Animal Nutrition is a specialized course in the field of Agriculture and Animal Science that focuses on how animals feed, digest food, and use nutrients for growth, reproduction, and production. It plays an important role in livestock farming, poultry production, and food security.

If you are interested in studying Animal Nutrition in a Nigerian university, selecting the correct JAMB subject combination is very important. Choosing the wrong subjects can affect your chances of gaining admission.

This guide explains the correct JAMB subject combination, O Level requirements, and useful admission tips.

Correct JAMB Subject Combination for Animal Nutrition

To study Animal Nutrition, you are required to register the following subjects in JAMB UTME:

1. English Language, compulsory: English is required for all courses in JAMB.

2. Chemistry: Chemistry is important because Animal Nutrition involves understanding feed composition, digestion, and nutrient functions.

3. Biology or Agricultural Science: Either Biology or Agricultural Science is accepted by many universities since both relate to animal growth and life processes.

4. One of the following subjects:

• Physics

• Mathematics

• Geography

So the correct JAMB combination is usually: English, Chemistry, Biology or Agricultural Science, and Physics or Mathematics or Geography

Always confirm from the JAMB brochure for your chosen university, as requirements may vary slightly.

O Level Requirements for Animal Nutrition

You need at least five credit passes in WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB, including:

• English Language

• Mathematics

• Chemistry

• Biology or Agricultural Science

• One other science subject such as Physics or Geography

Results are typically accepted in not more than two sittings.

Tips to Gain Admission to Study Animal Nutrition

1. Choose the correct science subjects: Make sure you include Chemistry and Biology or Agricultural Science in JAMB.

2. Aim for a good JAMB score: A score of 180 and above may be accepted in some schools, but higher scores improve your chances, especially in federal universities.

3. Have strong O Level science results: Good grades in Chemistry and Biology or Agricultural Science are especially important.

4. Check the course title carefully: Animal Nutrition may be offered as part of Animal Science or Animal Production, so look closely at related programs when applying.

Career Opportunities for Animal Nutrition Graduates

Graduates of Animal Nutrition can work in:

• Livestock and poultry feed production

• Animal feed companies

• Farm management and consulting

• Agricultural research institutes

• Government agricultural agencies

• Livestock extension services

• Self employment in animal farming

It is a practical and in demand field, especially in countries focusing on improving food production.

Frequently Asked Questions About Studying Animal Nutrition

1. What are the four JAMB subjects for Animal Nutrition?

The correct JAMB subject combination is English Language, Chemistry, Biology or Agricultural Science, and one of Physics, Mathematics, or Geography.

2. Is Chemistry compulsory for Animal Nutrition?

Yes, Chemistry is compulsory. It is essential for understanding feed composition, digestion, and how nutrients function in animal bodies.

3. Can I use Agricultural Science instead of Biology?

Yes, many universities accept Agricultural Science in place of Biology. However, some schools may prefer Biology, so it is important to confirm from the JAMB brochure.

4. Is Physics required to study Animal Nutrition?

Physics is not always compulsory in JAMB. Some universities allow Mathematics or Geography instead. However, you may still need a science subject like Physics at O Level.

5. How many O Level credits do I need for Animal Nutrition?

You need at least five credit passes, including English Language, Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology or Agricultural Science, and one other science subject.

6. Is Animal Nutrition a competitive course?

Animal Nutrition is generally less competitive than courses like Medicine or Engineering, but you still need a decent JAMB score and strong science results to gain admission.

7. What is a good JAMB score for Animal Nutrition?

A score of 180 and above may be accepted in some universities, but aiming for 200 or higher improves your chances, especially in federal institutions.

8. Can an Art student study Animal Nutrition?

No, Animal Nutrition is a science and agriculture based course. You need a strong background in science subjects like Chemistry and Biology or Agricultural Science.

Final Thoughts

Make sure you also meet the O Level science requirements and prepare well for your exams. With the right subject choices and a solid score, you will be on the right path to building a career in animal production and nutrition.