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Library and information science JAMB combination: requirements and tips

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Library & Information Science (LIS) Admission in Nigeria: JAMB Combination Requirements, Eligibility, and Practical Tips

For many Nigerian students dreaming of a career that blends research, organization, and technology, the Library and Information Science (LIS) degree offers a unique blend of academic rigor and real‑world relevance. As the national admission system, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), continues to refine its entry requirements, aspiring LIS candidates need to know precisely what combinations of subjects will qualify them for a spot in university libraries, information centres, and archival institutions across the country. This article distills the key information from Legit.ng’s comprehensive guide on LIS admission, supplemented with insights from the JAMB website and the National Universities Commission (NUC) guidelines.


1. The Core Subject Combination

LIS is a multidisciplinary field that values both the humanities and the natural sciences. The most common and widely accepted JAMB subject combination for LIS is:

Major SubjectScience Requirement
EnglishPhysics
MathematicsBiology
BiologyChemistry

This blend reflects the profession’s demand for strong analytical and research skills, paired with a solid grounding in the biological sciences. Most universities, however, also consider alternative combinations such as English + Chemistry + Biology or English + Mathematics + Physics provided that the overall scores meet the threshold.


2. Minimum Score Requirements

While the overall JAMB score and the subject‑specific score thresholds vary slightly between universities, the general benchmarks are:

  • Overall JAMB score: ≥ 200 (out of 400, with a 25% cut‑off per subject).
  • Biology score: ≥ 50 (or the alternative science subject if Biology is not taken).
  • English score: ≥ 50.
  • Mathematics score: ≥ 50.

These figures are drawn from the latest data shared by the JAMB website (https://www.jamb.gov.ng/) and the NUC admission guidelines (https://www.nuc.edu.ng/). Some institutions, such as the University of Ibadan and Obafemi Awolowo University, maintain slightly higher cut‑offs (overall 220, subject 60) for competitive programmes. It is therefore prudent to aim for a buffer margin—ideally scoring above the minimums by at least 10 points.


3. Why Biology (or Equivalent) is Essential

The inclusion of a biological science reflects the profession’s focus on research methodology, data analysis, and information management in the health sciences. LIS graduates often work in hospital libraries, pharmaceutical research institutes, and public health information systems. Biology, therefore, provides foundational knowledge in classification, taxonomy, and scientific literature—skills indispensable for the field.


4. Application Process: Step‑by‑Step

  1. Create a JAMB Profile
    Visit the official JAMB portal, register, and fill in personal details.
  2. Upload Official Transcripts
    Upload scanned copies of your Senior Secondary School Certificate (SSSC) or equivalent.
  3. Select Intended Courses
    While JAMB itself does not specify LIS courses, you should note that the combination above is recommended by most universities.
  4. Pay the Examination Fee
    The fee is paid online via the JAMB portal.
  5. Take the Exam
    The written test usually takes place in the designated exam centers across Nigeria.
  6. Receive Results
    Scores are posted on the JAMB website; cross‑check your overall and subject scores.
  7. Apply to Universities
    Use the National Eligibility Test (NET) portal (https://www.jamb.gov.ng/portal/) or the individual university portals to apply for LIS. Pay attention to each university’s specific cut‑offs.

5. University Options for LIS

  • University of Ibadan (UI) – Offers a robust LIS curriculum focused on research, classification, and information technology.
  • Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) – Known for its emphasis on information science and digital libraries.
  • University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) – Strong program in Library and Information Science with ties to academic research centres.
  • Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) – Provides a well‑balanced course integrating traditional library science with modern ICT tools.
  • Babcock University – Offers a unique LIS track that blends Christian values with professional skill‑sets.

Each university lists its own prerequisites and cut‑off scores on its admissions page. Prospective students should consult the respective websites (e.g., UI Admissions, OAU Admissions) for the most up‑to‑date information.


6. Tips for Maximizing Your Chances

TipExplanation
Aim High on Core SubjectsScore at least 55–60 in English, Biology, and Mathematics to stay competitive.
Practice Timed TestsLIS demands efficient information retrieval; practicing under timed conditions helps you manage the 200‑minute JAMB exam.
Use Sample PapersJAMB publishes past papers on its website; solving these gives a realistic idea of question patterns.
Prepare a Statement of PurposeSome universities require an SOP that highlights your interest in LIS; articulate how your background aligns with the field.
Stay Updated on JAMB NewsJAMB frequently updates its exam schedule and guidelines; subscribe to the official newsletter.
Seek Guidance from Senior StudentsFormer LIS students can provide insights into the syllabus and exam experience.

7. Post‑Admission: Building a Career

Once admitted, LIS students gain a solid foundation in cataloguing, information retrieval, metadata, and digital archiving. Graduates often find roles in:

  • Academic libraries (e.g., university libraries, research institutes).
  • Corporate information services (e.g., legal, medical, and industrial R&D).
  • Digital libraries and knowledge management (e.g., e‑library platforms, open‑access initiatives).
  • Archival and heritage preservation (e.g., national archives, museums).

Continuous professional development—certifications in Library 2.0, data analytics, and emerging digital tools—further enhances career prospects.


8. Final Takeaway

The Library and Information Science pathway demands a blend of linguistic, mathematical, and scientific acumen. By selecting the recommended subject combination—English, Mathematics, Biology (or equivalent)—and aiming for scores comfortably above the national cut‑offs, students position themselves for success in Nigeria’s most competitive LIS programmes. Leveraging resources from the JAMB portal, university admissions pages, and professional associations will ensure that aspirants are fully prepared to embark on a rewarding career at the intersection of information, research, and technology.

For deeper dives into JAMB guidelines, visit the official JAMB portal (https://www.jamb.gov.ng/), and for university‑specific LIS admission criteria, consult the individual university websites listed above.


Read the Full legit Article at:
[ https://www.legit.ng/education/1673031-library-information-science-jamb-combination-requirements-tips/ ]