aim for 250+, especially in federal universities.

5. POST UTME REQUIREMENTS

After JAMB, universities conduct a Post UTME screening. Many schools use:

• Computer-Based Test (CBT), OR
• Screening of O’Level results only

Typical subjects in CBT include:

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Physics
• English

To be competitive, candidates should aim for 70% and above in the Post UTME.

6. DURATION OF THE COURSE

Human Physiology is typically a 4-year program leading to:

Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Human Physiology

However:

• Some universities run a 5-year program under the College of Medicine system.
• Direct Entry students often start from 200 Level and spend 3 years.

7. UNIVERSITIES OFFERING HUMAN PHYSIOLOGY IN NIGERIA

Below is a list of major institutions where you can study Human Physiology.

Federal Universities

1. University of Lagos (UNILAG)
2. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
3. University of Ibadan (UI)
4. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
5. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
6. University of Benin (UNIBEN)
7. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU Zaria)
8. University of Jos (UNIJOS)
9. Bayero University Kano (BUK)
10. University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT)
11. Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK)
12. Usman Dan Fodio University (UDUSOK)
13. Federal University of Technology (Some departments run Physiology-related programs)

State Universities

1. Lagos State University (LASU)
2. Ekiti State University (EKSU)
3. Imo State University (IMSU)
4. Abia State University (ABSU)
5. Delta State University (DELSU)
6. Rivers State University (RSU)
7. Kaduna State University (KASU)
8. Benue State University (BSU)
9. Osun State University (UNIOSUN)

Private Universities

Many private universities offer Physiology under their College of Medicine, including:

1. Babcock University
2. Bowen University
3. Madonna University
4. Igbinedion University
5. Afe Babalola University
6. Redeemer’s University
7. Lead City University

8. COURSE CONTENT (WHAT YOU WILL STUDY)

Human Physiology covers how the human body works. Below are major courses you will encounter:

Year 1–2 (Basic Sciences)

• General Biology
• General Chemistry
• Organic Chemistry
• Biochemistry
• General Physics
• General Anatomy
• Histology
• Introductory Physiology
• Mathematics & Statistics

Year 3–4 (Core Physiology Courses)

• Cardiovascular Physiology
• Respiratory Physiology
• Neurophysiology
• Endocrinology
• Reproductive Physiology
• Renal Physiology
• Gastrointestinal Physiology
• Blood Physiology
• Pathophysiology
• Pharmacology
• Medical Instrumentation
• Cell Physiology
• Biostatistics

Final Year

• Research Project
• Seminar Presentation
• Laboratory Techniques
• Clinical Correlations

9. POSTGRADUATE PATHWAY AFTER B.SC. IN HUMAN PHYSIOLOGY

Graduates of Human Physiology have clear academic routes for specialization.

A. Postgraduate Diploma (PGD)

A PGD is available for students who wish to transition into related fields such as:

• Pharmacology
• Public Health
• Anatomy
• Biotechnology
• Medical Laboratory Science
• Biomedical Engineering

Duration:

• 1 year (full time)
• 2 years (part time)

10. MASTER’S DEGREE (M.Sc.) REQUIREMENTS

To be admitted into an MSc program in Physiology or related fields, candidates need:

Requirements

1. A B.Sc. degree in Physiologyor related courses such as
   • Anatomy
   • Biochemistry
   • Biological Sciences
   • Pharmacology
   • Medical Laboratory Science
2. A minimum of Second Class Lower (2:2).

Duration

• 1–2 years (depending on the school)

Available MSc Options

• M.Sc. in Human Physiology
• M.Sc. Neurophysiology
• M.Sc. Endocrinology
• M.Sc. Reproductive Physiology
• M.Sc. Environmental Physiology
• M.Sc. Cardiovascular Physiology

11. DOCTORAL DEGREE (PhD) REQUIREMENTS

A PhD in Physiology offers advanced research opportunities.

Requirements

1. A master’s degree (M.Sc.) in Physiology or a closely related field.
2. A thesis proposal demonstrating research capability.
3. Academic transcripts and recommendation letters.

Duration

• 3–5 years

Specializations

• Neurophysiology
• Cardiovascular Physiology
• Respiratory Physiology
• Endocrine Physiology
• Sports Physiology
• Comparative Physiology
• Pathophysiology

12. PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATIONS AVAILABLE TO PHYSIOLOGY GRADUATES

Graduate physiologists can pursue additional certifications such as:

• Certified Public Health Analyst (CPHA)
• Clinical Research Certification
• Laboratory Management Certification
• Biomedical Instrumentation Training
• Health Informatics Certification
• Health Safety & Environment (HSE 1–3)
• First Aid Certification

These significantly boost employability.

13. CAREER OPPORTUNITIES FOR HUMAN PHYSIOLOGY GRADUATES

Human Physiology is versatile, offering opportunities in multiple industries.

A. Healthcare Sector

• Clinical Physiologist
• Cardiac Physiologist
• Neurophysiologist
• Respiratory Technologist
• Sleep Technologist
• Reproductive Health Specialist
• Clinical Research Assistant

B. Academic & Research Institutions

• University Lecturer
• Laboratory Scientist
• Research Scientist
• Biomedical Instructor

C. Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology Sector

• Drug Research and Development
• Quality Control Officer
• Pharmacovigilance Officer
• Medical Sales Representative
• Product Development Officer

D. Public Health and Government Agencies

• Epidemiologist (with additional training)
• Public Health Officer
• Health Policy Analyst
• Health Education Specialist

E. Medical Technology & Engineering

• Biomedical Equipment Specialist
• Medical Device Sales and Support
• Health Technology Analyst

F. Fitness and Sports Industry

• Sports Physiologist
• Human Performance Specialist
• Fitness Consultant

G. NGOs & International Organizations

• Research Consultant
• Health Advocacy Coordinator

14. SALARY EXPECTATIONS FOR PHYSIOLOGY GRADUATES IN NIGERIA

Salary varies depending on place of employment.

Entry Level

₦70,000 – ₦150,000 monthly

Mid-Level (Research Institutions / Teaching Hospitals)

₦180,000 – ₦300,000 monthly

Senior Level (Universities, NGOs, Advanced Research)

₦350,000 – ₦700,000 monthly

Private Sector (Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology Companies)

₦200,000 – ₦500,000 monthly

15. IS HUMAN PHYSIOLOGY A GOOD COURSE?

Absolutely. Human Physiology is:

• Highly respected
• Scientifically enriching
• A gateway to many advanced health careers
• Essential for medical research
• Needed globally

It is also one of the best foundational courses for students interested in:

• Medicine
• Nursing
• Pharmacology
• Physiotherapy
• Dentistry
• Biomedical engineering
• Neuroscience

Many physiologists later pursue MBBS programs through Direct Entry or Accelerated Medical Programs abroad.

CONCLUSION

Human Physiology is a dynamic, intellectually stimulating, and career-rich program. Its emphasis on understanding how the human body works makes it central to healthcare, biomedical research, and technological innovation.With the right:

• JAMB subject combination
• O’Level results
• Strong UTME & Post UTME scores
• Clear academic goals

You can build a successful future in medicine, research, biotechnology, public health, and many other fields.