INTRODUCTION

Genetics and Biotechnology is one of the most dynamic, innovative, and fast-growing scientific disciplines in the world. In Nigeria and globally, biotechnology has become the backbone of modern agriculture, disease diagnosis, vaccine development, forensic science, bioinformatics, environmental conservation, pharmaceutical research, and industrial manufacturing. Genetics and Biotechnology explores the molecular basis of life—how genes function, how traits are inherited, and how biological systems can be manipulated to solve complex human problems.With rapid advancements in gene editing technologies like CRISPR-Cas9, DNA sequencing, personalized medicine, and genetic engineering, there is an increasing demand for professionals who understand how living systems can be improved or modified for human benefit. For students who love Biology, Laboratory Science, Research, Agriculture, Medicine, or Innovation, Genetics and Biotechnology is a highly rewarding career path.If you are planning to study Genetics & Biotechnology in any Nigerian university, this guide will give you everything you need to know, including:

• JAMB subject combination for Genetics and Biotechnology
• O’Level (WAEC/NECO/NABTEB) requirements
• Direct Entry (DE) requirements
• Cut-off marks
• Course duration
• Postgraduate requirements (PGD, MSc, PhD)
• What you need to become a doctor of biotechnology/genetics
• List of accredited Nigerian universities offering the course
• Tuition expectations
• Career opportunities and salary expectations
• Skills required to excel in the field
• And much more…

Let’s begin.

1. JAMB SUBJECT COMBINATION FOR GENETICS AND BIOTECHNOLOGY

To study Genetics and Biotechnology at any Nigerian university, JAMB requires a specific set of subjects. These subjects are designed to reflect your scientific readiness for the program.

Compulsory JAMB Subjects:

1. English Language – (Compulsory for all courses)
2. Biology
3. Chemistry
4. Physics or Mathematics

Explanation of Each Subject:

• Biology: This is the foundation of the course, as Genetics and Biotechnology revolve heavily around life sciences, cell biology, DNA structure, and molecular biology.
• Chemistry: Crucial for laboratory experiments, biochemistry, molecular synthesis, enzymes, and metabolic processes.
• Physics or Mathematics: Some universities accept Mathematics to support statistical genetics, bioinformatics, and computational biology.

JAMB UTME Score Recommendation:

Although the general minimum UTME score is 180, candidates aiming for competitive schools should target the following:

• Competitive Universities: 220 – 260+
• Moderately Competitive Schools: 200 – 220
• Less Competitive Schools: 180 – 200

Aim high because admission into science departments is based on merit, especially in universities known for strong science programs.

2. O’LEVEL (WAEC, NECO, NABTEB) REQUIREMENTS FOR GENETICS AND BIOTECHNOLOGY

To study Genetics and Biotechnology, you need at least five (5) credit passes in relevant science subjects.

Compulsory O’Level Subjects:

You must have credits in the following:

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

Additional Acceptable Subjects:

Some universities may accept one or two of the following as added subjects:

• Agricultural Science
• Further Mathematics
• Geography
• Health Science
• Computer Studies
• Integrated Science

Important Notes:

• The credits must be obtained in not more than two sittings.
• A strong background in Biology and Chemistry is extremely important.
• Students coming from arts or commercial background cannot study this course without first switching through remedial programs.

3. DIRECT ENTRY REQUIREMENTS FOR GENETICS AND BIOTECHNOLOGY

Direct Entry applicants typically enter into 200 level or 300 level, depending on their qualifications.

Acceptable Direct Entry Qualifications:

1. A-Level / IJMB / Cambridge / JUPEBin:
   • Biology
   • Chemistry
   • Physics or Mathematics
     With good grades (A–C).
2. ND (National Diploma) in related fieldssuch as:
   • Science Laboratory Technology (SLT)
   • Biotechnology
   • Microbiology
   • Biochemistry
   • Environmental Science
   • Medical Laboratory Science
   ND must be Lower Credit or Upper Credit.
3. HND in relevant science fields
   Candidates with HND may be admitted into 300 Level in some universities.
4. NCE in relevant science subjects.
5. B.Sc. in related disciplinesStudents who have completed degrees in Biology, Botany, Zoology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, or Microbiology may be admitted into advanced levels.

4. JAMB CUT-OFF MARK FOR GENETICS AND BIOTECHNOLOGY

There is no single national cut-off mark for all universities, but most institutions fall within the range below.

General Cut-Off Mark:

180 – 200 (minimum)

Competitive Universities (Higher Cut-Off):

220 – 250+These include universities with strong science programs such as:

• University of Calabar (UNICAL)
• University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN)
• University of Lagos (UNILAG)
• University of Ibadan (UI)
• University of Uyo (UNIUYO)
• Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta (FUNAAB)

Moderate Cut-Off Universities:

200 – 220

Less Competitive Universities:

180 – 200Students should always aim for higher scores to increase admission chances.

5. COURSE DURATION

The duration for Genetics and Biotechnology differs slightly depending on the entry level.

UTME Candidates:

4 years

Direct Entry Candidates:

3 years (if admitted into 200 level)

HND or Higher Qualification Holders:

2 – 3 years (depending on the university’s policy)

6. UNIVERSITIES OFFERING GENETICS AND BIOTECHNOLOGY IN NIGERIA

Not all Nigerian universities offer this specialized course. Below is a comprehensive list of institutions offering Genetics & Biotechnology or its close equivalents.

Federal Universities Offering the Course:

1. University of Calabar (UNICAL) – most popular for Genetics & Biotechnology
2. Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO)
3. University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) – Biological Sciences with Genetics/Biotech options
4. University of Ibadan (UI) – Biotechnology under Botany/Microbiology
5. Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta (FUNAAB)
6. University of Uyo (UNIUYO)
7. Federal University, Lafia
8. Federal University, Dutse
9. Federal University, Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE)

State Universities Offering Related Programs:

1. Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU)
2. Cross River University of Technology (CRUTECH)
3. Imo State University (IMSU)
4. Abia State University (ABSU)
5. Lagos State University (LASU) – Biological Sciences specialization
6. Ekiti State University (EKSU)

Private Universities Offering Biotechnology:

1. Covenant University
2. Afe Babalola University (ABUAD)
3. Bowen University
4. Babcock University
5. Madonna University
6. Salem University

Important Note:

Some universities name the program differently such as:

• Molecular Biology
• Cell Biology & Genetics
• Applied Genetics
• Biotechnology
• Plant/Animal Biotechnology

All these programs fall under the broader umbrella of Genetics & Biotechnology.

7. POSTGRADUATE REQUIREMENTS

Graduates of Genetics and Biotechnology may proceed for higher studies. Below are the requirements for PGD, MSc, and PhD.

A. POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMA (PGD) IN BIOTECHNOLOGY

Requirements:

• A Bachelor’s degree (B.Sc.) in any biological or chemical science with Third Class or Pass.
• HND holders in related disciplines with Upper Credit or Lower Credit.

Duration:

• 12 – 18 months

B. MASTER’S DEGREE (M.Sc.) IN GENETICS / BIOTECHNOLOGY

Requirements:

• A good B.Sc. with at least Second Class Lower (2.2)in:
  • Genetics
  • Biotechnology
  • Microbiology
  • Biochemistry
  • Molecular Biology
  • Botany or Zoology
• Some universities require:
  • Transcript
  • NYSC discharge certificate
  • Statement of purpose

Duration:

• 1 – 2 years for full time
• 2 – 3 years for part time

C. DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY (PhD) IN GENETICS/BIOTECHNOLOGY

Requirements:

• A Master’s degree (M.Sc.) in Genetics, Biotechnology, or closely related field.
• Minimum CGPA often 4.0/5.0 depending on the university.
• Research proposal, interview, and publication requirements.

Duration:

• 3 – 5 years

8. WHAT YOU NEED TO BECOME A BIOTECHNOLOGY DOCTOR (PhD / Research Scientist)

To become an advanced professional such as:

• Genetics Researcher
• Molecular Biologist
• Bioinformatician
• Biomedical Scientist
• Forensic Geneticist
• Plant/Animal Genetic Engineer

You need:

1. B.Sc. in Genetics & Biotechnology
2. M.Sc. in Biotechnology or Molecular Biology
3. Ph.D. in Genetics or a specialized field
4. Published research papers
5. Advanced laboratory training
6. Internships and research experience

Those who want to work as medical geneticists or clinical laboratory experts may require additional certifications from:

• Medical Laboratory Science Council (MLSCN)
• International Genetics Certification Bodies

9. CAREER OPPORTUNITIES FOR GRADUATES OF GENETICS AND BIOTECHNOLOGY

Graduates of Genetics and Biotechnology have one of the widest job opportunities in science and technology.Below is a detailed breakdown of potential careers.

A. HEALTHCARE AND MEDICAL CAREERS

1. Medical Geneticist
2. Clinical Laboratory Scientist
3. Biomedical Researcher
4. Vaccine Development Scientist
5. Genetic Counselor
6. Pharmaceutical Scientist
7. Public Health Laboratory Analyst

B. AGRICULTURE AND FOOD INDUSTRY

1. Plant Breeding and Genetic Engineering
2. Livestock Genetic Improvement Specialist
3. Agricultural Biotechnologist
4. Food and Beverage Quality Control Officer
5. Biofertilizer and Biopesticide Developer

C. FORENSICS AND LAW ENFORCEMENT

1. Forensic DNA Analyst
2. Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) Genetic Specialist
3. Criminal Identification and DNA Profiling

D. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE

1. Environmental Biotechnologist
2. Waste Management Scientist
3. Bioremediation Specialist
4. Ecological Conservation Expert

E. INDUSTRIAL & MANUFACTURING ROLES

1. Industrial Microbiologist
2. Bioprocess Engineer
3. Production Scientist (Enzymes, Antibiotics, Biofuel)
4. Quality Assurance/Quality Control Scientist

F. TECHNOLOGY AND COMPUTATIONAL FIELDS

1. Bioinformatician
2. Data Analyst (Biological Data)
3. Genomic Software Developer
4. AI-based Biological Modeling Specialist

G. EDUCATION & RESEARCH

1. University Lecturer
2. Research Scientist
3. Laboratory Technologist
4. Policy Advisor in Science and Technology

H. ENTREPRENEURIAL OPPORTUNITIES

1. Biotechnology Startups
2. Laboratory Equipment Supply
3. Genetics Consulting
4. Organic Agriculture and Tissue Culture Ventures

10. KEY SKILLS NEEDED TO SUCCEED IN GENETICS AND BIOTECHNOLOGY

Students who want to excel must develop the following skills:

• Strong laboratory skills
• DNA and protein analysis
• Molecular biology techniques
• Problem-solving and analytical skills
• Computer literacy and bioinformatics
• Scientific writing and documentation
• Critical thinking
• Statistical analysis
• Ability to work in teams
• Creativity and innovation

11. SALARY EXPECTATIONS FOR BIOTECHNOLOGY PROFESSIONALS

In Nigeria:

• Entry-Level: ₦80,000 – ₦150,000 monthly
• Mid-Level: ₦150,000 – ₦350,000 monthly
• Senior-Level Researchers: ₦400,000 – ₦1,000,000+ monthly
• Private Sector/International Organizations: ₦1,000,000 – ₦2,500,000 monthly

International Salaries:

• USA: $60,000 – $150,000/year
• UK: £30,000 – £90,000/year
• Canada: $45,000 – $120,000/year

Biotechnology experts are highly sought-after worldwide.

12. WHY STUDY GENETICS AND BIOTECHNOLOGY?

Here are strong reasons to choose this course:

• High global demand for biotech professionals
• Opportunity to change the world through science
• High-paying and rewarding career paths
• Opportunities to work in health, agriculture, forensics, environment, and tech
• Possibility of becoming a research scientist abroad
• Flexibility to move into medicine, pharmacy, or industrial roles

If you enjoy Biology, Chemistry, Research, and Innovation, this course will suit you perfectly.

CONCLUSION

Genetics and Biotechnology is one of the most futuristic and impactful fields of science available today. With career opportunities in medicine, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, forensic science, environmental conservation, and biotechnology industries, students who pursue this course have a bright future.To study Genetics and Biotechnology in Nigeria, you must meet the following key requirements:

• JAMB Subjects: English, Biology, Chemistry, Physics/Mathematics
• O’Level: Credits in English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics
• Direct Entry: A-Level, IJMB, ND, HND, or B.Sc. in related fields
• Cut-Off Mark: Minimum 180–200
• Duration: 4 years (UTME), 3 years (DE)
• Universities: UNICAL, UNN, FUTO, FUNAAB, UNIUYO, UI, and others
• Opportunities: Research, medicine, agriculture, forensics, environment, industry, and more

Studying Genetics & Biotechnology is a wise investment in a future influenced by science, technology, and innovation.