How Many Years Does It Take to Become a Nurse in Nigeria? Nursing is one of the most respected and fulfilling professions in Nigeria. Nurses play a vital role in the healthcare system — providing care, promoting health, preventing illness, and helping patients recover from sickness and injury.
If you’ve ever asked yourself, “How many years does it take to become a nurse in Nigeria?”, the answer depends on the path you choose. There are multiple ways to become a nurse, and each comes with its own duration, qualifications, and career opportunities.
Let’s explore them in detail.
1. School of Nursing Route (Registered Nurse – RN)
Overview
The School of Nursing route is the most traditional pathway and has trained thousands of Nigerian nurses over the decades. It is designed for students who want to become Registered Nurses (RNs) through a direct, hands-on approach without necessarily earning a university degree.
These schools are usually attached to teaching hospitals or federal/state hospitals, and they operate under the supervision of the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN).
Duration
The full programme runs for three (3) years, divided into six semesters. During this period, students undergo both classroom instruction and clinical training in hospitals.
- Year 1: Introduction to basic nursing sciences, anatomy, physiology, and microbiology. Students also learn nursing ethics and patient communication.
- Year 2: Practical clinical exposure begins. Students rotate across major departments like medical-surgical, pediatric, and community health nursing.
- Year 3: Advanced nursing care, leadership, and preparation for the NMCN licensing examination.
Certification
After completing the programme and passing the NMCN exams, graduates earn the title of Registered Nurse (RN).
This qualification allows you to work as a professional nurse in both private and government hospitals in Nigeria.
Advantages
- Shorter duration (3 years)
- Focused on practical training
- Immediate employability after registration
Limitations
- Does not award a university degree
- Career advancement might require bridging to a BSc Nursing or Post-Basic programme
2. University Route (Bachelor of Nursing Science – B.N.Sc)
Overview
The university route is for those who want a professional degree in nursing — not just a certificate.
Students who pursue this path graduate with a Bachelor of Nursing Science (B.N.Sc) degree, which qualifies them as a Registered Nurse (RN) and Registered Midwife (RM) after NMCN examinations.
This route combines academic knowledge, research, and practical experience, preparing graduates for leadership, public health, and international career opportunities.
Duration
The BSc Nursing programme lasts for five (5) years in most universities.
It includes both academic courses and mandatory clinical rotations.
Programme Breakdown
- Years 1–2: Foundation courses — biology, chemistry, physics, anatomy, physiology, psychology, and basic nursing principles.
- Years 3–4: Core nursing courses — adult health nursing, maternal and child health, mental health nursing, and medical-surgical nursing.
Students also participate in clinical postings in teaching hospitals. - Year 5: Focus on nursing research, community health, and leadership. Students must also complete a final-year project and write the professional qualifying exams.
Certification
After successfully completing the programme and the NMCN exams, you earn:
- Bachelor of Nursing Science (B.N.Sc) degree
- Registered Nurse (RN) license
- Registered Midwife (RM) license
This means you’re recognized both as a nurse and a midwife — opening doors for diverse job roles in hospitals, NGOs, and international institutions.
Advantages
- University degree + professional license
- Opens global opportunities (UK, Canada, USA, etc.)
- Higher earning potential and promotion prospects
Limitations
- Longer duration (5 years)
- Competitive admission process (usually requires a high JAMB score)
3. Post-Basic Nursing Programme (Specialization Route)
Overview
After becoming a Registered Nurse, many professionals choose to specialize in a particular area of nursing. This is where Post-Basic Nursing comes in.
It is a one to two-year advanced training designed for RNs who want to expand their knowledge and become experts in specific nursing fields.
Duration
The programme duration depends on the specialty, typically lasting 12 to 24 months.
Popular Specializations
- Midwifery – focuses on pregnancy, childbirth, and maternal care.
- Public Health Nursing – trains nurses for community and preventive health services.
- Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing – focuses on emotional and mental disorders.
- Perioperative Nursing – specialization in surgical nursing and operating theatre management.
- Orthopedic Nursing – deals with bone, muscle, and joint injuries.
- Ophthalmic Nursing – focuses on eye health and vision care.
Certification
After training, nurses are awarded a Post-Basic Certificate in their chosen field, along with additional registration under the NMCN.
Advantages
- Provides specialization and career growth
- Higher job demand and pay scale
- Can lead to academic or managerial positions
4. College of Nursing Science (ND/HND Nursing)
Overview
The ND/HND Nursing programme is the newest and most modernized approach to nursing education in Nigeria.
This structure was introduced as part of the Nursing Reform Policy by the NMCN to align nursing education with the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) standards.
It is gradually replacing the traditional School of Nursing system in some states.
Duration
The programme spans 4 to 5 years, broken down as follows:
- National Diploma (ND) in Nursing: 2 years
- Clinical Posting/Industrial Training: 1 year
- Higher National Diploma (HND) in Nursing: 2 years
Curriculum Focus
The ND covers foundational health and nursing sciences, while the HND emphasizes advanced clinical skills, research, and leadership training.
Students are also required to participate in clinical practice throughout the course, supervised by qualified nurses in teaching hospitals.
Certification
Graduates are awarded:
- HND in Nursing
- Registered Nurse (RN) and Registered Midwife (RM) certifications after passing NMCN exams.
They can later apply for a top-up Bachelor’s degree (BSc Nursing) locally or abroad if they wish.
Advantages
- Modernized and structured like polytechnic programmes
- Includes both academic and practical exposure
- Easy transition to university-level degrees
5. Comparing All Pathways
| Pathway | Duration | Qualification Awarded | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| School of Nursing | 3 years | RN | Students who want to start working quickly |
| University (BSc Nursing) | 5 years | B.N.Sc + RN + RM | Students who want a degree and global opportunities |
| Post-Basic Nursing | 1–2 years | Specialty Certificate | Registered Nurses seeking specialization |
| ND/HND Nursing | 4–5 years | HND + RN/RM | Students in colleges of nursing under NBTE |
6. Career Opportunities for Nurses in Nigeria
Nurses are in high demand both in Nigeria and abroad. Depending on your qualification, you can work in:
- Hospitals and teaching hospitals (federal, state, or private)
- Community health centres
- Military and paramilitary medical services
- Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
- Nursing education institutions (as tutors or researchers)
- International healthcare systems (UK, Canada, USA, etc.)
With additional qualifications or experience, nurses can also become:
Healthcare managers
Nurse educators
Public health officers
Nurse administrators
Midwifery consultants
Conclusion
Becoming a nurse in Nigeria requires dedication, empathy, and patience — but the reward is worth it.
Whether you start through a School of Nursing, a University, or a College of Nursing Science, each route equips you with the knowledge and skills to serve humanity and build a successful career.
If you’re planning to begin your journey, research accredited schools, understand their admission requirements, and choose the path that fits your goals best.
