The National Universities Commission (NUC), recently published a list of 17 dual-mode universities approved to operate Distance Learning Programs centers in Nigeria.
National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), with about 72 study centers across the nation, is currently the only Uni-mode university recognized for Open and Distance Learning in university education.
Distance learning programs have become a popular choice for students in Nigeria who want to pursue higher education while balancing work, family, or other commitments.
With flexible schedules, affordable tuition, and quality education, distance-learning universities provide a viable path to a degree without being physically present on campus.
Best Universities for Distance Learning Programs in Nigeria
Here’s a list of the top universities offering distance learning programs in Nigeria.
1. National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN)
NOUN provides a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate distance learning programs.
- Key Programs: B.Sc., B.A., MBA, PGD, and professional certifications.
- Why NOUN?: With study centers nationwide and flexible learning schedules, NOUN is an excellent choice for both working professionals and students living in remote areas.
- Tuition Fees: Ranges from ₦150,000 to ₦410,000 per semester (undergraduate).
- Accreditation: NUC-accredited.
2. University of Lagos (UNILAG) Distance Learning Institute (DLI)
UNILAG’s DLI is renowned for offering distance learning programs in professional and management disciplines.
- Key Programs: B.Sc. in Accounting, Business Administration, and Education.
- Why UNILAG DLI?: UNILAG combines quality education with flexible study schedules, offering practical courses suitable for the modern workforce.
- Tuition Fees: Ranges from ₦150,000 to ₦170,000 per session.
- Accreditation: NUC-accredited.
3. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Distance Learning Center
ABU DLC offers Distance Learning undergraduate and postgraduate programs, with a strong focus on business and administrative courses.
- Key Programs: B.Sc. Business Administration, B.Sc. Public Administration, MBA.
- Why ABU?: ABU’s advanced e-learning platform makes it easy for students to access learning materials, offering a reputable distance learning experience.
- Tuition Fees: ₦10,000 per course (B.Sc.); other fees apply.
- Accreditation: NUC-accredited.
4. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) Centre for Distance Learning
OAU CDL provides a combination of online learning and occasional physical interactions, ensuring students get the best of both worlds.
- Key Programs: B.Sc. Accounting, Nursing, Economics, Education.
- Why OAU?: OAU’s historical excellence in education is reflected in its well-structured distance learning programs.
- Tuition Fees: Ranges from ₦160,000 to ₦250,000+ per session.
- Accreditation: NUC-accredited.
5. University of Ibadan (UI) Distance Learning Centre
As a pioneer in Nigerian education, UI’s Distance Learning Centre offers comprehensive programs across several disciplines.
- Key Programs: B.Sc. in Economics, Education, and Social Work.
- Why UI?: The institution’s reputation for academic excellence makes its distance learning programs particularly appealing.
- Tuition Fees: Ranges from ₦170,000 to ₦290,000 per year.
- Accreditation: NUC-accredited.
6. University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) Distance Learning
UNIMAID offers flexible learning for students interested in public and administrative fields.
- Key Programs: B.Sc. Business Administration, Public Health, Education.
- Why UNIMAID?: Known for its focus on distance education for students in Northern Nigeria, UNIMAID provides access to education for those in hard-to-reach areas.
- Tuition Fees: Fees vary based on the program.
- Accreditation: NUC-accredited.
7. Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) Open and Distance Learning Centre
LAUTECH ODL Centre offers science and technology-related programs in a flexible distance learning format.
- Key Programs: B.Sc. in Computer Science, Agricultural Extension, and Science Education.
- Why LAUTECH?: LAUTECH’s technology-focused programs make it a top choice for students interested in IT and science disciplines.
- Tuition Fees: Ranges from ₦190,000 to ₦310,000 per year.
- Accreditation: NUC-accredited.
8. Bayero University Kano (BUK) Distance Learning
BUK’s distance learning programs focus on administrative and business-related disciplines.
- Key Programs: B.Sc. Public Administration, B.Sc. Business Administration.
- Why BUK?: BUK’s distance learning platform is well-suited for students looking to advance their careers without leaving their jobs.
- Tuition Fees: About ₦10,000 per course.
- Accreditation: NUC-accredited.
9. Joseph Ayo Babalola University (JABU) Distance Learning
JABU offers several distance learning programs in business and entrepreneurship, designed for students seeking flexible learning.
- Key Programs: B.Sc. Business Administration, Entrepreneurship.
- Why JABU?: JABU is a private university known for its focus on entrepreneurship, making it a good option for business students.
- Tuition Fees: Ranges from ₦160,000 to ₦320,000 per year.
- Accreditation: NUC-accredited.
10. Lagos State University (LASU) Open and Distance Learning and Research Institute (ODLRI)
LASU ODLRI offers a range of programs aimed at providing access to higher education through flexible learning methods.
- Key Programs: B.Sc. Business Administration, Economics, Mass Communication.
- Why LASU?: LASU is a popular state university that offers distance learning programs with a focus on practical applications in the workforce.
- Tuition Fees: Ranges from ₦160,000 to ₦250,000 per year.
- Accreditation: NUC-accredited.
List of Universities that offer Distance Learning Programs in Nigeria
- 1. Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti ABUAD Open and Distance Learning Centre
- 2. Ahmadu Bello University Zaria Distance Learning Centre ABU, Zaria
- 3. Babcock University Ilishan Babcock Centre for Open Distance and e-Learning
- 4. Federal University of Technology Minna FUTMINNA Centre for Open Distance and e-Learning
- 5. Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Portharcourt IAUE Institute of Distance Education
- 6. Joseph Ayo Babalola University University JABU Center for Distance Learning
- 7. Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso LAUTECH Distance Learning Centre
- 8. Lagos State University Lagos State University Open and Distance Learning and Research Institute
- 9. Modibbo Adama University of Technology, Yola MAUTECH Centre for Distance Learning
- 10. Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife OAU Centre for Distance Learning
- 11. Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye OOU Open and Distance Learning Centre
- 12. University of Lagos, Akoka UNILAG Distance Learning Institute
- 13. University of Maiduguri, Maiduguri UNIMAID Centre for Distance Learning
- 14. University of Ilorin UNILORIN Centre for Open Distance and e-Learning
- 15. University of Ibadan, Ibadan UI Distance Learning Centre
- 16. University of Nigeria Nsukka UNN Center for Distance and e-Learning
- 17. University of Abuja, Abuja UNIABUJA Centre for Distance Learning and Continuing Education
List of Top 6 Best Online Universities in Nigeria
In Nigeria, online education has become essential. Due to factors like growing Internet penetration (from 26% to over 38% between 2018 and 2022).
The need for flexible learning, the necessity to upskill in a changing labor market, and traditional schools’ limited capacity, there are a lot of online universities nowadays.
1. National Open University (NOUN)
With nine faculties and 37 departments, the NUC-accredited university offers undergraduate, graduate, and diploma programs in subjects like the arts, education, science, and law, for a total of over 122 programs.
2. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) — Distance Learning Centre
It also offers postgraduate, master’s, and certificate programs, however unlike NOUN, these have fewer options.
3. University of Ibadan Distance Learning
The arts, education, social sciences, science, health sciences, law, management sciences and technology, and agricultural sciences are only a few of the faculties that offer courses through UI distance learning.
4. Miva Open University
Miva is an open university with an NUC license that grants degrees. The School of Computing, the School of Management and Social Sciences, and the School of Allied Health Sciences are the three faculties approved.
Additionally, it provides programs for Master of Public Administration and Master of Business Administration (MBA).
5. Iconic Open University
This is a private open, distance, and e-learning institution in Nigeria that is accredited by the NUC.
It provides courses in a variety of fields, including allied health science, computer science, arts and humanities, and social and management science.
6. Nexford University
Nexford courses consist of modules that include on-demand videos. Faculty host optional live lectures twice a month; you can book appointments with faculty to get individual feedback.
At Nexford, instead of exams, you complete final projects and assignments that are graded.
Best Online Universities Offering Nursing Programs in Nigeria
- Distance Learning Center ABU, Zaria.
- Miva Open University, Abuja, FCT
- Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Centre for Distance Learning.
- University of Ibadan, Ibadan Distance Learning Center.
- Usmanu Danfodio University, Sokoto Centre for Open and Distance Education (CODE)
Best Online Universities Offering Computer Science Programs in Nigeria
- Miva Open University, Abuja, FCT
- Nexford University
- National Open University (NOUN)
Best Online Universities Offering Accounting Programs in Nigeria
- University of Lagos, Akoka Distance Learning Institute.
- National Open University (NOUN)
Best Online Universities Offering Accounting Programs in Nigeria
- Centre for Distance Learning, Obafemi Awolowo University
- Lagos State University Open and Distance Learning and Research Institute
- National Open University (NOUN)
Things to consider when choosing an online university in Nigeria
1. Accreditation and legitimacy
- Make sure the university is accredited by the NUC.
- Research the recognition of the degree nationally and internationally.
2. Program offerings
- Assess the availability of courses and specializations.
- Check for flexibility in course selection and progression.
3. Tuition and financial considerations
- Consider tuition fees across institutions.
- Look for scholarship opportunities and financial aid options.
4. Student support services
- Assess access to academic advisors, counseling, and career services.
- Look for resources like online libraries and study materials.
5. Technology and learning platforms
- Examine the usability and reliability of the online learning platform.
- Ensure access to recorded lectures, discussion forums, and interactive tools.
Conclusion
Choosing the right university for distance learning in Nigeria depends on your program of interest, budget, and flexibility needs.
The 10 universities listed here offer a variety of accredited programs that cater to different academic and professional goals.
Whether you’re aiming for a bachelor’s, master’s, or diploma, these institutions provide quality education with the convenience of studying from anywhere.
FAQs
Are distance learning degrees in Nigeria recognized?
Yes, all the universities listed above are accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC), and their distance learning degrees are recognized both in Nigeria and internationally.
Can I participate in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) with an online degree?
Yes! You can participate in the NYSC program, your degree certificate is equivalent to any with the NYSC certificate/Exemption.
What is the cost of online education in Nigeria?
The cost of online education in Nigeria varies depending on the institution and/or program. But The range is between ₦200,000 and above.
What are the benefits of distance learning?
Distance learning offers flexibility, allowing students to study from anywhere while balancing personal and professional responsibilities. It is ideal for working professionals and those in remote locations.
How do I apply for a distance learning program?
Applications are typically done online via the respective university’s distance learning portal. Applicants must submit the required documents and pay the necessary fees.
Can I transfer from a regular program to a distance learning program?
Yes, many universities allow students to transfer from traditional on-campus programs to distance learning, subject to certain requirements.
