Complete List of Law Courses Offered in Nigerian Universities

Law Courses Offered in Nigerian Universities – If you’ve been wondering about pursuing a career in law and you’re curious about the law courses offered in Nigerian universities, then you’re in the right place! Let’s delve into the heart of this fascinating topic.

This article provides an in-depth overview of the law courses on offer, delving into their uniqueness, breadth, and depth.

What is a Law Course?

A law course is an educational program or series of classes that focuses on the study of law and legal principles. It is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the legal system, its principles, and its application in various areas of society.

Law courses are typically offered at universities, law schools, and other educational institutions. They are often part of undergraduate or graduate programs in law, and they may also be offered as standalone courses or as part of interdisciplinary programs.

Law courses cover a wide range of topics, including constitutional law, criminal law, civil law, contract law, property law, international law, administrative law, and more. Students learn about legal concepts, theories, and principles, as well as the methods and procedures used in legal research and analysis.

Students who pursue any of the courses related to law are eligible for employment within the law industry.

It is important to note that Law itself, is a course and also a viable academic discipline with promising career prospects, despite its competitiveness.

By pursuing any of the Law related courses listed below. You can distinguish yourself from the population of students enrolling for Law as a discipline. 

These courses are distinguished from Law in that they concentrate on specialized areas within the broader field of Law.

• Business and Legal Studies
• Political Science
• Public and Private International Law
• Criminology and Securities Studies
• Civil Law

Must read: All Courses Offered in Nigerian Universities and their Duration

List of Law Courses Offered in Nigerian Universities

What exactly are we talking about when we mention “Law Courses Offered in Nigerian Universities?” As an aspiring legal eagle, it’s crucial to understand the various programs offered across Nigeria. Here, we present a comprehensive list of Law Courses Offered in Nigerian Universities, their prerequisites, and what they entail.

1. Administrative Law
2. Banking & Insurance Law
3. Clinical Legal Education
4. Civil Law
5. Commercial Law
6. Company Law
7. Constitutional Law
8. Conveyancing Law
9. Criminal Law
10. Cyber Law
11. Environmental & Planning Law
12. Equity and Trusts
13. Family Law
14. History and Philosophy of Science
15. Human Rights Law
16. Intellectual Property Law
17. International Law
18. Industrial/Labour Law
19. Introduction to Advocacy
20. Introduction to Political Science
21. Introduction to Sociology
22. Jurisprudence & Legal Theory
23. Labour and Employment Law
24. Land Law
25. Law of Arbitration
26. Law of Banking and Insurance
27. Law of Contract
28. Law of Energy & Natural Resources
29. Law of Evidence
30. Law of Intellectual & Industrial Property
31. Law of Taxation
32. Law of Torts
33. Legal Methods and Systems
34. Logic and Philosophical Thought
35. Long Essay
36. Maritime Law
37. Nigerian Legal System
38. Principles of Accounts
39. Property Law
40. Psychology
41. Public International Law
42. Tax Law
43. Women & Minority Rights

See this: Top 13 Private Universities In Nigeria Offering Law and Their Fees

Types of Law Courses

There are various types of law courses that cater to different aspects of legal studies and specialization. Here are some common types of law courses:

1. Core Law Courses

These are foundational courses that cover essential areas of law, such as constitutional law, criminal law, civil law, contract law, property law, and legal methods. These courses provide a broad understanding of the legal system and its principles.

2. Specialized Law Courses

These courses focus on specific areas of law, allowing students to delve deeper into particular legal disciplines. Examples include corporate law, environmental law, intellectual property law, family law, labor law, tax law, international law, and human rights law.

3. Elective Law Courses

Elective courses offer students the opportunity to choose from a range of specialized topics based on their interests and career goals. These courses can vary widely depending on the institution and may cover emerging areas of law or niche subjects within legal practice.

4. Skills-Based Law Courses

Law courses that focus on practical skills development are designed to equip students with the practical tools necessary for a legal career. These courses may include legal writing and research, advocacy and courtroom skills, negotiation and mediation, legal drafting, and legal clinic experiences.

5. Legal Research Courses

These courses concentrate on honing research skills specific to legal studies. They teach students how to find and analyze legal sources, conduct thorough legal research, and apply their findings to legal arguments and writing.

6. Comparative Law Courses

Comparative law courses explore legal systems and principles across different jurisdictions. Students study and compare the similarities and differences between legal systems and gain a broader perspective on global legal frameworks.

7. Jurisprudence and Legal Theory Courses

Jurisprudence courses delve into the philosophical and theoretical underpinnings of law. They examine questions about the nature of law, legal reasoning, and the relationship between law and society.

8. Interdisciplinary Law Courses

These courses integrate legal studies with other disciplines such as economics, political science, sociology, psychology, or ethics. They explore the intersection of law with other fields, providing a broader understanding of legal issues in context.

9. Clinical Legal Education

Clinical legal education courses involve hands-on experiences where students work on real cases, under the supervision of faculty, to gain practical legal skills and insights into the application of law in practice.

These are just a few examples of the types of law courses available. The availability and specific courses offered may vary across institutions and jurisdictions. It’s important to research specific law schools or universities to get a comprehensive understanding of the courses they offer.

Types of Law Degrees

There are various types of law degrees that are awarded to individuals upon completion of their legal education. Here are the types of law degrees:

1. Juris Doctor (J.D.)

The Juris Doctor is the most common law degree in many countries, including the United States. It is a professional graduate degree that prepares individuals to practice law. The J.D. is typically required to become a licensed attorney.

2. Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.)

The bachelor’s degree in law (LL. B) is the fundamental law degree offered in Nigerian universities. It is a prerequisite for entry into the Nigerian Law School. The LL.B course typically spans five years, covering diverse subjects including constitutional law, criminal law, corporate law, and more. The Bachelor of Laws is also offered in the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and some parts of Europe.

3. Bachelor of Civil Law (B.C.L.)

The Bachelor of Civil Law is a postgraduate degree in law that is commonly awarded by universities in Nigeria, United Kingdom, Ireland, and some Commonwealth countries. It is a more advanced and specialized degree than the LL.B.

4. Master of Laws (LL.M.)

The Master of Laws is a postgraduate degree that allows law graduates to specialize in a specific area of law or gain advanced legal knowledge. It is typically pursued after obtaining an LL.B. or J.D. degree.

5. Doctor of Juridical Science (S.J.D. or J.S.D.)

The Doctor of Juridical Science is the highest level of law degree. It is a research-oriented doctoral degree that is pursued by individuals interested in legal academia or in conducting advanced legal research.

6. Master of Comparative Law (M.C.L.)

The Master of Comparative Law is a specialized postgraduate degree that focuses on the study of different legal systems and comparative legal analysis.

7. Master of Legal Studies (M.L.S.)

The Master of Legal Studies is a non-professional graduate degree that provides individuals with a deeper understanding of the law without necessarily qualifying them to practice law. It is often pursued by professionals from various fields who seek a legal education for career enhancement.

8. Executive Juris Doctor (E.J.D.)

The Executive Juris Doctor is a professional doctoral degree designed for individuals who have significant work experience in non-legal fields and wish to transition into the legal profession.

9. Juris Master (J.M.)

The Juris Master is a master’s level degree in law that is intended for professionals who seek a foundational understanding of legal principles to enhance their expertise in their current fields.

These are some of the common types of law degrees available. The availability and nomenclature of degrees may vary across countries and educational institutions. It’s important to research individual law schools and their degree programs to obtain accurate and up-to-date information.

Structure of Law Courses

The structure and content of law courses can vary depending on the educational institution and the level of study. Some courses may focus on general legal principles and theories, while others may have a specific focus on a particular area of law or legal practice.

Law courses often involve a combination of lectures, seminars, discussions, case studies, and practical exercises. Students may also be required to engage in legal research, write papers, and participate in moot court simulations to develop their analytical and argumentative skills.

Completing a law course can provide students with a foundation in legal knowledge and skills that can be valuable for various career paths, including practicing law, working in government, pursuing legal research, or entering business fields that require a solid understanding of legal principles and regulations.

Importance of Law Education

The study of law forms the backbone of any society. It defines the norms, controls social behavior, and maintains order. But have you ever wondered about the significance of studying law in Nigeria?

Law in the Nigerian Context

In the Nigerian context, law plays a crucial role. It helps protect the rights of citizens, maintains decorum, and ensures justice is served. Hence, pursuing a law degree in Nigeria is not just about acquiring a profession, it’s about shouldering the responsibility of safeguarding societal values.

Admission Requirements to Study Law in Nigerian Universities

Admission requirements usually involve having a good WAEC or NECO result, with at least five credits including English Language and Mathematics.

Jamb Subjects for Law

The following is a list of the four JAMB subjects that you need to pass in order to be eligible to apply to study law at any Nigerian university.

1. Literature in English.
2. Government.
3. CRS/IRS.
4. Use Of English Language.

WAEC Subjects for Law

You are required to take the WAEC examination in 9 different subjects, each of which must earn you at least 5 credit passes in order to pass the examination.

The nine courses listed below must be completed in order to enroll in a Law program at any of Nigeria’s higher education institutions.

1. Literature in English (Compulsory)
2. Government (Very Compulsory)
3. English language (Compulsory)
4. Mathematics (Compulsory)
5. CRS/IRS (Necessary)
6. Commerce
7. Biology science
8. Agricultural science
9. Economics

Top Nigerian Universities for Law

There’s no shortage of Nigerian universities offering law courses. But if you’re seeking the crème de la crème, let’s take a peek at the top five institutions renowned for their law programs.

1. University of Lagos

Recognized as one of the leading universities in Africa, University of Lagos offers an impressive Law program. The Faculty of Law is well-respected, having produced several renowned legal practitioners in Nigeria.

2. Obafemi Awolowo University

Known for its rigorous academics and rich heritage, the Obafemi Awolowo University has one of the oldest law faculties in Nigeria. With a strong emphasis on research, it offers a distinctive learning experience for law students.

3. University of Nigeria, Nsukka

The University of Nigeria, Nsukka boasts a commendable Law Faculty that has contributed significantly to the development of Law in Nigeria. Their curriculum is comprehensive, covering extensive areas of law.

4. University of Ibadan

The University of Ibadan stands tall as the premier university of Nigeria. Its law faculty is known for its exceptional teaching standards and a curriculum that ensures students are versed in both theoretical and practical aspects of law.

5. Ahmadu Bello University

The Faculty of Law at Ahmadu Bello University is renowned for its rigorous academic program and high-quality legal research. Their graduates are reputed for their practical approach to law, making them highly sought after.

List of All Universities in Nigeria Offering Law

If you are interested in pursuing a degree in law and are looking for universities in Nigeria that offer such a program, the following is a list of all of the universities in Nigeria that do so.

• Adeleke University, Ede, Osun State
• Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo
• Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin
• Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko
• Anambra State University, Uli
• Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti
• Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma
• Baze University, FCT, Abuja
• Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo
• Benson Idahosa University, Benin City
• Benue State University, Makurdi
• Bauchi State University, Gadau, Bauchi State
• Crescent University, Abeokuta
• Lead City University, Ibadan
• University Of Jos, Jos
• University Of Ibadan, Ibadan
• University Of Lagos
• University Of Uyo
• University Of Benin, Benin City
• University Of Nigeria Nsukka
• Nasarawa State University, Keffi
• Joseph Ayo Babalola University, Ikeji-Arakeji
• Imo State University, Owerri
• Renaissance University, Ojiagu-Agbani, Enugu
• Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife
• Rivers State University of Science and Technology located in Port Harcourt
• Osun State University, Osogbo
• Umaru Musa Yaradua University, Katsina
• Niger Delta University, Wilberforce Island
• Kogi State University, Anyigba
• Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti
• Nigerian Police Academy, Wudil, Kano State
• Enugu State University of Science and Technology
• Nigeria Turkish Nile University, Abuja
• National Open University Of Nigeria
• Yobe State University, Damaturu
• Morris University, Iwo
• Igbinedion University, Okada, Benin City

Waivers for Law Courses Offered in Nigerian Universities

Despite the fact that we may have included all of the required courses for law, there are still some universities in Nigeria that have additional prerequisites and requirements for students who wish to study in law at their school.

For example, despite the fact that English Language is a required course for law, a certain university in Nigeria may opt to accept CRS rather than English.

In a circumstance such as this one, the demand placed by the University takes precedence over any and all other demands. The list of universities, as well as any waivers or other requirements that they have, can be found below.

• Both NAU and AAU will accept a pass in mathematics and one credit in a science department course.
• Admission to ESUTECH requires a credit pass in Mathematics or any other science course.
• A pass in mathematics is not technically required for entrance to UNIJOS, although it is accepted.
• UI accepts Science credits.
• UNIBEN, UNILORIN, OAU, AAU, UNN, and BU will all accept English literature in addition to any other two subjects.
• At UNILAG, music, fine arts, and accountancy are not considered suitable fields of study. They will, however, only pursue Commerce or Economics as a major, not both.
• Credit passes in mathematics, as well as other disciplines from the arts division, are required by the universities UMYU, ABUAD, and NDU.
• Admission to UNILAG, UNIUYO, MADONNA, and UNIBEN requires mathematical competency.
• Both ABU and DELSU would consider applicants who have completed a mix of topics including Literature and English Language, as well as any other Social Science or Arts courses.

Career Opportunities for Law Graduates

Law graduates have a wide range of career opportunities available to them. Here are some common career paths for law graduates:

1. Legal Practice: Many law graduates choose to become practicing attorneys or solicitors. They can work in law firms of different sizes, ranging from small boutique firms to large multinational organizations. Attorneys can specialize in various areas of law, such as corporate law, criminal law, intellectual property law, family law, environmental law, and more.
2. Judiciary and Legal Services: Law graduates can pursue careers in the judiciary as judges or magistrates. They can also work in legal services, such as legal aid organizations or government agencies responsible for providing legal assistance and advice to individuals or communities.
3. Corporate Counsel: Law graduates often work as in-house counsel for corporations, advising on legal matters related to business operations, contracts, compliance, intellectual property, employment law, and more. They may also handle litigation and represent the company in legal proceedings.
4. Government and Public Sector: Law graduates can work in government agencies at various levels, including local, state, and federal. They may serve as legal advisors, policy analysts, prosecutors, public defenders, or work in regulatory bodies.
5. Nonprofit and Public Interest Organizations: Many law graduates are drawn to careers in nonprofit organizations and public interest law. They can work on issues such as human rights, social justice, environmental protection, immigration, civil liberties, and advocacy for marginalized groups.
6. Academia and Legal Research: Law graduates with a passion for scholarship and teaching can pursue careers in academia. They may become law professors, researchers, or contribute to legal scholarship through writing and publishing.
7. Alternative Dispute Resolution: Law graduates can specialize in alternative dispute resolution methods such as mediation and arbitration. They can work as mediators or arbitrators to help parties resolve legal disputes outside of traditional court proceedings.
8. Legal Consulting: Some law graduates choose to work as legal consultants, providing specialized advice to businesses, organizations, or individuals on legal matters, risk management, compliance, and strategy.
9. Legal Journalism and Writing: Law graduates with strong writing and communication skills can pursue careers in legal journalism, legal publishing, or legal writing for media outlets, law firms, or publishing companies.
10. Entrepreneurship and Business: Law graduates possess valuable skills in critical thinking, analysis, negotiation, and problem-solving, which can be advantageous for starting their own law firms or venturing into business and entrepreneurship.

These are just a few examples of the many career paths available to law graduates. The legal field offers diverse opportunities, and individuals can choose to specialize, pivot, or combine different areas of law throughout their careers based on their interests and goals.

Read also: List of Nigerian Universities (Federal, State & Private Owned University)

Law Courses Offered in Nigerian Universities FAQ

1. What are the entry requirements for a law course in Nigerian universities?

Entry requirements may vary, but typically require good WAEC or NECO results.

2. How long does it take to complete a law course in Nigeria?

An undergraduate law course typically takes five years.

3. What are the career prospects after completing a law course?

Career prospects are diverse, including roles in legal practice, academia, consultancy, and the public sector.

4. Are there scholarships available for law students in Nigeria?

Yes, a variety of scholarships are available for deserving and needy students.

See this: Law Office of Jae Lee Immigrant Student Scholarship, USA

5. Which universities in Nigeria are best for studying law?

UNILAG, UI, and OAU are among the top universities for law studies in Nigeria.

6. How long does it take to complete a Law degree in Nigeria?

The Bachelor of Law (LL. B) degree typically takes five years to complete.

7. Can I practice law with an LL. B degree?

No, an LL. B degree is a prerequisite, but you must also attend the Nigerian Law School, pass the Bar Final Examination, and be called to the Bar.

8. What are the entry requirements for an LL. B degree?

Entry requirements vary among universities, but typically include at least five credit passes in O’Level examinations, including English Language and Literature in English.

9. What postgraduate Law courses are available in Nigerian universities?

Postgraduate law courses in Nigeria include Master of Laws (LL.M), Master of Philosophy (M.Phil.), and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Law.

10. Can international students study Law in Nigerian universities?

Yes, international students can study Law in Nigerian universities, subject to meeting the admission criteria.

11. Are there opportunities for online study in Law in Nigerian universities?

While some Nigerian universities offer online courses, full online law degree programs are currently not available due to practical components of the course.

Conclusion

Choosing to study law in a Nigerian University is a decision that opens the door to a myriad of opportunities. Not only does it build a strong foundation for a successful legal career, but it also fosters critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and a keen understanding of society. Understanding the Law Courses Offered in Nigerian Universities is the first step in this exciting journey.

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