Computer Science has emerged as the most popular course among university applicants in Nigeria, reflecting the increasing dominance of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in various aspects of life, according to education expert Alhaja Muinah Gbadamosi.
Gbadamosi explained that today's youth, often referred to as "computer youths," are drawn to computer science because it is an "easy" course that is already integrated into their daily lives.
She also noted that computer science serves as a gateway to the rapidly growing field of Artificial Intelligence.
According to data from the Federal Ministry of Education (FMOE), computer science, microbiology, accountancy, and mass communications were the top four courses by admission into universities across the country during the 2022/2023 academic session.
Other popular courses included biochemistry, political science, business administration, economics, sociology, and medical laboratory science.
The FMOE data revealed that a total of 23,732 students were admitted into various public and private universities, with Imo, Delta, and Anambra states having the highest number of candidates.
Microbiology had 16,440 students admitted, with Benue, Imo, and Ondo states topping the list.
Accountancy/Accounting saw 14,303 students admitted, with Oyo, Ogun, and Imo states having the highest number of candidates.
Mass Communication, the fourth most popular course, had 14,009 students admitted, with Imo, Delta, and Ogun states having the highest number of students. Biochemistry and political science followed with 13,662 and 11,482 students admitted, respectively.
Business administration and economics had 10,043 and 8,925 students admitted, respectively, with Anambra and Oyo states having the highest number of students for business administration and economics, respectively.
Sociology and medical laboratory science rounded out the top ten courses, with 7,774 and 7,484 students admitted, respectively, with Kogi and Imo states having the highest number of students for sociology and medical laboratory science, respectively.
The rise in computer science admissions highlights the growing importance of ICT in higher education and the need for students to acquire skills in this field to remain competitive in the job market.
