Apply for the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) 2025/2026 postgraduate programmes. Learn how to register online, admission requirements, available courses, fees, and step-by-step application process for PGD, MSc, PhD, MBA, and MPA programmes.
The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) has officially opened its portal for the 2025/2026 Postgraduate Admission into various programmes such as Postgraduate Diploma (PGD), Master’s (MSc, MBA, MPA), and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
NOUN’s postgraduate programmes are designed for graduates and professionals seeking to advance their education while enjoying the flexibility of Open and Distance Learning (ODL). This means you can study from anywhere in Nigeria or abroad without having to attend daily physical classes.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
- Available NOUN postgraduate programmes
- Admission requirements for each category
- How to apply online through the official portal
- School fees for postgraduate students
- Frequently asked questions
Available NOUN Postgraduate Programmes
NOUN offers a wide range of postgraduate programmes across various faculties. Below is the list of major categories available for the 2025/2026 session:
| Programme Type | Available Degrees/Diplomas |
|---|---|
| Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) | PGD Business Administration, PGD Education, PGD Public Administration, PGD Peace and Conflict Resolution, PGD Theology, PGD Environmental Management, PGD Information Technology |
| Master’s Degrees | MSc Business Administration, MSc Public Administration, MSc Information Technology, MSc Peace and Conflict Resolution, MSc Environmental Management, MSc Nursing Science, MSc Public Health |
| Professional Master’s | MBA (Master of Business Administration), MPA (Master of Public Administration), M.Ed (Educational Administration, Guidance & Counselling, Science Education) |
| Doctoral Programmes (PhD) | PhD Business Administration, PhD Public Administration, PhD Educational Management, PhD Information Technology, PhD Peace Studies, PhD Public Health |
Admission Requirements for NOUN Postgraduate Programmes
a) Postgraduate Diploma (PGD)
- A minimum of Third Class Bachelor’s degree in the relevant field from an accredited university.
- OR Higher National Diploma (HND) with at least Lower Credit from a recognised polytechnic.
b) Master’s Degree (MSc, MBA, MPA, M.Ed)
- A Bachelor’s degree with at least Second Class Lower in the relevant field from a recognised university.
- For MBA and MPA programmes, candidates with HND + PGD are eligible.
c) Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
- A Master’s degree in the relevant field from a recognised institution with a minimum CGPA of 3.5 on a 5-point scale.
How to Apply for NOUN Postgraduate Admission 2025/2026
Follow these steps to complete your postgraduate application:
- Visit the NOUN Admission Portal:
👉 https://www.nouonline.nou.edu.ng/ - Select “Apply for Admission”
- Click “Pay for Application Form”.
- Generate Your RRR (Remita Retrieval Reference):
- Pay the application fee of ₦15,000 via Remita at any bank branch or online.
- Return to the Portal to Complete the Application Form
- Fill in your personal information, academic qualifications, and preferred programme.
- Upload Required Documents
- Degree certificates, transcripts, passport photograph, and identification.
- Submit Your Application and print the acknowledgment slip.
NOUN Postgraduate School Fees (2025/2026)
| Programme | Application Fee | First-Year Tuition | Subsequent Years |
|---|---|---|---|
| PGD | ₦15,000 | ₦180,000 – ₦220,000 | ₦150,000 – ₦200,000 |
| MSc/MA | ₦15,000 | ₦200,000 – ₦250,000 | ₦180,000 – ₦220,000 |
| MBA/MPA | ₦15,000 | ₦250,000 – ₦300,000 | ₦200,000 – ₦250,000 |
| PhD | ₦15,000 | ₦300,000 – ₦400,000 | ₦250,000 – ₦350,000 |
💡 Note: Fees vary depending on faculty and programme. Always confirm from your study centre before payment.
Important Dates and Deadlines
- Application Portal Opens: January 2025
- Application Closes: Tentatively September 2025 (subject to extension)
- First Semester Resumption: October 2025
Benefits of Studying Postgraduate Programmes at NOUN
- Flexible study schedule with no daily physical lectures.
- Affordable tuition compared to conventional universities.
- Nationwide study centres for easier access to resources.
- Accredited programmes recognised locally and internationally.
Conclusion
The NOUN 2025/2026 postgraduate admission process is straightforward, affordable, and ideal for working professionals. Whether you are pursuing a PGD, MSc, MBA, MPA, or PhD, the NOUN Open and Distance Learning system gives you the flexibility to earn your degree at your own pace.
Don’t miss the opportunity—apply early to secure your spot.
FAQs About NOUN Postgraduate Admission Form
Q1: Can I apply for NOUN postgraduate admission without NYSC certificate?
A: For most programmes, NYSC discharge or exemption is required.
Q2: How long is the MBA programme at NOUN?
A: Typically 4 semesters (2 academic years).
Q3: Does NOUN offer part-time postgraduate programmes?
A: All NOUN programmes are flexible and ODL-based, similar to part-time learning.
Q4: Can I defer my NOUN postgraduate admission after being offered?
A: Yes, you can defer but must notify your study centre in writing.
Q5: Is the NOUN postgraduate degree recognised abroad?
A: Yes, NOUN degrees are NUC-accredited and recognised internationally.
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