Nautical Science is a specialized course that focuses on navigation, seamanship, maritime safety, and ship operations. It prepares students for careers as deck officers, ship captains, and maritime professionals. Because it is a technical and science-based course, choosing the correct JAMB subject combination is very important.

If you are planning to study Nautical Science in any Nigerian university or maritime academy, this guide explains the correct JAMB subjects, O’level requirements, and other key admission details.

What Is Nautical Science?

Nautical Science is the study of ship navigation, cargo handling, maritime law, meteorology, and marine communication. Students receive both theoretical knowledge and practical training that prepares them to work onboard ships and in the maritime industry.

Graduates often work as:

• Deck officers

• Navigators

• Ship captains (after certification and sea time)

• Marine safety officers

• Port and maritime administrators

Correct JAMB Subject Combination for Nautical Science

To gain admission into Nautical Science through UTME, candidates are generally required to write the following four subjects in JAMB:

English Language, Mathematics, Physics, and Geography

Why These Subjects?

• English Language is compulsory for all JAMB candidates

• Mathematics is required because navigation and marine calculations rely heavily on it

• Physics is essential for understanding mechanics, waves, motion, and other marine science principles

• Geography is important for map reading, navigation, weather patterns, and understanding global sea routes

Some institutions may accept Chemistry instead of Geography, but Geography is more commonly preferred for Nautical Science. Always confirm the exact requirements of your chosen school.

O’Level Requirements for Nautical Science

In addition to the JAMB subject combination, you must also meet the O’level requirements. Most institutions require at least five credit passes in WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB, including:

• English Language

• Mathematics

• Physics

• Geography

• One other science subject such as Chemistry or Further Mathematics

Credits must usually be obtained in not more than two sittings.

Direct Entry Requirements for Nautical Science

If you are applying through Direct Entry instead of UTME, institutions may accept:

• ND or HND in Nautical Science, Marine Engineering, or related maritime courses

• A-level passes in Mathematics and Physics

• IJMB or JUPEB with relevant science subjects

Direct Entry candidates must also meet the O’level requirements listed above.

Important Tips for Admission Success

1. Choose the Right Subject Combination: Many students lose admission simply because they selected the wrong JAMB subjects. Make sure you choose Mathematics, Physics, and Geography along with English.

2. Aim for a High JAMB Score: Nautical Science is competitive, especially in federal maritime institutions. A higher JAMB score improves your chances.

3. Be Medically Fit: Maritime training often requires physical fitness and good eyesight, as students will undergo sea training and practical maritime exercises.

4. Prepare for Post-UTME or Screening: Some institutions conduct Post-UTME exams, interviews, or physical screenings. Stay updated and prepare accordingly.

Career Opportunities After Studying Nautical Science

After graduation and required professional certifications, you can work in:

• Merchant navy

• Shipping companies

• Port authorities

• Offshore oil and gas marine operations

• Maritime safety and regulatory agencies

With experience and sea time, you can rise to the rank of ship captain, which is one of the most respected careers in the maritime world.

Frequently Asked Questions About Studying Nautical Science

1. What are the four JAMB subjects required for Nautical Science?

The required JAMB subjects for Nautical Science are English Language, Mathematics, Physics, and Geography. English is compulsory for all courses.

2. Can I replace Geography with Chemistry in JAMB for Nautical Science?

Some institutions may accept Chemistry, but Geography is more widely preferred because it relates directly to navigation, map reading, and weather patterns. Always confirm with your chosen institution.

3. Is Mathematics compulsory for Nautical Science?

Yes, Mathematics is compulsory. It is needed for navigation calculations, ship stability, and other technical maritime studies.

4. Is Physics required for Nautical Science?

Yes, Physics is very important. It helps students understand motion, forces, waves, and other scientific principles used in maritime operations.

5. What O’level subjects are required to study Nautical Science?

You need at least five credit passes including English Language, Mathematics, Physics, Geography, and one other science subject such as Chemistry or Further Mathematics.

6. How many sittings are allowed for O’level results?

Most institutions accept O’level results in not more than two sittings.

7. Can art or commercial students study Nautical Science?

Nautical Science is a science-based course, so candidates must have strong science subjects, especially Mathematics and Physics. Art or commercial students without these subjects usually do not qualify.

8. Which schools offer Nautical Science in Nigeria?

Some top institutions include the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron and the Nigerian Maritime University, Delta State.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the correct JAMB subject combination for Nautical Science is the first and most important step toward a successful maritime career. Make sure you register English, Mathematics, Physics, and Geography in UTME and meet all O’level science requirements.