NOUN Nursing Requirements (2026/2027): O'Level Subjects, RN Requirements, School Fees & Duration
Learn the NOUN Nursing requirements for the 2026/2027 admission session, including O'Level subjects, RN and NMCN requirements, programme duration, school fees, and frequently asked questions.
If you're planning to study Nursing at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), it's important to understand that the admission requirements are different from those of many conventional universities.
Unlike most universities that admit candidates into Nursing through UTME, the Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc) programme at NOUN is designed for qualified Registered Nurses (RNs) who want to earn a bachelor's degree while continuing their professional practice. Admission is into 200 Level.
This guide explains the NOUN Nursing requirements for the 2026/2027 admission session, including the required O'Level subjects, professional qualifications, programme duration, and answers to frequently asked questions.
Quick Summary
Here's a quick overview of the admission requirements for the BNSc Nursing programme at NOUN.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc) |
| Faculty | Faculty of Health Sciences |
| Entry Level | 200 Level |
| O'Level Credits | Five credit passes |
| Maximum Sittings | Two sittings |
| Compulsory Subjects | English Language, Mathematics, Biology or Health Science, Chemistry, Physics |
| Professional Qualification | Registered Nurse (RN) Certificate (NMCN) |
| Practice Licence | Valid Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) licence |
| Clinical Experience | Minimum of six months post-qualification experience |
| Attestation | Letter of attestation from current place of clinical practice |
| Programme Duration | Typically about 4 years (minimum 8 semesters) from 200 Level entry |
About the NOUN Nursing Programme
The Bachelor of Nursing Science programme is a response to the need for practising nurses who cannot leave their jobs for conventional university education. It upgrades the knowledge and competencies of Registered Nurses so they can function as competitive professional nurses with a strong science base.
Since NOUN uses an Open and Distance Learning system, students can continue working while completing their degree through flexible learning supported by study centres.
The programme builds on existing nursing knowledge and prepares graduates for leadership, advanced clinical practice, education, management, and postgraduate studies.
Who Can Apply for Nursing at NOUN?
The BNSc programme is not intended for candidates who only have O'Level results.
It is designed for applicants who are already qualified Registered Nurses and meet the university's professional admission requirements.
Before applying, ensure you possess:
- the required O'Level subject combination
- an RN certificate recognised by the NMCN
- a valid NMCN practising licence
- at least six months of clinical work experience
- a letter of attestation from your current place of clinical practice
NOUN Nursing O'Level Requirements
Applicants must have at least five credit passes in not more than two sittings.
Accepted examination bodies listed for the programme include:
- WAEC / WASCE / SSCE
- NECO
Your results must include credits in the following subjects.
| Subject | Required |
|---|---|
| English Language | Yes |
| Mathematics | Yes |
| Biology or Health Science | Yes |
| Chemistry | Yes |
| Physics | Yes |
These are the minimum academic requirements. Meeting the O'Level requirement alone does not qualify you for admission; you must also meet the professional nursing requirements for 200 Level entry.
Professional Requirements
In addition to the O'Level requirements, applicants must present the following professional qualifications and documents.
Registered Nurse (RN) Certificate
Applicants must hold a Registered Nurse (RN) certificate of the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN).
Valid NMCN Practice Licence
A current practising licence issued by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria is required.
Clinical Work Experience
Applicants must have completed at least six months of post-qualification clinical practice.
Letter of Attestation
Candidates must submit a letter of attestation from their current place of clinical practice confirming their professional experience.
Do You Need JAMB to Study Nursing at NOUN?
NOUN does not require candidates to write UTME before applying for admission.
However, admitted students may be required to complete the university's admission regularisation process in line with national admission guidelines.
Can I Study Nursing at NOUN Without Being a Registered Nurse?
No.
The BNSc programme is intended for practising Registered Nurses who already possess the required professional qualifications.
If you are not yet a Registered Nurse, you should first complete an approved nursing training programme and obtain NMCN registration before considering admission into NOUN's BNSc programme.
Can I Study Nursing with Only WAEC?
No.
Having the required O'Level subjects alone does not qualify you for admission into the BNSc programme.
You must also meet the professional nursing requirements, including the RN certificate, a valid NMCN licence, six months of clinical experience, and a letter of attestation.
Can I Study Nursing Without Chemistry?
No.
Chemistry is one of the compulsory science subjects required for admission.
Is Mathematics Compulsory?
Yes.
A credit pass in Mathematics is required.
Is Physics Compulsory?
Yes.
Physics is one of the compulsory O'Level subjects.
NOUN Nursing School Fees
School fees vary depending on the academic session and the university's approved fee schedule.
New students typically pay registration and other compulsory charges, while continuing students pay registration, course, and examination fees based on the number of courses they register.
Applicants should always confirm the latest fees through the official NOUN portal before making any payment.
How Many Years Is Nursing at NOUN?
Because admission is into 200 Level, the programme typically takes about four years (a minimum of eight semesters) from the point of entry.
| Detail | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Entry Level | 200 Level |
| Typical Duration | About 4 years (minimum 8 semesters) |
| Minimum Credit Units | At least 148 credit units, including 18 university elective units |
| Core Courses | All compulsory (core) courses must be passed |
Since NOUN uses a flexible Open and Distance Learning system, the time taken to complete the programme may vary slightly depending on your academic progress, course registration, and clinical requirements.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the BNSc programme can pursue careers such as:
- Acute Care Nurse
- Community Nursing Professional
- Critical Care Nurse
- Emergency Room Nurse
- Occupational Health Nurse
- Pediatric Nurse
- Outpatient Care Nurse
- Hospice Nurse
- Health Administration Nurse
- Nursing Informatics Specialist
- Nurse Educator
- Clinical Nurse Manager
- Public Health Nurse
- Nursing Researcher
- Healthcare Consultant
- Nursing Lecturer
A BNSc degree can also provide a pathway to postgraduate programmes in Nursing and related healthcare disciplines.
Why Choose NOUN for Nursing?
Many practising nurses choose NOUN because it offers:
- Flexible study while working
- Distance learning supported by study centres
- An opportunity to upgrade from RN to BNSc
- Career advancement and promotion opportunities
- Preparation for postgraduate education
What If You Don't Meet the Requirements?
If you do not have credits in Chemistry, Physics, Biology or Health Science, English Language, or Mathematics, you should improve your O'Level results before applying.
If you are not yet a Registered Nurse, or you do not have a valid NMCN practising licence and the required clinical experience, you will need to complete those professional steps first. O'Level results alone are not enough for admission into the BNSc programme.
Conclusion
The Nursing programme at NOUN is designed for practising Registered Nurses who want to earn a Bachelor of Nursing Science degree without interrupting their careers. Admission is into 200 Level.
Meeting the O'Level requirements is only one part of the process. Applicants must also present an RN certificate, a valid NMCN practising licence, proof of at least six months of clinical experience, and a letter of attestation from their current place of practice.
Before applying, always confirm the latest admission requirements and application procedures published by NOUN for the current admission cycle.
FAQs
What are the NOUN Nursing requirements?
Applicants need five O'Level credits in English Language, Mathematics, Biology or Health Science, Chemistry, and Physics in not more than two sittings, plus a Registered Nurse (RN) certificate, a valid NMCN practising licence, at least six months of clinical experience, and a letter of attestation from their current place of clinical practice.
Can I study Nursing at NOUN with only WAEC?
No. In addition to your O'Level results, you must also be a qualified Registered Nurse and meet the programme's professional admission requirements.
Does NOUN admit Nursing students through UTME?
No. The BNSc programme admits qualified Registered Nurses into 200 Level. It is not a UTME route for candidates with O'Level results only.
Do I need JAMB for Nursing at NOUN?
You do not need to sit for UTME to apply for admission into NOUN. However, admitted students may be required to complete JAMB regularisation as part of the admission process.
Is Chemistry compulsory for Nursing?
Yes. Chemistry is one of the compulsory O'Level subjects.
Is Physics compulsory?
Yes. Physics is also required for admission.
Is Mathematics compulsory?
Yes. Applicants must have a credit pass in Mathematics.
How many years is Nursing at NOUN?
The programme typically lasts about four years (a minimum of eight semesters) from 200 Level entry. Graduates are expected to complete at least 148 credit units, including 18 university elective units, and pass all core courses.
How much are NOUN Nursing school fees?
School fees vary by session and are subject to review by the university. Applicants should always check the latest approved fee schedule before applying.
Can a practising nurse upgrade to a BNSc at NOUN?
Yes. That is the primary purpose of the programme. It enables qualified Registered Nurses to earn a Bachelor of Nursing Science degree through NOUN's flexible Open and Distance Learning system while continuing to work.
About the Author
Mohammad-Jamiu B. Balogun, GMNSE
AI Security Researcher · Founder, MonoEd Africa
Mohammad-Jamiu is a First-Class Telecommunications Engineer (BUK) and AI security researcher. He founded MonoEd Africa to give Nigerian students AI-powered academic tools — from SIWES logbooks to final year projects. His work has reached over 10,000 students across Nigeria.
