Learn how to successfully change your course in Nigerian universities, whether through inter-faculty transfer or starting over with a new JAMB.
Are you a fresh student or perhaps a returning student at a Nigerian university, feeling uncertain about the course you’re currently studying? Maybe the course you were offered during admission doesn’t quite match your interests, or perhaps you’re finding it more challenging than you anticipated. If this sounds like you, don’t worry—you’re not alone, and you don’t have to feel stuck.
Many students find themselves in similar situations, and the good news is that changing your course or department is possible. It’s important to study something that excites and motivates you because your course can shape your future career and overall university experience. This guide is here to help you understand the process of switching courses or departments within your university.
Whether you’re driven by a passion for a different field, struggling with your current course load, or simply realizing that another path aligns better with your goals, we’ve got you covered. We’ll walk you through the essential steps, provide valuable tips, and answer common questions to help make your transition as smooth as possible. By the end of this guide, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge you need to confidently switch to a course that better suits your interests and aspirations.
How to Successfully Change Your Course in a Nigerian University
There are two common ways students can change their courses while at a university in Nigeria. These methods are generally the same across all universities. They include:
- Inter-faculty and intra-faculty transfers
- Taking another JAMB exam
How Inter-Faculty and Intra-Faculty Transfers Work
Changing courses in a Nigerian university can seem confusing, especially if you’re not sure how the process works. If you’re thinking about switching to a different course, it’s important to understand how inter-faculty and intra-faculty transfers work. Here’s a simple explanation of these terms and how the process usually goes in Nigerian universities.
What is an Inter-Faculty Transfer?
An inter-faculty transfer happens when a student decides to switch their course to another one in a different faculty within the same university. For example, if you’re studying a course in the Faculty of Science and you want to move to a course in the Faculty of Social Sciences, you would need an inter-faculty transfer.
What is an Intra-Faculty Transfer?
An intra-faculty transfer, on the other hand, is when a student wants to switch courses within the same faculty. For instance, if you’re studying Mechanical Engineering and want to change to Civil Engineering, you would need an intra-faculty transfer since both courses are in the Faculty of Engineering.
How the Transfer Process Works
1. Eligibility Requirements:
Before you can transfer, you must meet certain requirements set by your university. Typically, you need to have completed at least one academic year and have a certain Grade Point Average (GPA). The required GPA might vary depending on the faculty you want to transfer to.
Some faculties might also require you to have completed specific courses before you can transfer.
2. Applying for the Transfer:
- Get the Transfer Form:The first step is to get the transfer form from your university’s admissions office or your faculty office. Some universities may also provide the form online
- Fill Out the Form: After you get the form, you need to fill it out with your current course details, the course you want to switch to, and your reasons for wanting to transfer. Be clear about why you want to change courses and how the new course fits better with your academic and career goals.
- Submit the Form: Once you’ve filled out the form, submit it to the appropriate office, usually the registrar’s office. Make sure to do this before the submission deadline.
3. Approval Process:
- Faculty and Department Review: After you submit the form, your transfer request will be reviewed by both your current and prospective faculties. This might involve an interview or an assessment to see if you’re suitable for the new course.
- University Approval: If the faculty approves your transfer, the request is then sent to the university’s central administration for final approval. They will double-check that you meet all the requirements.
4. Receiving the Decision:
Once the review is done, you’ll be notified whether your transfer request was approved or not. If it’s approved, you’ll get an official letter confirming the transfer and instructions on the next steps, like registering for your new courses.
5.Registering in Your New Faculty:
After the transfer is approved, you’ll need to register in your new faculty or department. This usually means meeting with an academic advisor to discuss which courses you’ll take and any other requirements for your new program.
ALSO READ: Guide to a high 100 level CGPA
Things to Consider
One of the Most important step you’ll need to take before you apply for an inter-faculty or inter-faculty transfer is to meet your course coordinator, your course coordinator will advise you and tell you the requirements for inter/intra faculty transfer. In some universities you can’t transfer from non professional to a professional course. Your Course coordinator will tell you some courses you’ll be able to transfer to and those you can’t transfer to.
Also switching courses might come with some challenges via the inter faculty such as:
- Limited Slots: Some faculties have limited spaces available for transfers, so not everyone will get approved.
- Lost Credits: Some of the courses you’ve already completed might not count towards your new program, which could extend your time in university.
- Adjustment Period: Changing courses might require extra effort to catch up academically and socially, so be prepared for this.
Taking Another JAMB
As mentioned earlier in the article, some universities do not allow students to switch to certain courses, even if they have a high CGPA. This is particularly the case when attempting to change from a non-professional to a professional course, or from a lower-ranked course to a higher-ranked course. For example, transferring from Biological Sciences to MBBS or from Chemistry to Engineering may not be permitted in some universities.
If you’re admitted to a course that doesn’t satisfy you, it’s wise to meet with your course coordinator and inquire whether it will be possible to change your course or department in the future. If it’s not possible, it might be better to register for another JAMB and start over after your first year.
Why Changing Your Course in University Can Lead to a More Fulfilling Career
It’s completely normal to feel uncertain or even a bit anxious about changing your course, especially if it means starting over. But don’t let those feelings hold you back. What truly matters is studying something you’re passionate about, something that excites you and makes you look forward to learning.
Remember, university is not just about getting a degree—it’s about setting the foundation for your future. If you’re studying a course that doesn’t inspire you, it can be hard to stay motivated, and you might find yourself struggling to keep up. On the other hand, when you’re passionate about what you’re learning, it doesn’t just make your studies easier; it also makes the entire university experience more enjoyable and fulfilling.
So, if you feel like you need to change your course, or even start over, don’t feel bad about it. It’s a brave decision that shows you’re thinking about your future and what’s best for you. In the long run, studying something you love is worth the effort, and it can lead to a more satisfying and successful career. Remember, it’s your journey, and it’s never too late to take the path that feels right for you.
Conclusion
Navigating your academic journey can be challenging, especially when you realize that the course you’re studying isn’t the right fit. But remember, you’re not alone in this, and changing your course is a decision that many students make in pursuit of a more fulfilling academic and career path. Whether you’re considering an inter-faculty or intra-faculty transfer, or even starting over with a new JAMB, the most important thing is that you’re aligning your studies with your passion and goals.
Don’t be discouraged if the process seems overwhelming or if there are obstacles along the way. Take the time to explore your options, seek advice from your course coordinator, and make informed decisions. In the end, studying a course that excites you will not only enhance your university experience but also set you up for success in your future career. Remember, it’s your journey, and making the right choice now will pay off in the long run.