If you’re wondering about the Best Art Courses to study in Nigeria, you’re not alone. Every year, thousands of students in Nigeria choose art-related courses because they want to turn their creativity into a career. The truth is, art courses go far beyond drawing or painting. They now include design, film, fashion, music, and even animation.
Whether you like working with your hands or on the computer, there is an art course that can accommodate your skill level and provide you with the opportunity to have hands-on experience.
In this article, in detail, the 10 best courses of study to study in Nigeria in 2026, what they involve, where to study them, and what one can study upon graduation are explained.
Table of contents
- What Are Art Courses in Nigeria?
- Why Study Art in Nigeria?
- 10 Best Art Courses to Study in Nigeria
- How Do These Courses Align with Nigeria’s Job Market?
- What are the Admission Requirements for Art Courses?
- How to Choose the Perfect Art Course
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Final Thoughts
- References
- Recommendations
What Are Art Courses in Nigeria?
Art courses are about creativity, communication, and expression. They instruct you to use performance, written, or visual means of communicating ideas. Art courses in Nigeria are offered by universities, colleges of education, and polytechnics.
They can be classified into:
- Visual arts, for instance, Fine Arts, Graphic Design, and Photography.
- Performing arts, for instance, Music and Theatre Arts.
- Applied arts, for instance, Fashion Design, Industrial Design, and Animation.
- Educational arts that blend pedagogy and imagination, like Art Education.
The courses teach students how to apply imagination in useful forms that can lead to education, media, fashion, entertainment, or digital technology professions.
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Why Study Art in Nigeria?
More individuals think that art is just for people who are very good at drawing, but no, it is not. Art classes assist in developing communication, problem-solving, as well as design-thinking abilities that one can use in almost every area of employment.
Nigeria’s creative industry is thriving — Nollywood, music, fashion, and digital graphics businesses are all expanding in leaps and bounds. With growth comes the unremitting need for designers, animators, content producers, and performers.
Thus, if you are a creative professional, studying art will lead you to a secure and rewarding profession, especially in 2026 and beyond.
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10 Best Art Courses to Study in Nigeria
If you’re a student with a creative mind or a passion for people, culture, and communication, then you’re probably asking: What are the best art courses to study in Nigeria? With so many amazing options out there, it can feel overwhelming.
But don’t worry, we’ve researched for you. Below are 10 of the top art courses in Nigeria, along with what they offer, career paths, and the best universities to study them.
1. Mass Communication
Mass Communication is one of the most popular and marketable art courses in Nigeria. It focuses on how information is shared through media such as radio, television, newspapers, and social media. You’ll learn about journalism, broadcasting, advertising, public relations, and digital communication.
It’s an excellent course for people who love writing, talking, storytelling, or keeping the public informed.
What you’ll learn:
- News writing and reporting
- Broadcast production and media presentation
- Advertising and marketing communication
- Digital media and social media management
Career opportunities:
- Journalist or news reporter
- Public relations officer
- TV or radio presenter
- Social media manager
- Media planner or content producer
Where to study:
University of Lagos, University of Nigeria Nsukka, Covenant University, and Babcock University.
Communication experts are in great demand in today’s digital world. If you possess the talent to narrate and relay information well, you will never be without a job in either the private or public sector.
2. Law
Law is one of the most valued art courses in Nigeria. It involves studying and interpreting law, rights, and justice. Students of law learn how to analyze cases, argue, and ensure justice prevails in society.
It is a challenging but fulfilling course. It involves reading, research, and analysis.
What you’ll learn:
- Constitutional, criminal, and contract law
- Human rights and legal ethics
- Legal writing and case analysis
- Advocacy and court procedures
Career opportunities:
- Lawyer or legal adviser
- Corporate legal advisor
- Judge or magistrate (after years of practice)
- Policy analyst or human rights activist
Where to study:
University of Ibadan, University of Lagos, Ahmadu Bello University, University of Nigeria Nsukka, and Obafemi Awolowo University.
Graduates of law can work in law firms, government ministries, NGOs, and international organizations. They can also pursue politics or business administration.
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3. English and Literary Studies
English and Literary Studies is suited for book enthusiasts, authors, and literary critics. It allows you to study language and how authors use it in expressing ideas and culture.
You’ll read novels, poetry, drama, and other types of writing by Nigerian, African, and international authors. You’ll also gain improved writing, editing, and communication skills.
What you’ll learn:
- Grammar and linguistics
- African and world literature
- Creative and academic writing
- Literary criticism and analysis
Career opportunities:
- Editor or publisher
- Writer or author
- English teacher or lecturer
- Mass communications or media expert
Where to study:
University of Ibadan, University of Lagos, University of Nigeria Nsukka, and University of Benin.
Graduates in English are needed in journalism, teaching, publishing, and corporate communications. The program builds creative and critical thinking skills applicable to any profession.
4. Theatre Arts
Theatre Arts is one of the most vibrant and creative art courses in Nigeria. It focuses on acting, directing, scriptwriting, stage management, and performance studies. You’ll learn how to bring stories to life on stage or screen.
This course builds confidence, teamwork, and communication skills. It’s perfect for people who love storytelling, drama, and entertainment.
What you’ll learn:
- Acting and performance
- Theatre production and directing
- Playwriting and stage design
- Film and television production
Career opportunities:
- Actor, director, or scriptwriter
- TV or film producer
- Event manager or stage designer
- Teacher of Performing Arts or lecturer
Where to study:
University of Calabar, University of Ibadan, University of Benin, and University of Lagos.
Theatre Arts graduates find employment in the film, television, radio, and event production industries. As the entertainment industry thrives in Nigeria, this course has never been more suitable.
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5. International Relations
International Relations is the examination of relations among nations. It will teach you diplomacy, international politics, international law, and foreign policy.
This is a suitable choice if you wish to become well-informed about global events and work for global institutions.
What you’ll learn:
- International politics and diplomacy
- Foreign policy and globalization
- Conflict resolution and peace studies
- International organizations and development
Career opportunities:
- Diplomat or ambassador
- Political analyst or researcher
- NGO or humanitarian officer
- Foreign service officer or immigration officer
Where to study:
Covenant University, Obafemi Awolowo University, University of Lagos, and Babcock University.
Graduates typically end up working with embassies, the United Nations, and foreign NGOs. The program also gives a good background for someone who wants to study international law or politics.
6. Linguistics
Linguistics is the scientific study of language — how it’s put together, how it functions, and how it’s used to communicate. Students study phonetics, syntax, semantics, and the evolution of languages.
It’s perfect for those who love studying how people speak and how languages shape cultures.
What you’ll learn:
- Phonology (sounds of language)
- Syntax and grammar
- Semantics and language meaning
- Sociolinguistics and psycholinguistics
Career opportunities:
- Language researcher or translator
- Speech therapist or linguist
- Dictionary compiler or language teacher
- Communication consultant
Where to study:
University of Ibadan, University of Nigeria Nsukka, and Ahmadu Bello University.
Linguistics finds use in education, communication, technology (e.g., speech recognition), and foreign business.
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7. Music
Music is a vocation and theoretical program that teaches one the art and science of sound. Students learn music theory, performance, and production. Nigerian traditional music, classical music, and modern genres are also covered.
If you’re passionate about singing, instruments, or music production, this course offers endless possibilities.
What you’ll learn:
- Music theory and composition
- Instrumental or vocal training
- Sound engineering and production
- Music business and copyright laws
Career opportunities:
- Musician or performer
- Music producer or composer
- Sound engineer or studio manager
- Music teacher or lecturer
Where to study:
University of Lagos, University of Nigeria Nsukka, and Obafemi Awolowo University.
Thanks to the global nature of Nigeria’s music industry, talented music graduates can now be employed locally and in other countries.
8. History and International Studies
History and International Studies allow you to learn about the past and how it shapes current global events. It prepares you for research, critical thinking, and analysis skills.
You will learn about global trends in development, international crises, and history in different regions of the world.
What you’ll learn:
- Nigerian and African history
- Global history and politics
- Historical research methods
- International relations and diplomacy
Career opportunities:
- Historian or researcher
- Diplomat or policy analyst
- Archivist or museum curator
- Lecturer or author
Where to study:
University of Ibadan, University of Lagos, and Ahmadu Bello University.
Students after graduation can work in education, foreign affairs, and government institutions. It’s a program for those who like research, telling stories, and analysis.
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9. Philosophy
Philosophy is the most mentally challenging art class. It will teach you how to think critically, challenge assumptions, and examine life’s most profound questions. The class will include study of ethics, logic, political philosophy, and metaphysics.
What you will learn:
- Logic and critical thinking
- Ethics and moral philosophy
- African and Western philosophy
- Political and social philosophy
Career opportunities:
- Lecturer or researcher
- Policy analyst or consultant
- Writer or editor
- Public administrator
Where to study
University of Lagos, University of Ibadan, and University of Nigeria Nsukka.
Philosophy helps students develop strong analytical skills useful in law, politics, business, and public service.
10. Fine and Applied Arts
Fine and Applied Arts focuses on creative visual expression. It covers drawing, painting, sculpture, ceramics, and design. The course trains students to express ideas through artistic skills and modern techniques.
What you’ll learn:
- Drawing and color theory
- Sculpture and ceramics
- Painting and mixed media
- Art history and criticism
Career opportunities:
- Visual artist or painter
- Art teacher or curator
- Illustrator or designer
- Photographer or creative director
Where to study:
University of Nigeria Nsukka, University of Benin, and Delta State University.
Fine Arts is ideal for hands-on work-oriented creatives. It also complements computer equipment, and therefore it is ideal for artists who would like to sell or showcase their work on the internet.
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How Do These Courses Align with Nigeria’s Job Market?
Most of the best art courses to study in Nigeria are highly in demand today. For example, law graduates are needed in both the public and private sectors.
Mass communication experts are required in the fast-growing media and telecommunications industries. Sociologists, educators, and political scientists are required in government ministries and non-governmental organizations. The above arts courses are not just required but also provide Nigeria with the skills to grow.
Foreign relations are backed by international relations experts as an example, and actors and performing artists assist in the preservation of Nigerian culture.
Most importantly, such a high employment rate in art courses in Nigeria offers comprehensive skills. It is possible to gain employment in most industries, such as education, media, law, government, and creative industries.
What are the Admission Requirements for Art Courses?
To pursue any of the best art courses Nigeria university programs offer, you shall have to meet some requirements, which are:
- WAEC/NECO: You need a minimum of five credits, including English Language and Literature in your WAEC or NECO. Government or History is also needed for some courses.
- JAMB UTME: You need to sit for the UTME exams and obtain a good grade. Subjects are usually English Language, Literature in English, Government, and CRS/IRS.
- Post-UTME: Some schools also carry out a Post-UTME exam for students.
Every school has a cutoff point. Mass communication and law, for example, may have higher JAMB scores because they are very competitive.
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How to Choose the Perfect Art Course
Before you choose any course, attempt to ask yourself:
- What you enjoy doing daily
- The kind of career or lifestyle you would love
- Your talent — hands-on imagination or computer skills
- The schools and facilities available
You can also talk to people who are already enrolled in that course, visit campuses, and study the curriculum to make sure it fits your fantasy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Some of the best colleges include University of Nigeria (Nsukka), University of Benin, University of Lagos, Ahmadu Bello University, and Obafemi Awolowo University. All of these universities are said to have good art departments and facilities.
It depends on the courses. Most require English Language and any three relevant art or social science subjects, such as Literature, Government, or Fine Arts.
Yes. Many art graduates freelance, establish studios, teach, or engage in creative industries like advertising, media, or entertainment.
Presently, the most profitable include graphic design, animation, fashion design, and photography, especially with freelancing or business opportunities.
Yes, provided you possess a good portfolio and skills of international standards. Nigeria designers and artists now mostly work online for clients in the US, UK, and Europe.
Final Thoughts
Art is not a hobby anymore. It’s now a career that involves business, technology, and creativity. The Best Art Courses to Study in Nigeria provide the students with a chance to make their dreams come true and learn useful skills.
Whatever you choose to do in Fine Arts, Graphic Design, Fashion, Theatre, or Animation, remember that talent will not be the key to fame and wealth — you must learn every day, work every day, and sell your art.
The creative economy in Nigeria is thriving, and prospects for artists, designers, and creatives have never been brighter. Provided you make wise choices and remain dedicated, your art can be your calling and your passion.
References
- Top 10 Best Art Courses to Study in Nigeria (Updated 2025)
- Top 10 Best Art Courses to Study in Nigeria 2025
