Fisheries is a course under Agricultural and Environmental Sciences that focuses on fish production, aquatic ecosystems, fish breeding, aquaculture, and the management of water resources. It prepares students to work in fish farming, aquatic research, environmental protection, and food production industries.

If you want to study Fisheries in a Nigerian university, choosing the correct JAMB subject combination is very important. Selecting the wrong subjects can affect your admission chances.

This guide explains the approved UTME subjects, O Level requirements, and helpful admission tips.

Correct JAMB Subject Combination for Fisheries

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

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

2. Biology or Agricultural Science: Biology helps you understand aquatic life and ecosystems, while Agricultural Science is relevant for fish farming and aquaculture.

3. Chemistry: Chemistry is important for water quality, fish nutrition, and biological processes.

4. One of the following subjects:

• Physics

• Mathematics

• Geography

O Level Requirements for Fisheries

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

• English Language

• Mathematics

• Biology or Agricultural Science

• Chemistry

• One other science subject (usually Physics or Geography)

These credits are usually accepted in not more than two sittings.

Tips to Gain Admission to Study Fisheries

Choose the right science subjects: Biology and Chemistry are very important.

Aim for a good JAMB score: A score of 180 and above can be competitive in many schools.

Have strong O Level science grades: Good results in Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics improve your chances.

Be ready for practical work: Fisheries involves fieldwork, fish farming practices, and laboratory analysis.

Career Opportunities for Fisheries Graduates

Graduates of Fisheries can work in:

• Fish farming and aquaculture businesses

• Government fisheries departments

• Environmental and water resource agencies

• Research institutes and laboratories

• Food production and processing industries

• Marine and coastal resource management

Fisheries also offers opportunities for self-employment through commercial fish farming.

Frequently Asked Questions About JAMB Subject Combination for Fisheries

1. What are the four JAMB subjects required for Fisheries?

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

2. Is Biology compulsory for Fisheries?

Biology is strongly recommended and accepted by most universities. Some schools may accept Agricultural Science instead, especially for aquaculture-focused programs.

3. Why is Chemistry required for Fisheries?

Chemistry helps students understand water quality, fish nutrition, and biological processes in aquatic environments.

4. Can I use Geography instead of Physics for Fisheries?

Yes, some universities accept Geography as the fourth subject, especially because it relates to environmental and water resource studies. However, Physics may be preferred in some schools.

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

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

6. Is Fisheries a competitive course?

Fisheries is generally less competitive than courses like Medicine or Engineering, but good grades and a solid JAMB score still improve your chances.

7. What is a good JAMB score for Fisheries?

A score of 180 and above is acceptable in many universities, though some schools may require higher scores.

8. What careers can I pursue with a Fisheries degree?

Graduates can work in fish farming, aquaculture businesses, government fisheries departments, environmental agencies, research institutes, and food production industries.

Final Thoughts

Make sure you meet the O Level science requirements and prepare well for both JAMB and post-admission screening. With the right subject choices and strong performance, you can build a successful career in aquaculture and aquatic resource management.