5 Courses You Should Not Study In Nigeria 

Deciding on a course to study in college is no small feat, especially in Nigeria, where your choice could significantly influence your career trajectory. This is because, with the evolving job market, it’s important to select courses that not only interest you but also prepare you for substantial opportunities post-graduation. 

While there are many great fields of study, certain courses might not align well with the current employment landscape in Nigeria. This doesn’t imply these courses lack value or importance, rather, their practical applications and the opportunities they lead to can be quite limited in our context. Here are some courses that are considered less beneficial for students looking to enter the Nigerian job market, ensuring you make informed decisions that pave the way to a fruitful career.

Sociology

Sociology—the study of social behavior and societies—is intellectually enriching but faces practical challenges in Nigeria. The skills acquired through sociology are crucial for understanding societal dynamics but are often undervalued in the Nigerian job market. Many sociology graduates find themselves underemployed, struggling to find roles that suit their expertise or that pay adequately.

Zoology

Zoology, the scientific study of animals, is globally recognized and respected. Yet, in Nigeria, the demand for zoologists is minimal. Our economic focus leans towards more immediate issues, sidelining fields like wildlife conservation, which receives little attention and funding. Zoology graduates often have to consider careers outside their field of study or look for opportunities abroad.

Horticulture

Horticulture involves the cultivation of plants, from fruits and vegetables to ornamental plants, and could be immensely beneficial in a more agriculture-focused economy. However, the reality in Nigeria does not favor horticulturists; the local job market is almost barren for this specialty. Graduates often need to start their own businesses to apply their skills, facing high initial barriers and uncertain returns.

Library and Information Science

In the digital age, the role of traditional libraries is evolving. Library and Information Science deals with the management and organization of information, a field that thrives in countries with strong, funded library systems. However, in Nigeria, where libraries are often underfunded and underutilized, graduates find themselves facing a tight job market. The digital shift further challenges the relevance of traditional library roles in our country.

Physical Education

Promoting health and fitness is essential, and Physical Education plays a critical role in this. Nevertheless, in Nigeria, where economic priorities lie elsewhere, careers in sports and fitness are often sidelined. Most graduates with a degree in Physical Education end up as school teachers in roles that are not only undervalued but also among the lowest paid in the education sector.