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

Mass Communication is one of the most popular programmes offered by the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN). It prepares students for careers in journalism, broadcasting, public relations, advertising, digital media, corporate communications, and content creation.

If you're considering applying, it's important to understand the admission requirements before starting your application. This guide explains the NOUN Mass Communication requirements for the 2026/2027 admission session, including the required O'Level subjects, Direct Entry qualifications, programme duration, school fees, and answers to the questions applicants ask most often.

Quick Summary

Here's a quick overview of the admission requirements for the B.Sc. Mass Communication programme.

About the NOUN Mass Communication Programme

The Bachelor of Science in Mass Communication equips students with the knowledge and practical skills needed for today's media industry. Students learn how information is produced, distributed, and consumed across newspapers, television, radio, online platforms, and social media.

The programme combines communication theory with practical media skills to prepare graduates for careers in traditional and digital media. The department also supports student training through practical media projects such as campus newspaper and magazine production.

Because NOUN operates an Open and Distance Learning system, students can complete their degree while working or managing other personal commitments.

NOUN Mass Communication O'Level Requirements

To qualify for admission into 100 Level, candidates must have at least five credit passes in not more than two sittings.

Accepted examination bodies include:

• SSCE / WAEC
• GCE O'Level
• NECO
• NABTEB

Your results must include the following compulsory subjects.

You must also have credits in any three other subjects to complete the five required passes.

Teachers' Grade II Certificate holders may also qualify with a minimum of five merits at not more than two sittings, including English Language and Mathematics, plus any other three subjects.

Meeting the correct subject combination is essential for admission.

NOUN Direct Entry Requirements for Mass Communication

Direct Entry into Mass Communication is available at 200 Level and 300 Level, depending on your qualification.

200 Level admission

Applicants may be considered for 200 Level with one of the following:

300 Level admission

Applicants may be considered for 300 Level with:

Concessional Admission for Mature Applicants

NOUN also provides concessional admission for some mature applicants.

Mature candidates who are 50 years of age and above, with ten years of cognate work experience, and who do not meet the standard requirements above, may write to the Vice Chancellor for concessional admission to the four-year programme in the department.

Applicants should always confirm the current eligibility requirements before applying.

Is Literature in English Compulsory?

For the undergraduate B.Sc. Mass Communication programme, Literature in English is not listed as a compulsory O'Level subject. The published undergraduate requirements emphasise English Language and Mathematics, plus three other subjects.

Note: Literature in English is required for some postgraduate Mass Communication pathways, such as the PGD. Always confirm the latest undergraduate checklist before applying.

Is Mathematics Compulsory?

Yes.

Mathematics is a compulsory O'Level subject for admission into B.Sc. Mass Communication at NOUN.

Can I Study Mass Communication Without Literature in English?

Based on the published undergraduate requirements, yes, provided you still have five credits including English Language and Mathematics.

If you already have Literature in English, it can count as one of your other subjects.

Can I Study Mass Communication with D7 in English?

No.

English Language is compulsory, and you must have at least a credit pass.

Can I Use WAEC or NECO?

Yes.

NOUN accepts recognised O'Level qualifications from:

• SSCE / WAEC
• NECO
• GCE O'Level
• NABTEB

Teachers' Grade II is also accepted where the candidate meets the merit requirements.

As long as your results satisfy the required subject combination, you are eligible to apply.

NOUN Mass Communication School Fees

School fees vary depending on the academic session, your level of study, and the university's approved fee schedule.

Fresh students generally pay registration and other compulsory charges before course registration, while returning students pay registration, course, and examination fees based on the courses they register.

Since fees may change, always check the latest approved fee schedule before making payment.

How Many Years Is Mass Communication in NOUN?

The duration depends on your admission route.

NOUN's flexible learning system allows students to complete their studies while balancing work, business, or family responsibilities.

What Will You Study?

Students enrolled in the programme typically study courses such as:

• Introduction to Mass Communication
• News Writing and Reporting
• Broadcast Journalism
• Public Relations
• Advertising
• Media Law and Ethics
• Development Communication
• Digital Media
• Communication Research
• Feature Writing
• Television Production
• Radio Production

These courses provide both theoretical knowledge and practical communication skills.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of Mass Communication have opportunities in many industries.

Common career paths include:

• Journalist
• News Reporter
• Broadcast Presenter
• Television Producer
• Radio Producer
• Public Relations Officer
• Corporate Communications Officer
• Digital Marketing Specialist
• Social Media Manager
• Copywriter
• Content Creator
• Media Consultant

Many graduates also establish careers as freelance writers, podcast hosts, YouTubers, or communication consultants.

What If You Don't Meet the Requirements?

If you do not have credits in English Language or Mathematics, improve your O'Level results before applying.

If you are applying through Direct Entry, check that your IJMB, OND, NCE, or HND result meets the minimum requirements for 200 Level or 300 Level admission.

Mature applicants who do not meet the standard academic requirements may also explore the concessional admission pathway if they meet the age and work-experience conditions.

Conclusion

Mass Communication remains one of the most exciting and versatile programmes at NOUN. Whether your goal is to become a journalist, broadcaster, media entrepreneur, public relations professional, or digital content creator, the programme provides the knowledge and skills needed to build a successful career.

Before submitting your application, ensure you meet the required O'Level subject combination and verify any Direct Entry qualifications using the latest admission guidelines published by NOUN.

If you qualify, studying Mass Communication through NOUN gives you the flexibility to earn a recognised degree while pursuing your career or other commitments.

FAQs

What are the NOUN Mass Communication requirements?

You need at least five O'Level credits in not more than two sittings, including English Language and Mathematics, plus three other subjects. Direct Entry applicants may also qualify for 200 Level with IJMB, OND, or NCE, or for 300 Level with an HND at Lower Credit, provided they meet the O'Level requirements.

Is Literature in English compulsory for Mass Communication at NOUN?

Not for the undergraduate B.Sc. programme, based on the published requirements. English Language and Mathematics are the compulsory O'Level subjects. Literature in English is required for some postgraduate Mass Communication pathways.

Is Mathematics compulsory?

Yes. Mathematics is required for admission into the programme.

Can I study Mass Communication without Literature in English?

Yes, for the undergraduate B.Sc., as long as you have five credits including English Language and Mathematics.

Can I study Mass Communication with D7 in English?

No. A credit pass in English Language is compulsory.

Does NOUN accept NECO for Mass Communication?

Yes. NOUN accepts NECO, WAEC/SSCE, GCE O'Level, NABTEB, and Teachers' Grade II where applicable.

Can I gain Direct Entry admission into Mass Communication?

Yes. Candidates may apply for 200 Level with IJMB, OND, NCE, or an OND in Mass Communication, or for 300 Level with an HND at Lower Credit, if they also meet the O'Level requirements.

How many years is Mass Communication at NOUN?

The programme typically lasts four years for 100 Level entry, about three years for 200 Level Direct Entry, and about two years for 300 Level Direct Entry, depending on academic progress.

How much are NOUN Mass Communication school fees?

School fees vary by academic session and level of study. Fresh students generally pay higher compulsory fees because of one-time registration charges.

Is Mass Communication a good course?

Yes. Mass Communication offers diverse career opportunities in journalism, broadcasting, public relations, advertising, corporate communications, digital media, and content creation. It is also a good choice for students interested in the growing media and communications industry.