Explore the complete NOUN Public Health programme details, including admission requirements, course outline, and updated fees for 2025. Learn about career opportunities and how to apply for the BSc Public Health at the National Open University of Nigeria.
The BSc Public Health programme at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) is designed to train students in preventive healthcare, health promotion, and community wellness. This programme prepares graduates to address public health challenges, conduct health research, and implement policies that improve population health.
As part of the Faculty of Health Sciences, the Public Health programme is structured to accommodate working-class students and those in remote areas through NOUN’s Open and Distance Learning (ODL) system.
This guide covers:
- Full admission requirements
- Course outline from 100–400 level
- Fees structure for 2025
- Career opportunities after graduation
Key Takeaways
| Before | Now (2025 Update) |
|---|---|
| Limited exposure to digital learning platforms. | Fully integrated Learning Management System (LMS) with e-courseware and online facilitation. |
| Fees not clearly broken down for all levels. | Transparent per-semester fee structure provided for all students. |
| Narrow scope of electives. | Broader electives including Epidemiology, Health Policy, and Environmental Health. |
NOUN BSc Public Health Admission Requirements
1. O’Level Entry (UTME Applicants)
- Minimum of five (5) credit passes at SSCE/GCE/NECO/NABTEB in not more than two sittings.
- Compulsory subjects include:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Chemistry
- One other relevant science subject (e.g., Physics, Agricultural Science).
2. Direct Entry Requirements
- At least two (2) A-Level passes in Biology/Zoology, Chemistry, or Physics.
- ND/NCE in Health Sciences or related discipline with at least Lower Credit.
- Registered Nurses/Midwives with the appropriate diploma qualifications may be admitted into higher levels after evaluation.
Programme Structure
The programme uses a course unit system consisting of:
- Compulsory Courses (C) – Mandatory for graduation.
- Elective Courses (E) – Flexible but contribute to required credit load.
- General Studies (GST) – Develop communication, ICT skills, and civic responsibility.
Course Outline – BSc Public Health (100–400 Level)
100 Level – First Semester
| Course Code | Course Title | Unit(s) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| GST101 | Use of English and Communication Skills I | 2 | C |
| GST107 | The Good Study Guide | 2 | C |
| BIO101 | General Biology I | 2 | C |
| CHM101 | Introductory Inorganic Chemistry | 2 | C |
| PHS101 | Introduction to Public Health | 3 | C |
| CIT104 | Introduction to Computer Science | 2 | C |
| Total Units | 13 |
100 Level – Second Semester
| Course Code | Course Title | Unit(s) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| GST102 | Use of English and Communication Skills II | 2 | C |
| GST104 | Use of Library | 2 | C |
| BIO102 | General Biology II | 2 | C |
| CHM102 | Introductory Organic Chemistry | 2 | C |
| PHS102 | Principles of Epidemiology | 3 | C |
| CIT102 | Software Application Skills | 2 | C |
| Total Units | 13 |
200 Level – First Semester
| Course Code | Course Title | Unit(s) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| GST201 | Nigerian Peoples and Culture | 2 | C |
| PHS201 | Environmental Health I | 3 | C |
| PHS203 | Health Education and Promotion | 3 | C |
| PHS205 | Biostatistics I | 2 | C |
| ENT201 | Principles of Entrepreneurship | 2 | C |
| Total Units | 12 |
200 Level – Second Semester
| Course Code | Course Title | Unit(s) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| GST202 | Fundamentals of Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution | 2 | C |
| PHS202 | Environmental Health II | 3 | C |
| PHS204 | Epidemiology of Communicable Diseases | 3 | C |
| PHS206 | Biostatistics II | 2 | C |
| Total Units | 10 |
300 Level – First Semester
| Course Code | Course Title | Unit(s) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| PHS301 | Occupational Health and Safety | 3 | C |
| PHS303 | Health Policy and Management | 3 | C |
| PHS305 | Reproductive and Child Health | 3 | C |
| PHS307 | Non-Communicable Diseases | 2 | C |
| Total Units | 11 |
300 Level – Second Semester
| Course Code | Course Title | Unit(s) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| PHS302 | Nutrition and Public Health | 3 | C |
| PHS304 | Health Systems Research | 3 | C |
| PHS306 | Primary Health Care | 3 | C |
| Total Units | 9 |
400 Level – First Semester
| Course Code | Course Title | Unit(s) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| PHS401 | Advanced Epidemiology | 3 | C |
| PHS403 | Health Economics | 3 | C |
| PHS405 | Disaster and Emergency Health Management | 3 | C |
| Total Units | 9 |
400 Level – Second Semester
| Course Code | Course Title | Unit(s) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| PHS402 | Global Health | 3 | C |
| PHS404 | Seminar in Public Health | 2 | C |
| PHS499 | Research Project | 6 | C |
| Total Units | 11 |
NOUN Public Health Fees – 2025
| Fee Category | Amount (₦) |
|---|---|
| Application Form (New Students) | ₦5,000 |
| Semester Registration | ₦18,000 |
| Course Registration (per course) | ₦2,000 |
| Exam Registration (per course) | ₦1,000 |
| E-Courseware | Free |
| ID Card | ₦1,500 |
| Project Fee (Final Year) | ₦15,000 |
| Convocation Fee (Graduating Students) | ₦25,000 |
💡 Note: Fees are subject to change by NOUN management. Always confirm via the official NOUN portal.
Career Opportunities in Public Health
Graduates of NOUN’s BSc Public Health can work as:
- Public Health Officers
- Epidemiologists
- Environmental Health Specialists
- Health Policy Analysts
- Health Promotion Officers
- NGO/Community Health Programme Coordinators
Conclusion
The NOUN BSc Public Health programme offers a flexible and accessible pathway for students passionate about improving health outcomes in communities. With its detailed curriculum, affordable fees, and strong career prospects, it’s an excellent choice for aspiring health professionals in Nigeria.
FAQs About NOUN Public Health Courses
Q1: Can I work while studying Public Health at NOUN?
A: Yes. NOUN’s ODL system is designed for flexible learning.
Q2: Is there a final year project?
A: Yes, a compulsory research project (PHS499) in your last semester.
Q3: How long is the programme?
A: Four years (UTME) or three years (Direct Entry).
Q4: Does NOUN offer part-time study?
A: NOUN’s structure is inherently part-time friendly.
Q5: Where do I get my course materials?
A: From the NOUN e-courseware portal after registration.
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