Easiest Biology Courses To Study In Nigerian Universities (2025): Less Competitive And High-Paying Options

Biology is one of the most fascinating branches of science, covering everything from plants and animals to microorganisms and the environment. While some biology-related courses can be highly competitive—like Medicine, Dentistry, or Pharmacy—there are several easier options that are less stressful to gain admission into yet still offer good earning potential.

In this guide, we highlight the easiest biology courses to study in Nigeria, why they’re less competitive, and the kind of careers and salaries they can lead to.

Quick Overview Table – Easier Biology-Related Courses in Nigeria

Course Highlights

1. Zoology & Botany

Zoology focuses on the study of animals, their behavior, and habitats, while Botany focuses on plants, their structure, growth, and uses. Both courses have lower admission competition and open doors to careers in conservation, research, and environmental work.

2. Microbiology

Microbiology deals with microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses. It’s a practical and in-demand course with applications in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, food safety, and research.

3. Animal & Soil Science

Animal Science trains students in livestock production and nutrition, while Soil Science focuses on soil health, fertility, and its role in agriculture. Both are less competitive and connect directly to Nigeria’s agricultural industry.

4. Science Laboratory Technology

This course equips students with hands-on laboratory skills. Graduates often work in hospitals, research labs, and industrial testing facilities.

5. Chemistry

Though often seen as challenging, Chemistry in a biology-related context is highly employable. Graduates work in manufacturing, forensic labs, agriculture, and environmental testing.

6. Environmental Science

An interdisciplinary course tackling pollution, sustainability, and natural resource management. It’s increasingly in demand due to climate change awareness.

7. Biology Education / General Biology

A broad-based biology degree that can lead to careers in teaching, laboratory work, and scientific research. It’s also a good stepping stone for postgraduate studies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Are these courses truly easier to gain admission into?
Yes. They generally require lower JAMB cut-off marks and attract fewer applicants compared to highly competitive courses like Medicine or Pharmacy.

Q2: Do these degrees lead to well-paying jobs?
Yes. Fields like Environmental Science, Microbiology, and Animal Science offer salaries ranging from ₦100,000 to ₦200,000 monthly, with higher potential in specialized or international roles.

Q3: Can I work abroad with these degrees?
Yes. Many of these courses are globally recognized, especially with additional certifications or postgraduate studies.

Q4: Which universities offer these courses?
Most federal, state, and private universities in Nigeria offer these programs, including University of Ibadan, UNILAG, UNN, and FUNAAB.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a biology-related degree that is less competitive to gain admission into yet offers strong career and income potential, the courses listed here are excellent choices. Whether you’re drawn to plants, animals, microbes, or the environment, there’s a pathway that matches your interests and job market needs.

Choosing one of these courses gives you the advantage of less admission stress, high employability, and the opportunity to work both locally and internationally.