Accounting is one of the most popular and competitive courses in Nigeria. It is a discipline that focuses on the systematic recording, analysis, interpretation, and communication of financial information for decision-making. Whether a student plans to become a Chartered Accountant, Auditor, Tax Consultant, Financial Analyst, Banker, or Finance Manager, Accounting provides a strong foundation.
To gain admission into Accounting in any Nigerian university, candidates must understand the JAMB subject combination, O’Level requirements, Direct Entry qualifications, cut-off marks, and other admission guidelines. This comprehensive guide provides all the essential details.
1. What is Accounting as a Course?
Accounting is a management and business-oriented course that teaches students how to measure, process, and communicate financial data. It is the “language of business” and is needed in virtually every sector: government, private organizations, NGOs, and international corporations.Graduates can work in:
- Accounting Firms
- Banks
- Government Financial Agencies
- Audit Companies
- Tax Offices
- Corporate Financial Departments
- Insurance Companies
- Investment and Wealth Management Firms
2. JAMB Subject Combination for Accounting
Candidates seeking admission through UTME must register four (4) subjects in JAMB. The required subject combination for Accounting is:
- English Language (Compulsory for all candidates)
- Mathematics
- Economics
- Any one of the following:
- Government
- Commerce
- Accounting
- Geography
- Business Studies
Recommended and Safest Combination
- Use of English
- Mathematics
- Economics
- Government or Commerce
Most universities require Economics as a core subject, so choosing it increases your chances of admission.
3. WAEC/NECO/NABTEB O’Level Requirements for Accounting
Candidates must possess at least five (5) credit passes in relevant subjects. These credits should be obtained in not more than two sittings.
Mandatory O’Level Subjects
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Economics
Other Accepted Subjects (any two):
- Accounting/Financial Accounting
- Commerce
- Business Methods
- Government
- Civic Education
- Geography
- Marketing
- ICT/Computer Studies
Summary of O’Level Requirement
A minimum of 5 credits including English Language, Mathematics, and Economics, plus any two relevant commercial or social science subjects.
Students with Financial Accounting in O’Level have an added advantage but it is not compulsory.
4. Direct Entry (DE) Requirements for Accounting
Students who wish to gain admission through Direct Entry (200 level) must meet the following requirements:
A. Acceptable DE Qualifications
- A-Level passes in Economics and any one of Mathematics, Government, Accounting, or Business Management.
- NCE with merit in relevant subjects.
- OND (Upper Credit)in:
- Accounting
- Banking & Finance
- Business Administration
- Financial Studies
- HND (Lower or Upper Credit) in relevant business courses (may enter 300 level in some universities).
- ICAN ATS (Foundation Level) may also be accepted by some institutions.
B. Key Direct Entry Subjects
To be considered, candidates must have strong backgrounds in:
- Economics
- Accounting
- Business Studies
- Mathematics
- Banking and Finance
Some universities consider ICAN, ANAN, ATS, and other professional certifications as added advantages.
5. JAMB Cut-Off Marks for Accounting
Accounting is a competitive course, so the cut-off mark varies by institution. However, here are general guidelines.
General JAMB Cut-Off Marks
- Minimum JAMB score: 160–180 (depending on the university)
- Highly competitive universities: 200–250+
- Federal universities: typically 220+
- State universities: 180–200
- Private universities: 160–180
Post-UTME Screening Scores
In addition to JAMB, universities use:
- Post-UTME exams
- O’Level grades
- Screening assessments
The final admission cut-off is often determined by the aggregate score.
6. Universities Offering Accounting in Nigeria
Nearly all Nigerian universities offer Accounting, but here are the major ones categorized for easier reference.
A. Federal Universities
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- University of Ibadan (UI)
- University of Calabar (UNICAL)
- University of Benin (UNIBEN)
- University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU Zaria)
- University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN)
- Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO) – Accounting Technology
- Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE)
- Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK)
B. State Universities
- Lagos State University (LASU)
- Delta State University (DELSU)
- Ekiti State University (EKSU)
- Abia State University (ABSU)
- Osun State University (UNIOSUN)
- Rivers State University (RSU)
- Imo State University (IMSU)
- Benue State University (BSU)
C. Private Universities
- Covenant University
- Babcock University
- Bowen University
- Afe Babalola University
- Redeemers University
- Igbinedion University
- Caleb University
Regardless of the university you choose, ensure that the program is accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC).
7. Career Opportunities for Accounting Graduates
Accounting is one of the most versatile courses. Graduates can work in nearly every sector.
Key Career Paths Include:
- Chartered Accountant
- Tax Auditor
- Financial Analyst
- Budget Officer
- Forensic Accountant
- Internal Auditor
- Loan/Credit Analyst
- Investment Banker
- Payroll Manager
- Cost Controller
- Stockbroker
Professional Certifications to Consider
After graduation, students can advance through:
- ICAN (Chartered Accountant)
- ACCA (International Certified Accountant)
- ANAN
- CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst)
- CIPM
- CISA (Information Systems Auditor)
- CITN (Taxation)
These certifications drastically increase job opportunities both within and outside Nigeria.
8. Postgraduate Requirements for Accounting
Students who wish to advance academically can pursue postgraduate studies in Accounting or related disciplines.
A. Available Postgraduate Degrees
- Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) in Accounting
- Master’s (M.Sc.) in Accounting
- MBA (Master of Business Administration)
- M.Phil in Accounting
- Ph.D in Accounting or Finance
B. Admission Requirements for Postgraduate Degrees
1. Postgraduate Diploma (PGD)
- A bachelor’s degree (3rd class or pass) in Accounting or related fields
- HND (Lower Credit or above)
2. Master’s Degree (M.Sc or MBA)
- Bachelor’s degree with a minimum of Second Class Lower (2:2)
- NYSC discharge/exemption certificate
- Transcript from previous institutions
3. Ph.D Requirements
- Master’s degree with minimum 60% or B grade
- Strong research background
- Proposal and entrance interview
Postgraduate studies prepare graduates for academic, leadership, and advanced professional roles.
9. Tips for Scoring High in JAMB for Accounting
Since Accounting is competitive, students must aim high. Here are effective tips:
- Target a JAMB score of 230–270+ for federal universities.
- Use past questions for consistent practice.
- Focus on Mathematics and Economics because they carry heavy weighting.
- Start reading early—don’t wait for the exam timetable.
- Register your subjects correctly to avoid automatic disqualification.
- Prepare well for Post-UTME, especially universities that conduct exams.
- Get your O’Level results ready, preferably at one sitting.
10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is Accounting a difficult course?
It can be demanding because it involves calculations, logic, and analysis, but with commitment, students perform well.
2. Must I take Commerce in O’Level to study Accounting?
No. It is helpful but not compulsory.
3. Can a science student switch to Accounting?
Yes, if they have required subjects like Mathematics and English and pass JAMB with the correct subject combination.
4. What is the highest-paying field in Accounting?
Investment banking, auditing, forensic accounting, and tax consulting.
Here are career opportunities for Accounting graduates, explained clearly and grouped for easy understanding:
Career Opportunities for Accounting Graduates
Accounting is one of the most versatile and employable fields globally. Graduates can work in almost every industry—business, finance, government, education, health, oil and gas, NGOs, and even tech. Below are the major career paths available:
1. Professional Accounting Careers
These are core careers directly related to accounting:
✔️ Chartered Accountant (CA) / Chartered Certified Accountant (ACCA)
Work involves auditing, financial reporting, taxation, and advisory services.
Qualified accountants are in high demand in firms like KPMG, PWC, Deloitte, EY, etc.
✔️ Auditor (Internal or External)
Auditors check financial records for accuracy and compliance.
- Internal auditors work inside an organization
- External auditors work with audit firms
✔️ Tax Consultant
Helps individuals and companies manage taxes, comply with tax laws, and plan legally to reduce tax burdens.
✔️ Forensic Accountant
Investigates fraud, corruption, money laundering, and financial crimes.
Often works with EFCC, ICPC, police, banks, and insurance companies.
✔️ Management Accountant
Focuses on budgeting, cost management, and financial planning inside a company.
✔️ Financial Accountant
Prepares financial statements, manages company accounts, and ensures compliance with regulations.
2. Banking and Finance Careers
Accounting graduates fit perfectly into the finance sector:
✔️ Banker (Commercial or Investment Banking)
Roles include customer service, credit analysis, loans, risk management, and treasury operations.
✔️ Financial Analyst
Analyzes financial data to help organizations make investment decisions.
✔️ Credit Analyst
Assesses whether individuals or businesses qualify for loans.
✔️ Risk Analyst
Identifies financial risks and provides solutions to reduce losses.
✔️ Stockbroker / Portfolio Manager
Manages investments and helps clients buy and sell securities.
3. Business & Corporate Careers
Accounting graduates are valuable in business organizations:
✔️ Business Consultant
Provides advice on finance, operations, growth, and strategy.
✔️ Compliance Officer
Ensures that organizations follow laws, regulations, and internal policies.
✔️ Procurement/Inventory Manager
Oversees purchasing, stock control, and managing cost efficiency.
✔️ Cost Controller
Monitors and reduces manufacturing, operational, and administrative costs.
✔️ Payroll Manager
Manages employee salaries, benefits, and tax deductions.
4. Government and Public Sector Careers
Opportunities exist in federal, state, and local government offices:
✔️ Government Accountant / Treasury Officer
Manages public funds, budgets, and accounts.
✔️ Revenue Officer
Works with agencies like FIRS, State IRS, Customs, or Immigration to compute and collect revenue.
✔️ Budget Analyst
Helps prepare government budgets and monitors spending.
5. Tech and Data-Driven Careers
Accounting skills translate well into tech roles:
✔️ Data Analyst
Uses data to solve business problems (with extra training in Excel, SQL, or Python).
✔️ Financial Software Specialist
Works with accounting tools like SAP, QuickBooks, Oracle, Sage, and ERP systems.
✔️ FinTech Analyst
Works in tech companies offering financial services (Flutterwave, Paystack, OPay, etc.)
6. Entrepreneurship Opportunities
Accounting graduates can start their own businesses:
✔️ Accounting/Bookkeeping Services
Helping SMEs manage their financial records.
✔️ Tax Filing and Business Registration Services
Registering businesses with CAC, assisting with tax filings, and financial planning.
✔️ Financial Coaching
Teaching people how to budget, save, and invest wisely.
✔️ Auditing Firm
With the right certifications, you can create your own audit or consultancy firm.
7. Teaching and Academic Careers
Opportunities include:
✔️ Lecturer in Universities or Polytechnics
Requires postgraduate qualifications (M.Sc, PhD, or professional qualifications).
✔️ Secondary School Teacher
Teaches Accounting, Commerce, or Business Studies.
✔️ Researcher
Works with institutions, think-tanks, or NGOs.
8. International Career Possibilities
Accounting is globally recognized, especially with certifications like:
- ACCA
- ICAN
- CIMA
- CIPFA
- CPA (for USA)
- CGA (Canada)
These open doors to jobs abroad in auditing, finance, banking, and consulting.
Final Key Takeaways
- Accounting offers one of the widest career opportunities compared to many other courses.
- Graduates can work in banks, audit firms, oil and gas, government parastatals, tech companies, NGOs, and more.
- Professional certifications (ICAN, ACCA, CFA) increase employability and salary.
- With experience and the right skills, accounting graduates can rise to top positions like CFO, Financial Director, Auditor-General, or CEO.
Conclusion
Studying Accounting in Nigeria requires proper understanding of the JAMB subject combinations, O’Level requirements, Direct Entry qualifications, cut-off marks, and university choices. As a competitive course, students must aim for high scores and ensure their subject combination aligns with the requirements of their preferred universities.Accounting remains one of the most stable, respected, and financially rewarding careers worldwide. With additional professional certifications, graduates can work in multinational organizations, financial institutions, consultancies, government agencies, and international establishments.
