Introduction
- The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) stands as a prominent figure in Nigeria’s higher education landscape. Established with the vision to expand access to quality education through flexible learning modes, NOUN has become the largest open and distance learning (ODL) institution in the country. Since its official commencement in 2003, the university has catered to thousands of students who, due to work, family, or geographical constraints, may not be able to attend traditional universities.
In 2009, NOUN officially launched its School of Postgraduate Studies (SPS), a strategic move that opened more academic opportunities for Nigerian graduates and professionals seeking to advance their careers. The school offers a wide range of programmes at the postgraduate diploma (PGD), master’s (MSc, MA, MBA, MPA, M.Ed.), and doctoral (PhD) levels.
Whether you’re a working-class individual looking to upgrade your qualifications, a researcher pursuing academic advancement, or someone simply interested in lifelong learning, NOUN offers programmes that are flexible, affordable, and accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC).
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the complete list of postgraduate programmes available at NOUN, covering PhD, MSc/MA/MBA/MPA, and PGD levels, along with their durations and key requirements.
PhD Programmes Offered at NOUN
Doctoral degrees at NOUN are designed for individuals seeking to contribute original research and scholarship to their fields. The programmes are rigorous and suited for those aiming for academic, research, or high-level policy roles.
Here are the current PhD courses available at the National Open University of Nigeria:
- PhD Mathematics Education
- PhD Business Administration
- PhD Public Administration
- PhD Peace Studies
- PhD Information Technology
- PhD Mass Communication
- PhD Christian Theology
- PhD Educational Administration
- PhD Educational Technology
- PhD Science Education
- PhD Educational Planning
These programmes typically require a minimum of a master’s degree in a relevant field, along with demonstrated research ability and academic excellence.
Master’s Degree Programmes Offered at NOUN
The master’s degree programmes at NOUN are structured to suit professionals from various fields who are looking to deepen their knowledge and improve their qualifications. Depending on the field, these can be Master of Science (MSc), Master of Arts (MA), Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Public Administration (MPA), or Master of Education (M.Ed.).
Full List of MSc, MA, MBA, MPA, and M.Ed. Courses at NOUN:
- M.Sc. Public Administration
- M.Sc. Entrepreneurship
- M.Sc. Information Technology
- M.Sc. Mass Communication
- M.Sc. Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution
- M.Sc. Criminology and Security Studies
- M.A. English
- M.A. Christian Religious Studies
- M.A. Islamic Studies
- M.Ed. Educational Technology
- M.Ed. Science Education
- M.Ed. Educational Administration and Planning
- M.Ed. Guidance and Counselling
- M.Sc. Public Health
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Master of Public Administration (MPA)
- M.Sc. Business Administration
These programmes are designed for individuals from a wide range of professional and academic backgrounds. For example, the M.Sc. in Criminology is ideal for those in law enforcement or security, while the MBA suits professionals in corporate, entrepreneurial, and business management sectors.
Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) Programmes at NOUN
For those who may not be eligible for direct admission into master’s degree programmes, NOUN provides a solid pathway through its Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) courses. These programmes are also suitable for professionals seeking specialized knowledge in a new field.
List of PGD Courses at NOUN:
- PGD. Entrepreneurship
- PGD. Information Technology
- PGD. Mass Communication
- PGD. Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution
- PGD. Criminology and Security Studies
- PGD. Economics
- PGD. Agricultural Extension and Management
- PGD. Christian Religious Studies
- PGD. Education
- PGD. Business Administration
- PGD. Public Administration
These programmes typically last 18 months and can also serve as a qualifying step for those intending to pursue a master’s degree at a later stage.
Duration of NOUN Postgraduate Programmes
Understanding how long each programme lasts can help prospective students plan their schedules effectively, especially for those balancing work and studies.
1. Master’s Degree Duration
- Full-Time: Typically completed in 24 months (2 years).
- Part-Time: May extend to 30 calendar months, depending on course load and pace.
2. Postgraduate Diploma Duration
PGD programmes at NOUN generally run for 18 calendar months. This includes both coursework and the submission of a research project or dissertation.
Admission Notes: Can HND Holders Apply for Master’s Degree at NOUN?
This is a common question among prospective applicants. The answer is no, NOUN does not admit Higher National Diploma (HND) holders directly into its master’s degree programmes. However, HND graduates are welcome to apply for Postgraduate Diploma programmes in their relevant or desired fields.
Upon successful completion of the PGD programme, HND holders can then apply for admission into a master’s degree programme, provided they meet other academic requirements.
Conclusion
The National Open University of Nigeria remains a top choice for Nigerians who seek postgraduate qualifications without having to compromise their jobs or family responsibilities. With over a decade of experience in postgraduate education, NOUN continues to improve access to quality education and professional development.
All programmes at NOUN are accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC), making its certificates recognized for employment, academic advancement, and professional use both within and outside Nigeria.
Whether you’re aiming to deepen your expertise in a specialized field, climb the career ladder, or embark on academic research, NOUN offers a pathway that suits your goals with the flexibility that modern learners need.
If you’re ready to start a postgraduate journey tailored to your lifestyle and schedule, NOUN might just be the right institution for you.
