NOUN Computer Science Requirements (2026/2027): O'Level Subjects, Direct Entry, School Fees & Duration

If you want to study Computer Science at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), one of the first things to check is whether you meet the admission requirements. Knowing the correct O'Level subjects, Direct Entry qualifications, programme duration, and estimated school fees can save you time and help you prepare for admission.

This guide explains everything you need to know about the NOUN Computer Science requirements for the 2026/2027 admission session, including the compulsory subjects, Direct Entry options, common questions, and career opportunities after graduation.

Quick Summary

Before going into the details, here are the key requirements for admission into the B.Sc. Computer Science programme at NOUN.

About the NOUN B.Sc. Computer Science Programme

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science is offered by the Faculty of Computing at the National Open University of Nigeria. The programme is designed to equip students with practical and theoretical knowledge in software development, programming, databases, networking, artificial intelligence, operating systems, cybersecurity, data structures, and other core areas of computing.

Because NOUN operates an Open and Distance Learning system, students can study while working, running a business, or managing other responsibilities. Learning is flexible and learner-centred: you can study at your own pace through study centres across the country, and fees are structured so learners can pay as they study.

NOUN Computer Science O'Level Requirements

To be considered for admission into the B.Sc. Computer Science programme, you must have at least five credit passes in SSC or GCE O'Level, or 6 merits in NABTEB or TC II examinations.

Accepted examination bodies include:

• WAEC / SSC
• NECO
• GCE O'Level
• NABTEB (6 merits)
• TC II (6 merits, where applicable)

Your results must include the following compulsory subjects.

You must then have credits in any two of the following science subjects:

• Chemistry
• Biology
• Further Mathematics
• Computer Studies

Note: Agricultural Science is listed for some related Computing programmes (such as Cyber Security), but it is not on the published elective list for B.Sc. Computer Science. Always confirm your combination on the official NOUN portal before applying.

As long as you have the required five credits (or 6 NABTEB/TC II merits), including the compulsory subjects, you can be considered for admission into the programme.

NOUN Direct Entry Requirements for Computer Science

If you already have post-secondary qualifications, you may be eligible for Direct Entry admission into the 200 Level.

In addition to meeting the O'Level requirements above, applicants should possess one of the following qualifications:

• National Diploma (ND/OND) in a relevant field
• Higher National Diploma (HND) in a relevant field
• National Certificate in Education (NCE) with a merit pass in Mathematics plus a credit in another science subject (preferably Physics or Chemistry)
• GCE Advanced Level passes in Mathematics and Physics

Applicants should ensure they satisfy all admission conditions before applying through the appropriate admission channel.

Is Mathematics Compulsory for Computer Science in NOUN?

Yes.

Mathematics is one of the compulsory O'Level subjects for admission into the Computer Science programme.

If you do not have a credit pass in Mathematics, you will not meet the basic admission requirement for the programme.

Is Physics Compulsory?

Yes.

Physics is also a compulsory subject for admission into NOUN's Computer Science programme.

Candidates without a credit in Physics will need to obtain the required result before they can qualify for admission.

Can I Study Computer Science with D7 in Mathematics?

No.

A credit pass in Mathematics is mandatory. Grades such as D7, E8, or F9 do not satisfy the admission requirements.

Can I Study Computer Science Without Physics?

No.

Physics is one of the compulsory subjects required for admission into the programme.

Can I Use WAEC or NECO?

Yes.

NOUN accepts results from recognised examination bodies, including:

• WAEC / SSC
• NECO
• GCE O'Level
• NABTEB (6 merits)
• TC II (6 merits)

Applicants should ensure they meet the required subject combination regardless of the examination body used.

NOUN Computer Science School Fees

The exact amount you pay depends on your level, course registration, and the current fee schedule approved by the university.

Generally, fresh undergraduate students should budget approximately ₦45,000 to ₦60,000 for their first-semester compulsory fees, excluding course and exam registration. Returning students pay lower fixed compulsory charges (around ₦18,000), while the final cost depends on the number of credit units registered during that semester.

Since fees may change from one admission session to another, it is always advisable to confirm the latest schedule through the official NOUN portal before making any payment.

How Many Years Is Computer Science in NOUN?

The duration depends on your entry qualification.

As an Open and Distance Learning institution, NOUN offers flexibility, allowing students to complete their studies while balancing work, family, or other commitments. Programmes can also be completed over a longer period than the standard duration where needed.

What Will You Study in Computer Science?

Students admitted into the programme will typically study courses in areas such as:

• Computer Programming
• Data Structures and Algorithms
• Database Systems
• Operating Systems
• Computer Networks
• Software Engineering
• Artificial Intelligence
• Web Development
• Cybersecurity
• Computer Architecture
• Mathematics for Computing
• Project Development

The curriculum is designed to prepare graduates for both employment and further studies.

Career Opportunities

A degree in Computer Science from NOUN can open doors to careers in both the public and private sectors.

Graduates may work as:

• Software Developer
• Web Developer
• Mobile App Developer
• Data Analyst
• Systems Analyst
• Database Administrator
• Network Administrator
• Cybersecurity Analyst
• IT Support Specialist
• Cloud Engineer
• Artificial Intelligence Engineer
• Technical Consultant
• Lecturer or Research Assistant

Many graduates also become freelancers, startup founders, or remote software engineers.

What If You Don't Meet the Requirements?

If you currently do not have the required credits in English Language, Mathematics, or Physics, you may need to improve your O'Level results before applying.

You can also explore related programmes in the Faculty of Computing that share a similar core (English, Mathematics, and Physics) but list slightly different elective subjects — for example:

• B.Sc. Information Technology (Programme Code: 5202) — electives may include Chemistry, Biology/Agricultural Science, Further Mathematics, and Computer Studies
• B.Sc. Cyber Security — electives may include Chemistry, Biology, Further Mathematics, Computer Studies, and Agricultural Science

Always confirm the latest subject lists on the official NOUN portal, as entry rules can differ by programme.

Conclusion

The admission requirements for Computer Science at NOUN are straightforward. As long as you have at least five O'Level credits (or 6 NABTEB/TC II merits), including English Language, Mathematics, and Physics, plus two approved science electives, you satisfy the basic academic requirement for admission. Candidates applying through Direct Entry must also possess an approved higher qualification such as an ND, HND, NCE, or A-Level certificate.

Before submitting your application, always verify the latest admission guidelines published by NOUN, as entry requirements and administrative procedures may change from one admission cycle to another.

If you are planning to study Computer Science, preparing your documents early and confirming that your O'Level subject combination is complete will help make the admission process much smoother.

FAQs

What are the NOUN Computer Science requirements?

You need at least five O'Level credits (or 6 merits in NABTEB/TC II), including English Language, Mathematics, and Physics, plus two other approved science subjects from Chemistry, Biology, Further Mathematics, and Computer Studies.

Is Mathematics compulsory for Computer Science in NOUN?

Yes. A credit pass in Mathematics is compulsory for admission.

Is Physics compulsory?

Yes. Physics is one of the required O'Level subjects for the programme.

Can I study Computer Science in NOUN with D7 in Mathematics?

No. You must have at least a credit pass in Mathematics.

Does NOUN accept NECO for Computer Science?

Yes. NOUN accepts NECO, WAEC, GCE O'Level, NABTEB (6 merits), TC II (6 merits), and other approved equivalent qualifications.

Can I gain Direct Entry admission into Computer Science at NOUN?

Yes. Qualified candidates with an ND, HND, NCE (merit in Mathematics plus a science credit), or GCE A-Level in Mathematics and Physics may apply for Direct Entry into 200 Level, provided they also meet the O'Level requirements.

How much are NOUN Computer Science school fees?

The amount varies depending on your level and the current fee schedule approved by the university. Fresh students generally pay higher compulsory fees than returning students, so you should always check the latest fees before applying.

How many years is Computer Science in NOUN?

The programme typically lasts four years for students admitted through the 100 Level route and about three years for qualified Direct Entry students.

Is NOUN Computer Science accredited?

Yes. The programme is offered by the Faculty of Computing and is accredited by the appropriate regulatory authorities in Nigeria.

Can working professionals study Computer Science at NOUN?

Yes. One of the major advantages of NOUN is its flexible Open and Distance Learning system, which allows students to combine their studies with work or other responsibilities.