Choosing the correct Cell Biology and Genetics subject combination for JAMB/DE is an important step for candidates who want to study one of the fastest-growing fields in the life sciences.

This programme is ideal for students who are curious about how cells function, how traits are inherited, and how genetic research is driving breakthroughs in medicine, agriculture, biotechnology, and environmental science.

Understanding the admission requirements before completing your JAMB registration can help you avoid costly mistakes and improve your chances of gaining admission.

Cell Biology and Genetics focuses on the study of living cells and the genetic mechanisms that control growth, development, reproduction, and inheritance. Throughout the programme, students explore areas such as molecular biology, genomics, cytology, developmental biology, genetic engineering, and biotechnology while gaining hands-on laboratory experience.

The knowledge acquired prepares graduates to contribute to scientific discoveries that improve healthcare, food security, disease management, and sustainable development.

Meeting the admission requirements for this course involves more than scoring well in UTME. Applicants must also register the approved JAMB subject combination, obtain the required O'Level credit passes, and satisfy any Direct Entry requirements set by their preferred institution.

Taking the time to understand these requirements before applying can significantly increase your chances of securing admission into a Nigerian university offering Cell Biology and Genetics.

JAMB Subject Combination for Cell Biology and Genetics

Candidates seeking admission through UTME should register the following four subjects:

This is the standard JAMB subject combination accepted by most Nigerian universities offering Cell Biology and Genetics.

O'Level Requirements for Cell Biology and Genetics

Applicants must obtain at least five (5) credit passes in WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB. The required subjects include:

  • English Language
  • Mathematics
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Physics

Most universities accept results from one or two sittings, depending on their admission policy.

Direct Entry Requirements for Cell Biology and Genetics

Candidates applying through Direct Entry should possess one of the following qualifications:

  • National Diploma (ND) in Science Laboratory Technology, Biology, Biotechnology, Microbiology, or another related science discipline.
  • Higher National Diploma (HND) in a relevant field.
  • Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) in Biology or Integrated Science.
  • IJMB or JUPEB with passes in Biology, Chemistry, and another science subject.
  • Two A-Level passes in Biology, Chemistry, or other relevant science subjects.

Applicants should confirm the latest Direct Entry requirements with their preferred university before applying.

RELATED ARTICLE:

JAMB UTME/DE Subject Combination for All Courses in Nigeria 2026/2027

Universities Offering Cell Biology and Genetics in Nigeria

Federal Universities

Federal UniversityState
University of Lagos (UNILAG)Lagos
University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)Enugu
University of Calabar (UNICAL)Cross River
University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT)Rivers
Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE)Ekiti
University of Abuja (UNIABUJA)FCT

State Universities

State UniversityState
Delta State University (DELSU)Delta
Ebonyi State University (EBSU)Ebonyi
Ekiti State University (EKSU)Ekiti
Lagos State University (LASU)Lagos
Imo State University (IMSU)Imo
Osun State University (UNIOSUN)Osun

Private Universities

Private UniversityState
Afe Babalola University (ABUAD)Ekiti
Babcock UniversityOgun
Bowen UniversityOsun
Covenant UniversityOgun
Crawford UniversityOgun
Madonna UniversityRivers

Note: Some universities may offer this programme under titles such as Cell Biology, Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, or as a specialisation within Biological Sciences. Candidates should confirm the exact course title in the latest JAMB IBASS brochure before making their institution choices.

What Can You Do with a Degree in Cell Biology and Genetics?

Graduates of Cell Biology and Genetics are equipped with laboratory, analytical, and research skills that are valuable across several industries. As advances in biotechnology and genomics continue to reshape healthcare and agriculture, professionals in this field remain in high demand.

Career opportunities include:

  • Geneticist
  • Cell Biologist
  • Molecular Biologist
  • Biotechnology Research Scientist
  • Laboratory Scientist
  • Biomedical Research Assistant
  • Pharmaceutical Research Officer
  • Clinical Laboratory Analyst
  • Agricultural Geneticist
  • Environmental Scientist
  • University Lecturer
  • Science Educator

Graduates may also work in biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical industries, hospitals, research institutes, forensic laboratories, universities, agricultural organisations, and government agencies.