Zoology and Environmental Biology in Nigeria: JAMB Combination, O’Level Requirements, and Admission Guide (2025 Updated)

Choosing the right course and knowing the correct subject combination is one of the biggest steps toward gaining admission into any Nigerian university. If you’re one of the students interested in studying Zoology and Environmental Biology, this detailed guide will help you understand all you need to know about the course — from O’Level requirements to JAMB subject combinations, Direct Entry qualifications, and the list of universities offering it in Nigeria.

Zoology and Environmental Biology is an exciting field that focuses on the study of animals, their structures, evolution, and interaction with the environment. It’s a course for science-minded students who are curious about nature, wildlife, and environmental conservation. But before you can get there, you need to understand the JAMB and O’Level requirements to avoid common mistakes during registration.

This article will explain:

• The meaning and scope of Zoology and Environmental Biology

• The O’Level subjects and grades required

• The correct JAMB (UTME) subject combination

• Direct Entry qualifications

• List of Nigerian universities that offer the course

• Career opportunities after graduation

• Tips to increase your admission chances

Let’s get into the full details.

What Is Zoology and Environmental Biology About?

Zoology and Environmental Biology is a branch of biological science that focuses on the study of animals (both living and extinct), their anatomy, physiology, genetics, and their relationship with the environment. It also deals with how humans and animals affect their surroundings and what can be done to preserve natural ecosystems.

In simpler terms, the course combines two major aspects — Zoology (the study of animals) and Environmental Biology (the study of the environment and how organisms interact within it). Students who study this course learn about biodiversity, wildlife management, environmental conservation, animal behavior, genetics, microbiology, and ecology.

Why Study Zoology and Environmental Biology?

If you’re passionate about wildlife, conservation, or scientific research, this course could be the perfect fit for you. Here are a few reasons why it’s worth considering:

1. Diverse Career Paths: Graduates can work in environmental agencies, research institutions, wildlife parks, conservation centers, and universities.

2. Global Relevance: Environmental protection and biodiversity conservation are now global priorities. This means graduates can work locally or internationally.

3. Contribution to Nature and Sustainability: You’ll play a role in tackling issues like climate change, habitat loss, and species extinction.

4. Gateway to Advanced Studies: The course provides a foundation for postgraduate degrees in Ecology, Marine Biology, Genetics, and Environmental Science.

O’Level (WAEC/NECO/NABTEB) Requirements for Zoology and Environmental Biology

To be eligible for admission, you must have at least five (5) credit passes in relevant subjects. These credits must include core science courses. The O’Level subjects required are:

1. English Language

2. Mathematics

3. Biology

4. Chemistry

5. Physics or any other Science subject (e.g., Agricultural Science or Geography)

Important Note:
Your O’Level results must be obtained in not more than two sittings, and you should ensure all required subjects are credited before applying. Most universities are strict about this, especially when it comes to English, Mathematics, and Biology.

JAMB (UTME) Subject Combination for Zoology and Environmental Biology

To study Zoology and Environmental Biology through UTME, you must register the correct combination of subjects during JAMB registration. The wrong combination can automatically disqualify you, even if you score high.

The JAMB subject combination for Zoology and Environmental Biology is:

1. Biology (Compulsory)

2. Any two (2) of the following:

   • Chemistry

   • Physics

   • Mathematics

Recommended Combination: Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
This is the most common and widely accepted combination across Nigerian universities.

UTME Cut-Off Mark:
The general JAMB cut-off mark for Zoology and Environmental Biology is 180, but competitive universities may require 200 and above. To stand a better chance, aim for 250+, especially if you’re applying to schools like the University of Lagos, University of Ibadan, or UNN.

Direct Entry (DE) Requirements for Zoology and Environmental Biology

If you’re entering through Direct Entry (DE) instead of JAMB UTME, here are the qualifications you need:

• Two (2) A-Level passes or NCE (National Certificate in Education) in any of the following subjects:

  • Biology

  • Zoology

  • Botany

  • And one (1) other Science subject such as Chemistry or Physics.

Other accepted qualifications include:

• OND (Ordinary National Diploma) in relevant science courses with a minimum of Upper Credit.

• IJMB or JUPEB A-Level Certificate with good grades in Biology and other science subjects.

With Direct Entry, you can gain admission into 200 Level instead of starting from 100 Level.

List of Nigerian Universities Offering Zoology and Environmental Biology

Several universities across Nigeria offer this course, but one of the well-known institutions is:

• Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), Abia State

Apart from MOUAU, other universities offer related programs under slightly different names such as Zoology, Biological Sciences, Environmental Biology, or Animal and Environmental Biology. These include:

1. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)

2. University of Lagos (UNILAG)

3. University of Benin (UNIBEN)

4. University of Uyo (UNIUYO)

5. University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT)

6. Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB)

7. University of Jos (UNIJOS)

8. Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA)

9. Ekiti State University (EKSU)

10. University of Calabar (UNICAL)

Each of these universities may have slight variations in requirements, so you should always check the official JAMB Brochure or the school’s admission portal for confirmation before applying.

Duration of Study

The duration for the Bachelor’s degree in Zoology and Environmental Biology is usually four (4) years for UTME students and three (3) years for Direct Entry students. The course is structured into lectures, laboratory practicals, fieldwork, and research projects.

Core Subjects You’ll Study in Zoology and Environmental Biology

As a student in this department, expect to take both general science and specialized courses. Some common topics include:

• General Biology

• Invertebrate and Vertebrate Zoology

• Ecology and Evolution

• Environmental Biology

• Genetics and Molecular Biology

• Conservation Biology

• Microbiology

• Parasitology

• Animal Physiology

• Marine Biology

• Environmental Management and Pollution Studies

• Biostatistics and Research Methods

In your final year, you’ll likely undertake a research project focusing on a specific area like wildlife conservation, environmental impact assessment, or ecosystem restoration.

Career Opportunities for Graduates of Zoology and Environmental Biology

One major advantage of this course is its flexibility. Graduates are not limited to one career path; they can work in multiple fields related to science, health, and the environment. Here are some possible career options:

1. Environmental Consultant: Work with government or private organizations to assess and manage environmental risks.

2. Wildlife Conservationist: Protect endangered species and manage wildlife reserves.

3. Ecologist: Study how living organisms interact with their environments.

4. Research Scientist: Conduct experiments and contribute to scientific knowledge.

5. Environmental Health Officer: Monitor pollution levels and ensure environmental safety.

6. Lecturer/Teacher: Teach in universities, colleges, or secondary schools.

7. Marine Biologist: Study aquatic life and marine ecosystems.

8. Environmental Impact Analyst: Evaluate the effects of development projects on ecosystems.

9. Public Health Officer: Work in environmental sanitation and public health departments.

10. NGO Worker: Join environmental organizations or international agencies like WWF or UNEP.

Some graduates even go on to become policy makers, consultants, or entrepreneurs in the environmental sector.

Tips to Increase Your Admission Chances

1. Score High in JAMB: Try to score above 250 to make your application stand out.

2. Choose the Right Subject Combination: Make sure your UTME subjects align with the course requirements.

3. Prepare Well for Post-UTME: Most universities conduct screening or Post-UTME exams. Study the past questions of your chosen school.

4. Meet O’Level Requirements: Ensure you have credit passes in the right science subjects.

5. Consider Less Competitive Universities: If your JAMB score is low, apply to universities with lower cut-off marks or newly established institutions.

6. Apply Through Direct Entry (if eligible): This can give you an advantage, especially if you have good A-Level or ND results.

Common Mistakes Students Make When Applying

• Wrong Subject Combination: Many students mistakenly register wrong JAMB subjects, making them ineligible.

• Incomplete O’Level Results: Missing required credits in Biology or English can lead to automatic disqualification.

• Ignoring Brochure Variations: Some schools have specific requirements, so always cross-check.

• Choosing the Wrong Institution: Some universities do not offer this exact course, only related ones like Zoology or Environmental Science.

Conclusion

Studying Zoology and Environmental Biology in Nigeria is a smart choice for students who have a deep interest in animals, nature, and the environment. The course opens doors to several career opportunities in research, education, conservation, and environmental management.

Before applying, make sure you have the correct O’Level subjects, UTME subject combination, and understand the Direct Entry requirements. Always check the official JAMB Brochure or your university’s portal for the latest updates.

Remember, education is not just about getting a certificate — it’s about gaining knowledge and using it to solve real-world problems. As a Zoology and Environmental Biology student, you have the potential to make a big impact in building a sustainable future for our planet.

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