If you want to study Nursing in Nigeria, it’s important to choose the right subjects in your WAEC (or NECO) exam.
Nursing is a science-based course, so your subjects must show that you are strong in science.
Here are the 9 WAEC subjects you should register for if you want to study Nursing:
1. English Language
Very Important!
Every student must pass English because it is a general requirement for all courses, including Nursing.
2. Mathematics
Also very important.
Nursing requires calculation skills, especially when it comes to drug dosage, measurement, and patient data.
3. Biology
Core subject for Nursing.
You must understand human body systems, diseases, and how the body reacts to treatments.
4. Chemistry
Very important.
Chemistry is needed to understand drugs, blood reactions, and chemical processes in the body.
5. Physics
Important too.
Physics is required because nurses use machines like X-rays, blood pressure monitors, and understand body mechanisms.
6. Health Science (or Health Education)
Some schools accept Health Science if you offer it.
It helps you understand health issues, hygiene, diseases, and first aid.
7. Agricultural Science
If available, Agricultural Science can support your science background.
Some universities accept it as a supporting science subject.
8. Civic Education
Civic Education is a compulsory subject for WAEC in Nigeria, even though it is not directly related to Nursing.
9. One Other Subject (like Economics, Geography, or a Nigerian Language)
You can add any other subject to complete your nine subjects.
Some schools ask for a Nigerian language (like Igbo, Yoruba, or Hausa) but it is not compulsory for Nursing.
Summary Table
| Subject | Importance |
|---|---|
| English Language | Compulsory |
| Mathematics | Compulsory |
| Biology | Very Important |
| Chemistry | Very Important |
| Physics | Important |
| Health Science | Supportive |
| Agricultural Science | Supportive |
| Civic Education | Compulsory for WAEC |
| Any Other Subject (e.g. Economics, Yoruba) | To complete 9 subjects |
Important Things to Know
At least 5 credits in English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics are compulsory for admission into Nursing in any Nigerian university or school of nursing.
You must get these 5 credits in not more than two sittings (WAEC, NECO, or combined WAEC and NECO).
Some universities are very strict and prefer candidates who have all 5 credits in one sitting.
Conclusion
If you are dreaming of becoming a nurse, make sure you prepare well for these 9 WAEC subjects.
Focus especially on your English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics — these are the key subjects that universities and nursing schools will check first.
Good luck on your journey to becoming a nurse.
