Introduction

Science Laboratory Technology (SLT) is one of the most sought-after science-based courses in Nigerian universities and polytechnics due to its versatility, practical nature, and relevance to the modern world. The course trains students to become skilled laboratory technologists capable of performing scientific analysis, laboratory diagnostics, research support, chemical testing, biological analysis, and industrial laboratory operations.

From hospitals to manufacturing industries, research centers, quality control units, and environmental agencies, SLT graduates are essential for ensuring accuracy, safety, quality, and scientific reliability.As Nigeria continues to expand in scientific research, health sciences, industrial production, biotechnology, and environmental management, the demand for professionally trained Science Laboratory Technologists increases yearly. This makes SLT an important career path for students with interest in laboratory sciences, diagnostics, chemicals, biology, microbiology, physics, medical sciences, and general scientific investigation.This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know if you want to study Science Laboratory Technology (SLT) in Nigeria—including JAMB subject combination, O’level requirements, Direct Entry requirements, JAMB cut-off marks, postgraduate studies, career paths, universities offering the course, and the full duration of the programme.

This material is written in a detailed, student-friendly, and professional style to serve as a complete support resource.

1. What is Science Laboratory Technology (SLT)?

Science Laboratory Technology deals with the use of scientific principles, laboratory equipment, and practical methodologies to analyze materials, carry out chemical and biological experiments, assist medical diagnosis, and support scientific research. Unlike pure science courses such as Biology, Chemistry, or Physics, SLT is highly practical and application-based.Students who study SLT are trained to become experts in:

• Medical laboratory procedures
• Industrial chemical analysis
• Microbiological diagnostics
• Environmental and water analysis
• Instrumentation and laboratory management
• Food science analysis
• Forensic testing
• Quality assurance and control
• Research assistance

SLT graduates work in laboratories across hospitals, industries, manufacturing companies, research institutes, pharmaceutical firms, universities, government agencies, and private diagnostic centers.

2. JAMB Subject Combination for Science Laboratory Technology

To study Science Laboratory Technology in any accredited Nigerian university, students must choose four UTME subjects. These subjects determine their eligibility for admission.

Compulsory JAMB Subjects for SLT

1. English Language – (Compulsory for all JAMB candidates)
2. Biology – (Very important for biological-based SLT specialization)
3. Chemistry – (Most important science requirement)
4. Physics or Mathematics – (Either is accepted, but Physics is more commonly required)

Recommended JAMB Subject Combination for SLT

• English Language
• Biology
• Chemistry
• Physics

Most Nigerian universities prefer Biology + Chemistry + Physics.

3. O’Level (WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB) Requirements for Science Laboratory Technology

Students must meet the O’level requirements before they can be considered for admission into SLT.

Core O’Level Subjects Required (Minimum of 5 Credits)

Candidates must have five credit passes in the following subjects:

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

These five subjects must be obtained in not more than two sittings.For candidates applying through Polytechnic ND or College of Education background, the same requirements generally apply.

4. Direct Entry Requirements for Science Laboratory Technology

Direct Entry (DE) applicants can gain admission into 200-level or 300-level depending on the institution.

Direct Entry Options Include:

• OND/ND (Upper Credit) in Science Laboratory Technology
• HND (Lower/Upper Credit) in SLT or related sciences
• NCE (Merit or Distinction) in related fields such as Biology, Chemistry, Physics
• A-Level / IJMB / JUPEB / Cambridge passes in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics

Additional Requirements

• O’level credit passes as listed above
• Transcript may be required by some universities
• For 300-level admission, students must possess HND in SLT

5. JAMB Cut-Off Marks for Science Laboratory Technology (2025)

The cut-off mark for SLT varies by university and sometimes by the competitiveness of the year.

General Cut-Off Marks by Category

• Federal Universities: 180–200
• State Universities: 160–180
• Private Universities: 140–160

Recommended Safe JAMB Score

To increase your admission chances, it is advisable to score 200 and above.

Post-UTME Cut-Off Marks

Some universities may require candidates to score at least 50% in the Post-UTME screening.

6. Duration of the Course (SLT)

The duration of the SLT programme depends on the mode of entry.

For UTME (O’Level) Students:

• 4 years for B.Sc. in Science Laboratory Technology

For Direct Entry Students:

• 3 years (starting from 200-level)
• Some universities offer 2 years for HND holders entering at 300-level

For Polytechnics (ND/HND Route):

• ND: 2 years
• HND: 2 years
• Industrial Training (SIWES): 1 year

7. Universities Offering Science Laboratory Technology in Nigeria

Below is a list of major Nigerian universities that offer SLT:

Federal Universities

• University of Benin (UNIBEN)
• University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT)
• University of Calabar (UNICAL)
• Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO)
• Federal University of Lafia
• Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE)
• Federal University Dutse
• Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria

State Universities

• Rivers State University (RSU)
• Osun State University (UNIOSUN)
• Abia State University (ABSU)
• Plateau State University
• Lagos State University (LASU)
• Ekiti State University (EKSU)

Private Universities

• Madonna University
• Igbinedion University
• Bowen University
• Caleb University
• Achievers University
• Renaissance University

Polytechnics Offering SLT (ND/HND)

• Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH)
• Federal Polytechnic Nekede
• Federal Polytechnic Ado-Ekiti
• Federal Polytechnic Bida
• Kaduna Polytechnic
• The Polytechnic Ibadan

8. Postgraduate Requirements in Science Laboratory Technology

Graduates with a B.Sc. in SLT can pursue postgraduate studies in various science-related fields.

Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) Requirements:

• A minimum of Third Class or HND (Lower Credit) in SLT or related science
• NYSC discharge/exemption certificate
• 5 O’level credits including English, Mathematics and Core Sciences
• Academic transcript from previous institution

PGD programmes typically last 1 year full-time or 2 years part-time.

9. Master’s Degree Requirements (M.Sc. in SLT or Related Fields)

To qualify for a Master’s (M.Sc.) programme in SLT or related fields such as Microbiology, Biochemistry, Medical Laboratory Science, Environmental Biology, or Industrial Chemistry, applicants must have:

Requirements:

• A Bachelor’s degree (B.Sc.) in SLT or related sciences
• Minimum of Second Class Lower (2:2)
• Some universities may accept PGD with good grades
• NYSC certificate
• Transcript

Duration is 1–2 years depending on the university.

10. Doctorate (Ph.D.) Requirements in SLT or Related Sciences

To pursue a PhD, applicants must possess:

Ph.D. Requirements:

• A Master’s degree (M.Sc.) in SLT or related field
• Minimum CGPA of 3.5 out of 5.0 or equivalent
• Statement of research interest
• Academic transcript
• Publications (for research-based universities)

Duration is usually 3–5 years depending on full-time or part-time mode.

11. Areas of Specialization in Science Laboratory Technology

SLT students can specialize in any of the following:

• Microbiology
• Biochemistry
• Physics with Electronics
• Environmental Biology
• Geology
• Chemistry/Biotechnology
• Physiology
• Pathology
• Biomedical Science
• Food Science and Technology

12. Career Opportunities for SLT Graduates

SLT graduates are among the most employable science professionals in Nigeria. Their job prospects cross multiple industries.

Major Career Fields Include:

A. Medical and Healthcare Sector

• Hospital laboratory technologist
• Diagnostic/medical testing laboratory staff
• Clinical research officer
• Blood bank technician
• Public health analyst
• Medical microbiologist assistant

B. Industrial and Manufacturing Companies

• Quality control analyst
• Industrial chemist assistant
• Water treatment technologist
• Food processing and safety officer
• Production laboratory technologist

C. Research Institutions

• Research assistant
• Laboratory technologist
• Scientific analyst
• Academic researcher

D. Environmental and Public Health Agencies

• Environmental laboratory technician
• Waste management analyst
• Pollution monitoring officer
• Water quality analyst

E. Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology Companies

• Pharmaceutical analyst
• Drug quality testing officer
• Microbiological quality control personnel

F. Academic Institutions

• Teaching laboratory technologist
• Practical supervisor
• Demonstrator

G. Private Entrepreneurship

SLT professionals can run private businesses such as:

• Diagnostic labs
• Water testing and treatment services
• Microbial analysis services
• Food safety consulting
• Environmental consulting

13. Why Study Science Laboratory Technology?

SLT is a perfect course if you love science, laboratory procedures, research, and hands-on practical work.

Benefits of Studying SLT:

• High employability
• Versatile career paths
• Increasing demand in healthcare
• Opportunities for postgraduate growth
• Ability to work in hospitals, industries, or private practice
• Strong scientific foundation for advanced studies

14. Challenges of Studying SLT

No field is without challenges. Some include:

• High cost of laboratory materials
• Intensive practical sessions
• Exposure to chemicals and laboratory risks
• Need for accuracy and precision
• Limited awareness of professional difference between SLT and Medical Laboratory Science

15. Tips for SLT Students to Excel

• Practice regularly in the laboratory
• Read widely beyond lecture notes
• Join scientific associations (e.g., NISELT)
• Learn digital laboratory skills
• Build strong safety habits
• Participate in research projects
• Undergo SIWES training seriously

Conclusion

Science Laboratory Technology is an exciting and rewarding course that opens doors to numerous scientific, industrial, and medical careers. From laboratory diagnostics to industrial analysis, SLT professionals serve as the backbone of scientific accuracy, research reliability, and technological innovation.

With the right JAMB subject combination, O’level results, and adequate preparation, students can successfully gain admission into top Nigerian universities and pursue a fulfilling career in laboratory science.If you are passionate about science, research, industry, healthcare, or laboratory investigations, then SLT is a perfect course for you.