Unilag Postgraduate Courses And Requirements: The University of Lagos (UNILAG) is one of Nigeria’s foremost institutions, offering a range of postgraduate programs designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and skills across numerous fields. For the 2024/2025 academic session, UNILAG’s School of Postgraduate Studies has opened applications for several programs, including Postgraduate Diplomas (PGD), Master’s Degrees, Professional Master’s Degrees, Master of Philosophy (M.Phil.), and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) programs. This guide provides detailed information on the courses available, admission requirements, and the application process to help prospective candidates understand their eligibility and the steps needed to apply.
Types of Postgraduate Programmes Offered at UNILAG
UNILAG offers a wide range of postgraduate programmes to cater to various academic backgrounds and career goals. These include:
- Postgraduate Diploma (PGD): This programme is ideal for candidates looking to enhance their qualifications in a particular field without committing to a full Master’s degree.
- Master’s Degree (M.A., M.Sc., M.Ed., LLM, etc.): The Master’s programmes are research or coursework-based degrees intended to deepen knowledge and expertise in a chosen field.
- Professional Master’s Programmes (e.g., MBA, MPA, MEM, etc.): These degrees focus on practical skills for specific industries and include Executive and distance learning options.
- Master of Philosophy (M.Phil.): The M.Phil. is a pre-Ph.D. programme for candidates with a Bachelor’s degree or a Master’s degree who wish to pursue further research training.
- Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.): A Ph.D. programme is designed for advanced research in a specific field and is open to qualified candidates who have completed a Master’s or M.Phil.
Each program offers flexible study modes, including full-time, part-time, executive, and Open Distance Learning (ODL) options to accommodate various schedules and commitments.
General Admission Requirements for Postgraduate Programmes at UNILAG
To apply for any postgraduate course at UNILAG, candidates must meet certain general requirements, as well as specific department-based criteria. Below is a breakdown of the general admission requirements.
Eligibility for Postgraduate Diplomas and Master’s by Coursework
Candidates interested in Postgraduate Diplomas or Master’s programmes must meet the following requirements:
- Bachelor’s Degree: Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree from UNILAG or any recognized university.
- Recognized Qualifications: Candidates with equivalent qualifications that are recognized by the UNILAG Senate may also apply.
- Selection Process: Some programmes may require candidates to undergo a selection process, which could include written or oral examinations.
- Important Notices for Applicants:
- NYSC Completion: Nigerian applicants must have completed the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) programme. Those still enrolled in the NYSC or another postgraduate programme are not eligible to apply.
- Awaiting Results: Candidates awaiting Bachelor’s degree results are not permitted to apply.
- Outreach Degrees: Degrees obtained from satellite or outreach campuses are not accepted.
- Transcripts: All academic transcripts must be sent to the Deputy Registrar or Administrative Secretary at the School of Postgraduate Studies before the admission session begins.
Eligibility for M.Phil. and Ph.D. Programmes
For candidates applying to M.Phil. or Ph.D. programmes, the requirements are more stringent.
Master of Philosophy (M.Phil.):
- A Bachelor’s honours degree from UNILAG or any approved institution with at least a Second Class Upper Division.
- Alternatively, a Master’s degree with a CGPA of at least 3.50.
- Applicants must consult with the relevant department to confirm the availability of supervisors.
- Some departments may require a selection process.
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.):
- Candidates with a Master’s or Master of Philosophy degree must have a minimum CGPA of 4.0.
- Applicants should contact the respective department to check for supervisor availability and vacancies.
- A selection process may be required for Ph.D. candidates.
- Note that for M.Phil. and Ph.D. admissions, applications are only processed at the beginning of each semester, and candidates must submit transcripts of their Master’s degree or equivalent evidence of performance at the Master’s level.
Application Guidelines for UNILAG Postgraduate Programmes
The application process for UNILAG’s postgraduate programmes is streamlined through the School of Postgraduate Studies’ website. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply for the 2024/2025 session.
- Application Form Availability: Application forms will be available online from February 26 to August 30, 2024. Candidates should apply within this period to be considered.
- Online Submission: Completed application forms must be submitted online by September 13, 2024.
- Payment: A non-refundable application fee of N30,000 (Thirty Thousand Naira) is required. Payment can be made using the following methods:
- Remita Payment: Any commercial bank can process payment using the Remita Retrieval Reference (RRR) number generated on the application portal.
- Online Payment: Candidates may also choose to pay online using their bank debit card by selecting the “PayNow” option on the portal.
- Document Upload: Applicants must upload their digital passport photo in JPEG format, ensuring that it meets the specified size (15KB) and background requirements (white).
- Final Submission: Candidates should submit the form only after they have completely filled it out, as editing after submission will incur a N1,000 fee.
Additional Information for Applicants
Prospective students should keep the following in mind:
- Program Requirements: Each program has specific eligibility criteria, so applicants should confirm these details before applying.
- Document Verification: Ensure that all relevant documents, including NYSC certificates and degree certificates (not statements of results), are uploaded.
- Transcript Submission: Transcripts must be sent directly to the School of Postgraduate Studies at UNILAG before the session begins.
- Entrance Examination: Qualifying exams will be held from September 23 to 28, 2024, and candidates should regularly check the UNILAG School of Postgraduate Studies website for updates on examination schedules and other important announcements.
Mode of Study Options
UNILAG offers flexible study options to accommodate different schedules and commitments. Prospective students can choose from:
- Full-Time: Regular attendance on-campus.
- Part-Time: Suitable for working professionals, with classes held during weekends or evenings.
- Executive: Designed for executives and senior-level professionals.
- Open Distance Learning (ODL): For those who prefer online or hybrid learning formats.
Conclusion
The UNILAG postgraduate application process for the 2024/2025 session provides an opportunity for qualified candidates to pursue advanced degrees at a reputable institution known for excellence in research and education. By meeting the eligibility criteria and following the application guidelines, prospective students can enhance their chances of securing admission. UNILAG’s flexible study modes, including full-time, part-time, and distance learning options, make it an ideal choice for a wide range of students, from fresh graduates to working professionals.
For more information, applicants are encouraged to visit the official UNILAG School of Postgraduate Studies website at http://spgs.unilag.edu.ng, where additional details and contact information are available.
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