Top 10 Courses Under Art Department in Nigeria
Introduction
The Arts play a crucial role in shaping society, influencing communication, entertainment, law, and governance. In Nigeria, Arts-related courses are highly respected and offer great career prospects. If you’re an Arts student wondering which course to pursue, this article will guide you through the top 10 courses under Art department in Nigeria, their career opportunities, and the best universities offering them.
1. Mass Communication
Mass Communication is one of the most popular courses in the Arts department. It focuses on various aspects of media, including journalism, broadcasting, public relations, and advertising.
Why Choose Mass Communication?
- It offers vast career opportunities in media, publishing, and corporate communication.
- The digital era has increased the demand for media professionals.
- Nigeria’s growing entertainment and news industry creates numerous job openings.
Career Opportunities
- Journalist (Print, Broadcast, or Online)
- Public Relations Specialist
- Content Creator & Social Media Manager
- Advertising Executive
- News Anchor or TV Presenter
Best Universities Offering Mass Communication in Nigeria
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- Covenant University
- Lagos State University (LASU)
2. Law
Law is a prestigious and highly sought-after course in Nigeria. Many Arts students aspire to become lawyers because of the societal respect and financial stability associated with the profession.
Why Study Law?
- Lawyers play a key role in upholding justice and governance.
- The course opens up diverse specializations such as Human Rights Law, Corporate Law, and Criminal Law.
- Legal practitioners are highly respected in society.
Career Opportunities
- Lawyer (Barrister or Solicitor)
- Legal Advisor
- Corporate Legal Practitioner
- Judge or Magistrate
- Lecturer in Law
Best Nigerian Universities for Law
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- University of Ibadan (UI)
- University of Benin (UNIBEN)
3. Theatre Arts
Nigeria has a thriving entertainment industry, and Theatre Arts is at the core of it. Many successful actors, directors, and playwrights started with a degree in Theatre Arts.
Why Choose Theatre Arts?
- It allows students to explore acting, scriptwriting, and directing.
- Nigeria’s Nollywood is the second-largest movie industry in the world.
- Theatre Arts graduates can work in stage performances, film, and television.
Career Opportunities
- Actor/Actress
- Film Director
- Scriptwriter
- Theatre Manager
- Drama Teacher
Best Universities Offering Theatre Arts in Nigeria
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- University of Ibadan (UI)
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
4. English and Literary Studies
English and Literary Studies is a versatile course that provides students with skills in communication, critical thinking, and creativity.
Why Choose English and Literary Studies?
- It enhances language proficiency and communication skills.
- Students can explore careers in writing, teaching, and publishing.
- The course is fundamental for content creation and media-related jobs.
Career Opportunities
- Editor or Publisher
- English Teacher or Lecturer
- Writer (Fiction & Non-Fiction)
- Communications Specialist
- Proofreader
Best Nigerian Universities for English and Literary Studies
- University of Ibadan (UI)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
- University of Benin (UNIBEN)
- Lagos State University (LASU)
5. International Relations
International Relations is ideal for students interested in diplomacy, politics, and global affairs.
Why Study International Relations?
- It helps students understand global politics and foreign policies.
- The course opens up opportunities in government and international organizations.
- Graduates can work with embassies, NGOs, and international media.
Career Opportunities
- Diplomat or Foreign Service Officer
- Policy Analyst
- International Journalist
- Human Rights Advocate
Best Nigerian Universities Offering International Relations
- Covenant University
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- Lead City University
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
6. Political Science
Political Science is a crucial course that examines governance, political theories, and the functioning of governments worldwide. In Nigeria, this course is ideal for students passionate about politics, public policy, and administration.
Why Study Political Science?
- It provides an understanding of political structures and policies.
- Graduates can work in government, policy research, and civil service.
- It opens opportunities in journalism, diplomacy, and public administration.
Career Opportunities
- Political Analyst
- Public Administrator
- Civil Servant
- Legislative Aide
- Policy Researcher
Best Nigerian Universities Offering Political Science
- University of Ibadan (UI)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
7. Linguistics
Linguistics is the scientific study of languages, their structures, and how they evolve over time. This course is perfect for students who love languages and communication.
Why Choose Linguistics?
- It enhances understanding of language structures and cultural communication.
- Linguists contribute to translation, artificial intelligence, and speech therapy.
- It opens up careers in teaching, media, and international organizations.
Career Opportunities
- Translator/Interpreter
- Language Specialist
- Speech Therapist
- Lexicographer (Dictionary Compiler)
- Lecturer/Teacher
Best Universities Offering Linguistics in Nigeria
- University of Ibadan (UI)
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
8. History and International Studies
This course focuses on historical events and their impact on contemporary global affairs. Students gain knowledge in world history, diplomacy, and geopolitics.
Why Study History and International Studies?
- It provides insights into past events and how they shape the present.
- It is valuable in policy-making, diplomacy, and international relations.
- Graduates can work in education, research, or government sectors.
Career Opportunities
- Historian
- Archivist
- Diplomat
- Museum Curator
- Policy Advisor
Best Nigerian Universities Offering History and International Studies
- University of Ibadan (UI)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- Lagos State University (LASU)
9. Philosophy
Philosophy explores human thought, ethics, logic, and reasoning. It is ideal for students who enjoy critical thinking, debates, and analyzing concepts deeply.
Why Study Philosophy?
- It sharpens critical thinking and analytical skills.
- The course is essential in ethics, law, and policy-making.
- It is a foundation for careers in academia, religion, and governance.
Career Opportunities
- Lecturer/Professor
- Ethics Consultant
- Public Policy Analyst
- Religious Leader
- Journalist/Writer
Best Nigerian Universities Offering Philosophy
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- University of Ibadan (UI)
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
10. Fine and Applied Arts
Fine and Applied Arts focus on creativity, design, and visual representation. This course is ideal for students passionate about painting, sculpture, and digital art.
Why Choose Fine and Applied Arts?
- It allows students to express creativity through various artistic forms.
- The course has numerous opportunities in the digital and creative industries.
- Nigeria’s growing art industry creates high demand for skilled artists.
Career Opportunities
- Graphic Designer
- Painter/Sculptor
- Art Director
- Illustrator
- Interior Designer
Best Universities Offering Fine and Applied Arts in Nigeria
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
Conclusion
Choosing the right Arts course in Nigeria depends on your interests and career aspirations. Whether you prefer communication, law, politics, or creativity, there are plenty of options in the Arts department. Each course offers vast career prospects, so it is essential to choose wisely based on your passion and future goals.
FAQs
1. What are the best-paying careers for Arts students in Nigeria?
Law, Mass Communication, and International Relations are among the highest-paying careers for Arts students in Nigeria. Lawyers, journalists, and diplomats earn competitive salaries.
2. Can I study Law without a background in Science subjects?
Yes, Law is an Arts-based course that does not require science subjects. However, students must have credits in English, Government, and Literature in English.
3. What universities offer the best Mass Communication programs in Nigeria?
Top universities for Mass Communication include the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Covenant University, and the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN).
4. Is Theatre Arts a lucrative course in Nigeria?
Yes, Theatre Arts graduates can work in Nollywood, stage productions, TV broadcasting, and scriptwriting, which can be financially rewarding.
5. What is the easiest Art course to study in Nigeria?
Courses like Philosophy, Linguistics, and History are generally considered less demanding compared to Law or Mass Communication. However, the ease of study depends on individual interest and dedication.
