Everything you need to know about the best State Universities for Nursing in Nigeria.
Studying Nursing in Nigeria is one of the most rewarding decisions you can make as a student.
The course opens the door to stable jobs, international opportunities, and a respected career.
But one common question many students ask is:
Which state universities offer the best Nursing program in Nigeria?
Well, this guide will give you everything you need to know about the best state universities for Nursing, including their cut-off marks, admission requirements, school fees, and what makes each school unique.
If you want a clear and simple guide to help you choose wisely, you’re in the right place.
What Makes a Good State University for Nursing?
Before listing the best State Universities for Nursing in Nigeria, you need to understand what makes a Nursing program truly good.
A good Nursing school should have:
- Accreditation: The Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) must fully accredit it.
- Strong teaching hospitals: Students need real-life clinical practice.
- Experienced lecturers
- Updated laboratories and facilities
- Stable academic calendar
- Good student support system
Thankfully, all the schools on this list below tick all these boxes.
Check Also: Best Federal Universities that Offer Nursing in Nigeria
Best State Universities for Nursing in Nigeria (Top List)
Here are the top state-owned universities offering Nursing Science in Nigeria:
- Lagos State University (LASU)
- Rivers State University (RSU)
- Delta State University (DELSU)
- Kaduna State University (KASU)
- Ekiti State University (EKSU)
- Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU)
- Benue State University (BSU)
- Abia State University (ABSU)
- Imo State University (IMSU)
- University of Medical Sciences (UNIMED), Ondo (State-owned Medical University)
- Taraba State University (TSU) (new and growing)
Now let’s break these down one by one so you know their Cut-off marks, admission requirements, etc.
1. Lagos State University (LASU)
LASU is one of the best state universities that offer Nursing in Nigeria. The Nursing program is under the College of Medicine located at Ikeja.
Why LASU is a Top Choice
- Excellent teaching hospital (LASUTH)
- Highly trained lecturers
- Outstanding practical experience
- Very competitive and well-respected
LASU JAMB Cut-off Mark for Nursing
250 and above
School FeesÂ
₦150,000 to ₦350,000 per session (varies by student category)
LASU is competitive but worth it if you want quality training.
2. Rivers State University (RSU)
RSU has made huge improvements in health-related programs so it’s among the best State Universities that offer nursing in Nigeria.
Their Nursing department has grown in popularity due to good facilities and experienced lecturers.
Why RSU stands out
- Strong clinical training
- Modern facilities
- Located in a major city with good exposure
Cut-off Mark
240 to 250
Fees
₦90,000 to ₦150,000 per session
3. Delta State University (DELSU)
DELSU Ekpoma is one of the best Nursing programs among state universities in the country.
Their clinical training and teaching hospital are well-equipped.
Why students choose DELSU
- Affordable school fees
- Good academic structure
- High-quality clinical practice
Cut-off Mark
220 to 240
Fees
₦80,000 to ₦150,000 per session
4. Kaduna State University (KASU)
KASU offers a quality Nursing program with certified medical lecturers and a stable academic calendar.
Why KASU is highly rated
- Good clinical exposure
- Affordable fees
- Well-trained lecturers
Cut-off Mark
220 and above
Fees
₦40,000 to ₦70,000 per session
5. Ekiti State University (EKSU)
If you plan to study nursing in Nigeria, EKSU is one of the best State Universities for nursing in Nigeria you should consider.
It has a growing Nursing department backed by experienced lecturers and a strong curriculum.
Why EKSU is recommended
- Good academic environment
- Strong practical training
- Affordable fees
Cut-off Mark
200 to 220
Fees
₦100,000 to ₦150,000 per session
6. Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU)
OOU Ago-Iwoye is known for having premium medical and health science programs.
Why OOU stands out
- Good learning environment
- Quality teaching hospital
- Experienced Nursing lecturers
Cut-off Mark
220 and above
Fees
₦150,000 to ₦200,000
7. Benue State University (BSU)
BSU Makurdi offers a fully accredited Nursing program with good facilities and clinical practice.
Why BSU is notable
- Affordable fees
- Stable academic calendar
- Supportive learning environment
Cut-off Mark
200 to 220
Fees
₦90,000 to ₦120,000 per session
8. Abia State University (ABSU)
ABSU has one of the best State Universities for nursing in Nigeria, it offers most recognized Nursing programs among state universities.
Students enjoy good learning environment, experienced lecturers, and exposure through ABSUTH Teaching Hospital.
Why ABSU is a good choice
- Experienced lecturers
- Good practical training
- Located in a serene environment
Cut-off Mark
220 to 240
Fees
₦150,000 to ₦200,000 per session
9. Imo State University (IMSU)
IMSU offers Nursing with a well-structured curriculum and steady academic progress.
Why IMSU stands out
- Practical training in a standard teaching hospital
- Good quality lecturers
- Well-respected Nursing program
Cut-off Mark
220 and above
Fees
₦100,000 to ₦150,000 per session
10. University of Medical Sciences (UNIMED), Ondo
UNIMED is the first specialized medical university in Nigeria, owned by Ondo State.
Its Nursing program is one of the best in the country.
Why UNIMED is outstanding
- 100% medical-focused university
- Updated labs and facilities
- Excellent clinical exposure
Cut-off Mark
240 and above
Fees
₦200,000 to ₦350,000 per session
11. Taraba State University (TSU)
TSU is the last on our list of best State Universities for nursing in Nigeria, it offers outstanding Nursing programs.
Students benefit from modern and working facilities, committed lecturers, and secure learning environment.
Why TSU is promising
- Affordable
- Good learning environment
- Growing medical faculty
Cut-off Mark
180 to 200
Fees
₦50,000 to ₦100,000 per session
Read Also: Most Affordable Universities in Nigeria
General Admission Requirements for Nursing in State Universities
To study Nursing in any state university in Nigeria, you must meet the following:
1. JAMB Subject Combination
- Use of English
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
2. O’Level Requirements (WAEC/NECO/GCE)
At least 5 credit passes in:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
Must not exceed two sittings.
3. Post-UTME Screening
You must participate in the school’s screening and score above their Nursing cut-off mark.
4. Direct Entry Requirements
You may enter through DE if you have:
- Registered Nurse (RN)
- Registered Midwife (RM)
- A’level Biology, Chemistry & Physics
- ND/HND in Nursing
Which State University Is the Best for Nursing in Nigeria? (2025 Ranking)
Based on academic quality, clinical practice, facilities, and student performance, here is a ranking of the best State Universities for Nursing in Nigeria:
- LASU – Best overall
- UNIMED – Best facilities
- RSU – Best for clinical exposure
- DELSU – Most affordable with quality
- OOU – Strong academic base
- KASU – Stable and affordable
- EKSU – Good for general Nursing training
Note that all schools listed earlier are good, but these seven(7) stand out the most.
See Also: Top Private Universities in Nigeria with Easy Admission Process
FAQs on Best State Universities for Nursing in Nigeria
Q1. Is Nursing competitive in state universities?
Yes. Nursing is one of the most competitive courses, especially in schools like LASU, RSU, and UNIMED.
Q2. What is the safest JAMB score for Nursing in state universities?
Aim for 230 and above for higher chances.
Q3. Which state university is the cheapest for Nursing?
Among the these best State Universities for Nursing in Nigeria, KASU, TSU, and BSU are the most affordable.
Q4. How many years does Nursing take in state universities?
Nursing takes 5 years, plus 1 year of internship.
Q5. Can a Registered Nurse (RN) apply for Direct Entry into Nursing?
Yes. Most of these best state universities for nursing in Nigeria accept RN for Direct Entry into 200 or 300 level.
Conclusion
Choosing any of these best state Universities for Nursing in Nigeria can shape your future as a health professional.
Thank goodness the schools on this list offer strong academic training, quality clinical experience, and affordable fees.
So if you want a school with the best facilities like UNIMED or one with a good reputation like LASU, make your choice and trust that your dream is possible.
In all, what matters most is your passion, hard work, and determination. If you start early and stay focused, you can become a qualified, confident nurse in Nigeria or anywhere in the world.
Good luck!
