Obafemi Awolowo University
Africa's intellectual beacon, shaping futures since 1961.
📍 Ile-Ife, Nigeria 🇳🇬
🏆 #5 in Nigeria · QS World #1201 · THE World #1501
Quick Facts about Obafemi Awolowo University
- Founded: 1961
- Type: Public
- Students: 35,000
- Campus: Suburban
- Tuition: $1,800 – $5,500/year
- Language: English
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
- Intakes: Fall, Spring
About Obafemi Awolowo University
Academics
OAU boasts 13 faculties and two colleges, the Postgraduate College and the College of Health Sciences, administering over 60 departments. The university offers extensive programs spanning the humanities, arts, natural sciences, social sciences, medical sciences, engineering, and technology. Notable programs include those in engineering, law, and the humanities. OAU is recognized for pioneering entrepreneurship education at the undergraduate level, a model adopted nationally, and is a leading ICT university with advanced internet infrastructure.
International Students
While specific diversity statistics for international students are not readily available, OAU offers English-taught programs across its faculties, such as a Bachelor of Arts in English. The university has a well-developed Information and Communication Technology (ICT) system, providing internet access across the central campus and in all halls of residence. Student organizations like the Association of Campus Journalists and Junior Chamber International Nigeria (JCIN-OAU) offer opportunities for cultural integration and skill development.
Campus & Location
The OAU campus in Ile-Ife is built on approximately 5,000 acres, featuring a distinctive architectural style influenced by Bauhaus principles and designed to suit the tropical climate. Ile-Ife is an ancient Yoruba city, known as the "Cradle of Yoruba Civilization," rich in cultural heritage and historical significance. On-campus transportation is being modernized with new buses and a bus stop. Nearby attractions include the OAU Museum, the Ile-Ife Zoological Garden, and the Ooni of Ife's Palace.
Career Outcomes
OAU emphasizes research and community engagement, encouraging students to participate in projects addressing real-world issues. The university actively fosters partnerships with industry, government agencies, and professional bodies to enhance the relevance and impact of its academic output. Graduates are often well-prepared for competitive job markets, with an OAU degree recognized for rigorous training and critical thinking skills. Notable alumni have achieved prominence in various fields, including politics, law, and business. The university also has a career services department to support students.
Information for International Students at Obafemi Awolowo University
Obafemi Awolowo University in Ile-Ife, Nigeria welcomes international students.
- No visa support offered
- No on-campus work
- Student housing available
- Teaching languages: English
Admissions Requirements for Obafemi Awolowo University
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Obafemi Awolowo University:
- Selectivity: Very Selective (<20%)
- Application deadline: July 31, 2025
Programs at Obafemi Awolowo University (28 programs)
Obafemi Awolowo University offers 28 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (14)
- English Language (BA) — 48 months · English
Students explore the English language through linguistics, literature, and communication studies, enhancing their analytical and expressive skills.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: Teacher, Editor, Journalist - Civil Engineering (BEng) — 60 months · English · STEM
Students are trained in the design, construction, and maintenance of physical and naturally built environments, including roads, bridges, canals, dams, and buildings.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Civil Engineer, Structural Engineer, Project Manager - Agricultural Economics (BSc) — 60 months · English · STEM
This program focuses on the application of economic principles to the agricultural sector, covering topics like farm management, agricultural marketing, and policy analysis.
Field: Agriculture
Career outcomes: Agricultural Economist, Farm Manager, Policy Analyst - Pharmacy (BPharm) — 60 months · English · STEM
Students learn about drug discovery, development, formulation, and safe and effective use of medications, preparing them for roles in pharmaceutical care.
Field: Pharmacy
Career outcomes: Pharmacist, Pharmaceutical Researcher, Drug Regulatory Affairs Officer - Political Science (BSc) — 48 months · English
This program examines political systems, theories, and behaviors, including international relations, public administration, and comparative politics.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Political Analyst, Public Administrator, Diplomat - Biochemistry (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program explores the chemical processes within living organisms, covering molecular biology, metabolism, genetics, and the structure and function of biomolecules.
Field: Science
Career outcomes: Biochemist, Research Scientist, Medical Laboratory Scientist - Economics (BSc) — 48 months · English
Students study how societies allocate scarce resources, covering microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and economic policy analysis.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Economist, Financial Analyst, Market Researcher - Business Administration (BSc) — 48 months · English
Students learn core business functions including management, marketing, finance, and human resources, preparing them for leadership roles in various industries.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Business Manager, Marketing Specialist, Financial Advisor - Computer Science (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program covers the theoretical foundations of information and computation, alongside practical techniques for the design and implementation of computing systems.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Engineer, Data Scientist, Network Administrator - Medicine and Surgery (MBChB) — 84 months · English · STEM
A rigorous program training future medical doctors in clinical skills, medical knowledge, and ethical practice, covering various medical specialties.
Field: Medicine
Career outcomes: Medical Doctor, Surgeon, General Practitioner - Architecture (BSc) — 72 months · English · STEM
Students learn the art and science of designing buildings and other physical structures, encompassing architectural history, theory, construction, and sustainable design practices.
Field: Architecture
Career outcomes: Architect, Urban Planner, Construction Manager - Law (LLB) — 60 months · English
This program provides a comprehensive understanding of legal principles, systems, and practices, preparing students for careers in the legal profession.
Field: Law
Career outcomes: Lawyer, Judge, Legal Advisor - Accounting (BSc) — 48 months · English
This program provides a comprehensive understanding of financial reporting, auditing, taxation, and management accounting principles and practices.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Accountant, Auditor, Financial Analyst - Estate Management (BSc) — 60 months · English
Students learn about the valuation, development, and management of land and property, covering real estate economics, law, and planning.
Field: Environmental Design and Management
Career outcomes: Estate Surveyor, Property Manager, Real Estate Developer
Master Programs (6)
- MSc Computer Science (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This master's program delves deeper into advanced topics in computer science, including artificial intelligence, data science, and software engineering.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Senior Software Developer, AI Engineer, Research Scientist - MSc Environmental Control and Management (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This program addresses environmental challenges through interdisciplinary approaches, focusing on sustainable resource management, pollution control, and environmental policy.
Field: Environmental Science
Career outcomes: Environmental Consultant, Conservation Scientist, Environmental Manager - MSc Chemical Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This program provides advanced knowledge in chemical process design, optimization, and control, with applications in various industries including petroleum, pharmaceuticals, and environmental engineering.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Chemical Engineer, Process Development Engineer, Research and Development Scientist - MSc Public Health (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This program focuses on improving community health through epidemiology, health policy, and health promotion, addressing global health challenges.
Field: Public Health
Career outcomes: Public Health Specialist, Epidemiologist, Health Administrator - MSc Economics (MSc) — 24 months · English
An advanced study of economic theory and quantitative methods, preparing students for research, policy analysis, and specialized roles in economics.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Economic Consultant, Policy Analyst, Researcher - Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 24 months · English
An advanced program designed to develop leadership and management skills, covering areas like finance, marketing, operations, and strategic management.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Business Consultant, Senior Manager, Entrepreneur
PhD Programs (8)
- PhD in English Language (PhD) — 36 months · English
A doctoral program for in-depth research in English language and literature, focusing on critical analysis, linguistic theory, and literary criticism.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: University Professor, Literary Critic, Researcher - PhD in Physics (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
An advanced research degree in physics, allowing students to specialize in areas such as theoretical physics, condensed matter physics, or astrophysics.
Field: Physics
Career outcomes: Research Physicist, University Professor, Data Scientist - PhD in Agricultural Economics (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
A research-intensive program focusing on advanced theories and methodologies in agricultural economics, culminating in a doctoral dissertation.
Field: Agriculture
Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Scientist, Policy Consultant - PhD Agricultural Economics (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
This doctoral program involves advanced research in agricultural economics, focusing on original contributions to knowledge in areas like food security, rural development, and agricultural policy.
Field: Agriculture
Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Researcher, International Development Consultant - PhD Biochemistry (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
A research-intensive program focusing on cutting-edge biochemical investigations, leading to significant contributions in areas such as disease mechanisms, drug discovery, or biotechnology.
Field: Science
Career outcomes: Academic Researcher, Biotech Scientist, Pharmaceutical R&D - PhD Law (PhD) — 36 months · English
This program involves in-depth legal research and scholarly writing, culminating in a dissertation that makes an original contribution to legal knowledge and jurisprudence.
Field: Law
Career outcomes: Legal Scholar, University Professor of Law, Policy Advisor - PhD Computer Science (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
A doctoral program focused on original research in advanced computer science topics, contributing new knowledge to fields like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, or theoretical computer science.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Professor, Lead Software Architect - PhD Civil Engineering (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
This doctoral program involves advanced research in various specializations of civil engineering, such as structural engineering, transportation engineering, or water resources engineering.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: University Lecturer, Senior Civil Engineer, Research and Development Engineer
Scholarships & Tuition at Obafemi Awolowo University
Annual tuition for international students: $1,800 – $5,500/year
✅ Obafemi Awolowo University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of Obafemi Awolowo University
- National Ranking: #5 in Nigeria
- QS World University Ranking: #1201
- Times Higher Education (THE): #1501
- Ranking tier: Top 500
- Research output: High
Campus & Facilities at Obafemi Awolowo University
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- No disability support info
- Campus type: Suburban
Key Highlights
- Established 1961 federal university
- Pioneering entrepreneurship education
- Leading ICT university
- Diverse programs across many fields
- Distinctive Bauhaus-influenced architecture
- Ile-Ife cultural heritage location
Accreditation
- National Universities Commission
Fields of Study at Obafemi Awolowo University
- Engineering
- Sciences
- Arts
- Social Sciences
- Agriculture
Notable Alumni
- Wole Soyinka
- Femi Falana
- Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi
- Abike Dabiri
- Biyi Bandele
Frequently Asked Questions about Obafemi Awolowo University
What is Obafemi Awolowo University?
Obafemi Awolowo University is a public university located in Ile-Ife, Nigeria, founded in 1961. It has approximately 35,000 students.
How much does it cost to study at Obafemi Awolowo University?
Tuition fees at Obafemi Awolowo University for international students range from $1,800 – $5,500/year. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for Obafemi Awolowo University?
Selectivity: Very Selective (<20%). Application deadline: July 31, 2025.
What language are courses taught in at Obafemi Awolowo University?
Courses at Obafemi Awolowo University are taught in English.
How many programs does Obafemi Awolowo University offer?
Obafemi Awolowo University offers 28 programs: 14 Bachelor's, 6 Master's, and 8 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is Obafemi Awolowo University ranked?
#5 in Nigeria · QS World #1201 · THE World #1501.
Does Obafemi Awolowo University offer scholarships?
Yes, Obafemi Awolowo University offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
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