As you are about to jump to the next level as a student in Nigeria with aspiring energy in media, choosing the best polytechnics for mass communication programs becomes a vital point in your life.
Studying Mass Communication in Nigeria can open doors to your exciting career path in journalism, broadcasting, public relations, and media production. However, selecting the right polytechnic is your ultimate key to receiving the best education and hands-on experience.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to the top 10 polytechnics in Nigeria where you can study Mass Communication, with insights from students who have walked the path before you. Along with essential details like admission requirements, why you should consider these institutions, tuition fees, and the admission process.
What is Mass Communication?
Mass communication is the process of transmitting ideas, information, or messages to large audiences using various media platforms, including newspapers, radio, television, the Internet, and digital platforms. This field includes public relations, broadcasting, advertising, media studies, journalism, and other media production.
Mass communication professionals, including media planners, journalists, broadcasters, content producers, and public relations specialists, may hold various positions. They use various communication techniques to reach a large audience, shape public opinion, establish social standards, and provide amusement and information.
The 10 Best Polytechnics for Mass Communication in Nigeria
- Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro
- Auchi Polytechnic
- Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH)
- Abraham Adesanya Polytechnic, Ogun
- Federal Polytechnic, Ede
- Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi
- Kaduna Polytechnic
- Federal Polytechnic, Nekede
- Rufus Giwa Polytechnic
- The Polytechnic of Ibadan
These polytechnics are widely recognized for their capacity to blend excellent education with practical media training, guaranteeing that graduates are prepared for professions in the fast-paced and competitive industry of mass communication.
Admission, Tuition Fees, and Requirements for Mass Communication in Nigerian Polytechnics
1. Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro
Thanks to its industry partnerships, Ilaro, which is well-known for its top-notch Mass Communication program, provides hands-on training in journalism, radio, and public relations.
Ngozi, Mass Communication Graduate: “When I visited Ilaro for the first time, I was amazed by the modern studios and the involvement of lecturers who had real-world experience.
My time there allowed me to work on projects with local radio stations and get valuable broadcasting experience. Now, I’m a news anchor, and I owe a lot of my skills and confidence to Ilaro’s practical approach.”
- Admission Requirements: Requires a good JAMB score and O’level results (English, Mathematics, and two other relevant subjects).
- Tuition Fees: Between ₦117,500 for indigene students and ₦180,000 for non-indigene students in tuition fees.
- Acceptance Fees: ₦ N38,500
2. Auchi Polytechnic
Auchi Polytechnic, which has a rich history in media studies, prepares students for the cutthroat media industry by offering both theoretical and practical experience.
John, Media Executive: “When I decided to study at Auchi, I didn’t realize how quickly it would transform my career.”
“The hands-on media production experience, including an internship with a broadcasting company, was invaluable. After graduating, I immediately secured a full-time position in the industry.”
- Admission Requirements: Candidates need a minimum of five O’level credits, including English and Mathematics.
- Tuition Fees: Auchi’s fees for Mass Communication students typically fall between ₦93,600 – ₦130,000, depending on the student’s program.
- Acceptance Fees: ₦₦30,000
3. Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH)
YABATECH is known for its modern facilities and experienced faculty, offering excellent Mass Communication training.
Sarah, Broadcast Journalist: “At YABATECH, I worked on news stories, conducted interviews, and was able to produce my own radio shows.”
“The experience was invaluable, and thanks to the mentorship from my professors, I was able to land a broadcasting job almost immediately after graduation.”
- Admission Requirements: Minimum of five O’level credits (English and Mathematics are mandatory).
- Tuition Fees: Yabatech charges tuition fees ranging from ₦60,000 to ₦100,000 for Mass Communication students, again varying with indigeneity status.
- Acceptance Fees: ₦25,000
4. Abraham Adesanya Polytechnic, Ogun
Chuka, a PR officer, shares: “I chose Adesanya Polytechnic because of the diversity in the Mass Communication program. I was able to explore everything from journalism to digital media and public relations.”
“What stood out was the opportunity to intern with top PR firms in the country, which gave me real-world exposure. It helped me land my first job in PR shortly after graduation.”
- Admission Requirements: A good JAMB score and relevant O’level subjects.
- Tuition Fees: Generally between ₦50,000 – ₦150,000
- Acceptance Fees: ₦30, 000
5. Federal Polytechnic, Ede
With a strong emphasis on media production, students gain valuable hands-on experience, especially in broadcasting and journalism.
Tunde, Radio Producer: “Ede Polytechnic offered me hands-on experience in media production. My final year project was aired on local radio, and I was offered an internship right after.”
“I’m now a producer in the broadcasting industry, and my time at Ede was a stepping stone for my career.”
- Admission Requirements: Similar to other institutions, with an emphasis on communication skills.
- Tuition Fees: Around ₦40,000
- Acceptance Fees: ₦25,000
6. Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi, (Bauchi State)
It offers diverse mass communication programs with modern media equipment and internship opportunities.
As a media consultant, Maryam reflects on her time at Bauchi Polytechnic: “When I chose Bauchi, I was looking for a school with modern facilities, and this polytechnic didn’t disappoint.”
“The media labs were equipped with the latest technology, which gave me a hands-on understanding of what I would face in the professional world. After completing my studies, I quickly transitioned into consulting for media houses.”
- Admission Requirements: Five O’level credits, including English and Mathematics.
- Tuition Fees: Estimated at ₦50,000
- Acceptance Fees: ₦5,000
7. Kaduna Polytechnic (KADPOLY), (Kaduna State)
KADPOLY is notable for its strong journalism courses, particularly in print media, and state-of-the-art facilities.
Abbas, an editor, shares his experience at Kaduna Polytechnic: “I’ve always had a passion for print journalism, and KADPOLY’s journalism program helped me hone my writing skills.”
“The curriculum gave me a deep understanding of media ethics and editorial practices. After an internship at a renowned newspaper, I started my career as an editor.”
- Admission Requirements: 5 O’level credits and JAMB score.
- Tuition Fees: ₦50,000 to ₦80,000 per year, depending on whether the student is an indigene or non-indigene
- Acceptance Fees: ₦10,000
8. Federal Polytechnic, Nekede, (Imo State)
Known for its focus on professional Mass Communication education and access to internships in major media houses.
Precious, PR Specialist: “Nekede prepared me for a PR career with its extensive curriculum on media relations and event management. After an internship, I immediately landed a role in one of the top PR firms in Nigeria.”
- Admission Requirements: O’level credits with good JAMB results.
- Tuition Fees: The school fees for new students range between ₦58,000 and ₦75,000, depending on the mode of study (morning, evening, or weekend sessions)
- Acceptance Fees: ₦40,000
9. Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, (Ondo State)
Offers specialized courses in broadcasting, journalism, and public relations, making it a good choice for aspiring media professionals.
Emeka, Journalist: “At Rufus Giwa, I worked on several projects that involved producing news reports and short films. The hands-on learning approach made it easier to transition into my career as a media consultant.”
- Admission Requirements: O’level passes, including English and Mathematics, and a decent JAMB score.
- Tuition Fees: Tuition fees here are under ₦100,000
- Acceptance Fees: ₦15,000
10. The Polytechnic of Ibadan, (Oyo State)
Known for a strong emphasis on media production and broadcasting, it provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the Mass Communication field.
Adebayo, Media Specialist: “Poly Ibadan was the perfect place to discover my passion for media. From journalism to digital media, I explored different fields before deciding to specialize in media strategy. Now, I work as a media specialist.”
- Admission Requirements: Requires relevant O’level subjects and a competitive JAMB score.
- Tuition Fees: Fees are approximately ₦50,000 – ₦70,000
- Acceptance Fees: (₦45,000)
JAMB &Departmental Cut-off Marks for the Best Polytechnics offering Mass Communication
1. Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro
- JAMB Cut-off Mark: 150
- Departmental Cut-off Marks (for Mass Communication): 210
2. Auchi Polytechnic
- JAMB Cut-off Mark: 150
- Departmental Cut-off Marks: Generally start from 150 for various departments, but for competitive courses like Mass Communication, it may be higher
3. Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH)
- JAMB Cut-off Mark: 150
- Departmental Cut-off Marks: For Mass Communication, typically around 160-180 depending on the applicant pool
4. Abraham Adesanya Polytechnic, Ogun
- JAMB Cut-off Mark: 150
- Departmental Cut-off Marks: For Mass Communication, expect it to be around 180 or higher
5. Federal Polytechnic, Ede
- JAMB Cut-off Mark: 150
- Departmental Cut-off Marks: Department-specific cut-offs are generally not published, but for Mass Communication, it’s likely similar to other institutions—around 160-180
6. Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi
- JAMB Cut-off Mark: 150
- Departmental Cut-off Marks: For Mass Communication, expect cut-off marks to range around 160-180
7. Kaduna Polytechnic
- JAMB Cut-off Mark: 150
- Departmental Cut-off Marks: Departmental cut-offs for Mass Communication are not readily available, but similar to other polytechnics, it is expected to be around 160-180
8. Federal Polytechnic, Nekede
- JAMB Cut-off Mark: 150
- Departmental Cut-off Marks: Typically around 180 or more for Mass Communication
9. Rufus Giwa Polytechnic
- JAMB Cut-off Mark: 150
- Departmental Cut-off Marks: Mass Communication may have a higher cut-off mark around 180
10. The Polytechnic of Ibadan
- JAMB Cut-off Mark: 150
- Departmental Cut-off Marks: For Mass Communication, expect the cut-off to be higher, likely between 170 and 190
Remember that these cut-off scores are only meant to serve as a general guideline, and the precise cut-off may change annually depending on the number of applicants. For the most precise and current information, it’s wise to get in touch with the polytechnic directly.
General Requirements for Mass Communication in Nigerian Polytechnics
National Diploma (ND): Candidates must have at least five O’level credits from WASSCE, NECO, or comparable exams in topics like English, mathematics, and other pertinent disciplines to be admitted to the majority of polytechnics. Other qualifications, such as NABTEB scores, may also be taken into account by certain schools.
Many polytechnics need applicants to have taken the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) exams to be considered for ND programs. Candidates then frequently undergo a polytechnic-conducted post-UTME screening.
Higher National Diploma (HND): Candidates for HND programs must have finished a relevant ND degree with good results (usually a CGPA of 2.50 or higher), have relevant job experience, or have finished the necessary internship.
For HND programs, most institutions will require candidates to apply through the school’s portal and sometimes undergo a post-UTME or screening interview.
Aptitude Tests or Interviews: To assess communication skills, particularly for Mass Communication courses, certain polytechnics may need extra screening procedures such as taking an aptitude test or going through an interview.
Age Limit: Although applicants for ND courses must be at least 16 years old, there are typically no age restrictions.
Additional Documents:
- Birth Certificate/Declaration of Age
- State of Origin/Local Government Certificate
- Passport Photographs
Why You Should Consider These Polytechnics
Any of these polytechnics that provide mass communication courses combine academic understanding with real-world application.
With the help of these programs, you will be able to work in media fields like public relations, journalism, advertising, and broadcasting. Furthermore, these organizations frequently offer internships that expose you to actual media settings.
Marketability of Mass Communication in Nigeria
Employment opportunities have increased due to the growth of digital media, social media platforms, and online journalism. With a population of more than 200 million, Nigeria’s varied media environment has a wealth of opportunities for recent graduates in this profession.
Nigeria has one of the largest media industries in Africa, with numerous radio, and television stations, newspapers, and digital media platforms.
As the globe becomes more digital, Nigerian media outlets embrace digital transformation. Social media and online journalism are opening up new options for communication professionals.
The demand for public relations and advertising specialists in Nigeria keeps increasing, particularly as more companies and businesses seek to effectively interact with their audiences.
As a country with political, social, and economic changes, media professionals play a crucial role in shaping public discourse, which enhances the relevance of mass communication in Nigeria.
Summary
Your future in the media industry depends on the polytechnic you choose to study mass communication at. Every polytechnic on this list has its own set of advantages, including as strong industry connections and experiential learning opportunities.
These polytechnics give you what you need to be successful in a fast-paced media job, including real-world experience through internships and faculty mentoring and support.
