Aspiring nurses🩺 in Nigeria face a choice between studying nursing at a college or school of nursing or pursuing a degree in a university. Each path has its unique benefits, and understanding the differences can help you choose the right route for your career goals.
This guide compares both pathways and also explains the National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) in nursing offered by colleges and schools of nursing in Nigeria.
1. 🏫 Institution Type and Structure
College or School of Nursing:
These are specialized institutions affiliated with teaching hospitals and focused solely on nursing and midwifery training. They emphasize hands-on clinical learning. Examples include the School of Nursing, LUTH, and UCH Ibadan.
University:
Universities offer a Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc) degree as part of a broader academic curriculum. They provide a balanced mix of theory, clinical training, and research. Examples include University of Ibadan and Obafemi Awolowo University.
2. 📚 Curriculum and Training Focus
College or School of Nursing:
Focused primarily on practical nursing skills such as patient care, clinical procedures, and medication administration. Training is hospital-based, with less emphasis on academic theory.
University:
Combines practical nursing training with in-depth theoretical courses, public health, leadership, and research. Students also study foundational subjects like biology and sociology.
3. ⏳ Duration and Qualifications
College or School of Nursing:
- ND (National Diploma): 2 years of foundational, skill-based training.
- HND (Higher National Diploma): 2 years of advanced clinical and administrative training.
- Total Duration: 4 years (2 years ND + 2 years HND).
Graduates earn Registered Nurse (RN) or Registered Midwife (RM) certifications and may pursue Post-Basic Nursing or BNSc programs to further their qualifications.
University:
A 5-year program leading to a Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc). Graduates earn RN, RM, and Registered Public Health Nurse (RPHN) credentials. They are qualified for clinical work, leadership roles, and postgraduate studies.
4. 💼 Career Opportunities
College or School of Nursing:
ND and HND graduates can work in hospitals, clinics, and community health centers. However, many employers now prefer degree holders for higher roles. Diploma holders often need a BNSc top-up to progress.
University:
BNSc graduates enjoy wider career options — from specialized clinical fields to leadership, public health, and international opportunities. The BNSc degree also qualifies them for master’s and PhD programs.
📌 Final Note
Choosing between a college/school of nursing and a university depends on your career aspirations, time availability, and future goals. Both routes lead to becoming a nurse, but the university route opens more academic and leadership doors.
Interested in enrolling? Many nursing schools have forms currently on sale. If you wish to apply, send a direct message (DM) for guidance.