Criminology and Security Studies is an engaging field that dives into the root causes of crime, criminal behavior, and ways to ensure safety and security in society.
It blends aspects of law, sociology, and psychology, equipping students for careers in law enforcement, corrections, security management, and the broader criminal justice system.
In Nigeria, many universities and polytechnics provide Criminology and Security Studies, each with its areas of focus.
This article outlines the Polytechnics offering the course for the 2025/2026 academic session, covering admission criteria, career prospects, and other key insights.
Polytechnics for criminology-related courses in Nigeria, prepare you for a job in law enforcement, criminal justice, or security studies.
These polytechnics provide a range of programs connected to criminology at different levels, including bachelor’s degrees, higher national diplomas (HNDs), and national diplomas (NDs).
Criminology as a Field of Study and Its Significance in Nigeria
Criminology is the scientific study of crime, its causes, effects, and social impact, as well as the criminal justice system’s role in addressing crime.
It aims to understand the factors that contribute to criminal behavior and to develop strategies to prevent and reduce crime, making it a vital field for creating safer communities.
Significance in Nigeria
Because of the country’s growing worries about security, criminal justice, and societal well-being, criminology is especially important in Nigeria.
Criminology certificates are essential in forming policies, carrying out research, and offering professional counsel in the fight against crime because of the rising crime rates and the demand for efficient law enforcement and rehabilitation initiatives.
The criminal justice system, law enforcement, non-governmental organizations, and governmental entities striving for safer and more equitable communities greatly respect their competence.
List of Polytechnics for Criminology programs in Nigeria
These polytechnics are key to creating a skilled workforce in criminology, promoting research, and offering solutions to criminal justice challenges in Nigeria Here’s a quick overview of some of the polytechnics you can consider:
- Yaba College of Technology, Lagos
- The Polytechnic, Ibadan
- Kano State Polytechnic, Kano
- Ogun State Institute of Technology, Igbesa
- Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Owerri
- Federal Polytechnic Bida
- Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo
- Ogun State Polytechnic, Abeokuta
- Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku
- Kaduna Polytechnic
- Kogi State Polytechnic
- Benue State Polytechnic
- Abia State Polytechnic
- Yobe State Polytechnic
- Plateau State Polytechnic
- Federal Polytechnic Ilaro
- Akanu Ibiam Federal Polytechnic, Unwana
- Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti
- Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi
- Federal Polytechnic, Damaturu
Best 10 Polytechnics to Study Criminology in Nigeria
1. Yaba College of Technology, Lagos (YABATECH)
- Founding Date: 1947
- Location: Lagos, Lagos State
- Acceptance Rate: Approximately 50%
- Reputation: One of the oldest and most prestigious polytechnics in Nigeria, YABATECH is known for its diverse curriculum and strong academic programs.Its criminology studies are highly regarded for preparing students for careers in law enforcement and criminal justice.
2. The Polytechnic, Ibadan
- Founding Date: 1970
- Location: Ibadan, Oyo State
- Acceptance Rate: Approximately 60%
- Reputation: Recognized for its rigorous academic standards, The Polytechnic, Ibadan, is respected for producing graduates with a solid theoretical and practical foundation in criminology and related fields.
3. Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Owerri
- Founding Date: 1978
- Location: Owerri, Imo State
- Acceptance Rate: Approximately 55%
- Reputation: Nekede Polytechnic is well-regarded for its academic offerings in criminology, preparing students for successful careers in law enforcement, criminal law, and public safety.
4. Federal Polytechnic Bida
- Founding Date: 1977
- Location: Bida, Niger State
- Acceptance Rate: Approximately 50%
- Reputation: Known for its emphasis on criminal justice systems, Federal Polytechnic Bida has earned a solid reputation for training students in law enforcement and crime prevention strategies.
5. Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo
- Founding Date: 1979
- Location: Owo, Ondo State
- Acceptance Rate: Approximately 65%
- Reputation: Rufus Giwa Polytechnic offers criminology and security studies programs that are well-known for preparing students with practical knowledge in law enforcement and crime prevention techniques.
6. Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku
- Founding Date: 2002
- Location: Ogwashi-Uku, Delta State
- Acceptance Rate: Approximately 70%
- Reputation: This polytechnic is recognized for its comprehensive criminology programs, which provide students with a strong understanding of crime, public safety, and law enforcement strategies.
7. Kaduna Polytechnic
- Founding Date: 1956
- Location: Kaduna, Kaduna State
- Acceptance Rate: Approximately 55%
- Reputation: Kaduna Polytechnic is known for its focus on criminal law, security management, and investigative techniques. It has a strong reputation for producing graduates who are well-equipped for criminal justice roles.
8. Benue State Polytechnic
- Founding Date: 1977
- Location: Ugbokolo, Benue State
- Acceptance Rate: Approximately 60%
- Reputation: Benue State Polytechnic is recognized for its criminology programs, with a focus on criminal law, security management, and forensic science. The school is known for its strong emphasis on practical training.
9. Abia State Polytechnic
- Founding Date: 1992
- Location: Aba, Abia State
- Acceptance Rate: Approximately 65%
- Reputation: Abia State Polytechnic is known for its criminology and security studies programs. The school has earned a reputation for helping students understand crime dynamics and effective law enforcement methods.
10. Yobe State Polytechnic
- Founding Date: 1993
- Location: Damaturu, Yobe State
- Acceptance Rate: Approximately 60%
- Reputation: Yobe State Polytechnic offers criminology programs with a focus on criminal law, law enforcement procedures, and crime investigation. The institution is known for providing students with a strong foundation in the criminal justice field.
Admission Requirements of the Polytechnics for Criminology in Nigeria
Five O’level credits, including English and math, and reaching the school’s JAMB cut-off score are usually prerequisites.
While polytechnics offering criminology are not as common as universities, you might find related programs under criminal justice or security studies.
To apply to these polytechnics, you’ll typically need the following:
- Five O’level Credits in subjects such as English, Mathematics, Government, and other relevant social science subjects.
- JAMB Examination: Most polytechnics require you to pass the JAMB exam, which is a prerequisite for admission into Nigerian polytechnics.
- Post-UTME Screening: After the JAMB exam, you may need to participate in the polytechnic’s internal screening or post-UTME.
Admission Process to Study Criminology in Nigeria
The process for getting into criminology programs at these polytechnics is relatively straightforward:
- JAMB Examination: You need to sit for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination and score the required minimum cutoff mark for your desired polytechnic.
- Post-UTME: After meeting the JAMB cutoff mark, you may be required to participate in a post-UTME screening process. This could include written tests, oral interviews, or screening of credentials.
Required Documents:
- JAMB Result Slip: Proof of passing the UTME with the required score.
- O’Level Results: WAEC, NECO, or equivalent results showing your qualifications (with at least five credits including English and Mathematics).
- Birth Certificate or Age Declaration
- Passport Photographs
- Other Documents; such as proof of indigene, certificate of previous education, etc.
JAMB Subject Combination for Criminology Courses in Nigeria
For criminology, the most common subjects required in the JAMB examination include:
- English Language (Compulsory)
- Government/History
- Literature-in-English
- Social Studies
- Economics/Geography
Example
To study criminology at Yaba College of Technology, you need to score at least 140 in JAMB for the National Diploma (ND) program.
Afterward, apply for the post-UTME, and if you meet their criteria and pass the screening, you’ll be admitted. Following these steps improves your chances of joining the criminology program and pursuing a career in criminal justice.
JAMB Cutoff Marks for Polytechnics offering Criminology in Nigeria
JAMB Cut-Off Mark for Polytechnics 2025/2026: If you’re looking to apply to a polytechnic in Nigeria, it’s important to know the JAMB cut-off mark for the 2025/2026 academic session.
The general cut-off mark for polytechnics is 100. Candidates who score at least 100 in the UTME are eligible to apply for admission.
However, each polytechnic may set its own higher cut-off mark based on its admission standards and competitiveness. It’s important to check the specific cut-off mark of your chosen polytechnic before applying.
This is the minimum score you need in the UTME to qualify for admission.
1. Yaba College of Technology, Lagos – Cutoff mark: 140 for ND, 200 for degree courses
2. The Polytechnic, Ibadan – Cutoff mark: 140
3. Kano State Polytechnic, Kano – Cutoff mark: 140
4. Ogun State Institute of Technology, Igbesa – Cutoff mark: 140
5. Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Owerri – Cutoff mark: 140
6. Federal Polytechnic Bida – Cutoff mark: 140
7. Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo – Cutoff mark: 140
8. Ogun State Polytechnic, Abeokuta – Cutoff mark: 140
9. Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku – Cutoff mark: 140
10. Kaduna Polytechnic – Cutoff mark: 140
11. Kogi State Polytechnic – Cutoff mark: 140
12. Benue State Polytechnic – Cutoff mark: 140
13. Abia State Polytechnic – Cutoff mark: 140
14. Yobe State Polytechnic – Cutoff mark: 140
15. Plateau State Polytechnic – Cutoff mark: 140
16. Federal Polytechnic Ilaro – Cutoff mark: 140
17. Akanu Ibiam Federal Polytechnic, Unwana – Cutoff mark: 140
18. Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti – Cutoff mark: 140
19. Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi – Cutoff mark: 120
20. Federal Polytechnic, Damaturu – Cutoff mark: 140
DOWNLOAD PDF FILE: 2025/2026 JAMB Cutoff Marks for all Polytechnics in Nigeria
Why Choose Criminology in Nigeria?
Criminology helps you understand the causes of crime, analyze criminal behavior, and create strategies to combat criminal activities. It opens doors to careers like police officer, security consultant, forensic investigator, and lawyer.
With rising crime rates, criminology graduates are essential to law enforcement, security firms, and criminal justice systems. With the right education, you can help improve law enforcement and reduce crime in society.
If you’re passionate about law and making a difference, studying criminology at these polytechnics is a solid step toward a rewarding career in criminal justice.
Role of Polytechnics in Criminology Education in Nigeria
Polytechnics in Nigeria offer practical criminology education, addressing the country’s security challenges.
By blending theory and hands-on experience, students are prepared to tackle real-world issues like crime prevention, investigations, and rehabilitation.
Institutions like Yaba College of Technology and The Polytechnic, Ibadan are known for their criminology programs that combine academic learning with practical skills, giving students a well-rounded education.
Conclusion
Criminology is a critical branch of research that investigates the underlying causes of crime, its societal consequences, and how society might reduce its effects through justice systems and preventive strategies.
In Nigeria, where security issues are common, criminologists play an important role in designing measures to reduce crime and increase law enforcement.
Polytechnics in Nigeria play an important role in delivering practical and accessible criminology education, offering students a unique combination of theoretical understanding and hands-on skills.
Institutions such as Yaba College of Technology and The Polytechnic, Ibadan play an important role in developing a generation of criminologists ready to face Nigeria’s security concerns.
FAQs
1. Which polytechnics in Nigeria offer Criminology?
Several polytechnics in Nigeria offer Criminology and related courses. Some of the top polytechnics include:
- Federal Polytechnic, Nekede
- Kaduna Polytechnic
- Federal Polytechnic, Nasarawa
- Auchi Polytechnic
These institutions are renowned for their robust Criminology programs in 2025.
2. What are the admission requirements for Criminology in Nigerian Polytechnics?
To gain admission for Criminology in Nigerian polytechnics, candidates typically need:
- A minimum of 5 O’level credits, including English Language, Mathematics, and at least one Social Science subject like Government or Economics.
- A JAMB UTME score of at least 100 (depending on the institution’s cut-off mark).
- Candidates must meet the specific polytechnic’s Criminology department requirements.
3. How do I apply for Criminology at a polytechnic in Nigeria?
To apply for a Criminology program at a Nigerian polytechnic in 2025, follow these steps:
- Register for the JAMB UTME exam and select Criminology as your course of choice.
- Ensure you meet the JAMB cut-off mark for your chosen polytechnic.
- Participate in the Polytechnic Post-UTME screening process.
- Await the admission list to confirm your acceptance.
4. What is the JAMB cut-off mark for Criminology in Nigerian polytechnics?
The JAMB cut-off mark for Criminology in polytechnics typically ranges from 100 to 120, depending on the institution.
For example, Federal Polytechnic Nekede has a cut-off mark of 100 for Criminology in 2025. Always check the specific polytechnic for accurate details.
5. How competitive is Criminology in Nigerian Polytechnics?
Criminology is a moderately competitive course in Nigerian polytechnics. While not as competitive as courses like Engineering or Medicine, it still attracts a considerable number of applicants each year.
Meeting the cut-off mark and performing well in post-UTME will improve your chances of admission.
6. What are the career opportunities after studying Criminology in Nigeria?
Graduates of Criminology from Nigerian Polytechnics have diverse career options. They can work in:
- Law enforcement agencies (e.g., Nigeria Police Force, EFCC, NDLEA)
- Correctional facilities
- Private security firms
- Government agencies focused on crime prevention
Criminology also prepares students for roles in research and community safety programs.
7. How long is the Criminology program in Nigerian Polytechnics?
A Criminology diploma program at Nigerian Polytechnics usually takes 2 to 3 years to complete, depending on the specific institution and the student’s academic progress.
8. Are there scholarships available for Criminology students in polytechnics?
Yes, several polytechnics offer scholarships and financial aid to Criminology students, especially those who demonstrate excellent academic performance or financial need. It’s advisable to check each polytechnic’s website for scholarship opportunities in 2025.
