Economics & Development Studies – Undergraduate Programme Overview
Economics and Development Studies as an undergraduate programme combines the analytical framework of economics with the practical focus of development studies. It explores how economic theories, policies, and institutions influence national and global development, particularly in addressing poverty, inequality, unemployment, and sustainable growth. The programme typically spans four years and leads to the award of a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Economics and Development Studies.
Students in this programme take core courses such as microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, development economics, public finance, international economics, project planning, poverty and inequality studies, environmental economics, and economic policy analysis. The goal is to equip students with the tools to understand, analyze, and influence socioeconomic development, especially in emerging and developing countries.
Importance Across All Fields and Sectors
Economics and Development Studies play a key role in shaping societies, governments, and international institutions:
Public Policy and Government: Guides decision-making in budgeting, taxation, public spending, and development planning.
International Development: Supports organizations like the UN, World Bank, and NGOs in project design, impact evaluation, and donor funding.
Banking and Finance: Involves economic forecasting, investment planning, risk analysis, and financial market monitoring.
Research and Academia: Enables graduates to pursue careers in teaching, policy research, and publication in think tanks or universities.
Corporate Sector: Assists businesses in market research, economic strategy, and expansion planning.
Nonprofits and NGOs: Contributes to poverty alleviation programmes, rural development, and community empowerment projects.
Environmental and Resource Management: Informs policy on climate change, natural resource use, and sustainable development.
Media and Communication: Provides insights into economic reporting, development journalism, and public awareness.
Admission Requirements for Economics & Development Studies
1. National Requirements (UTME and SSCE)
O’Level Requirements (WAEC/NECO/NABTEB)
Candidates must obtain at least five (5) credit passes in the following subjects:
English Language
Mathematics
Economics
Any two other relevant subjects (e.g., Government, Geography, Commerce, Accounting)
Credits must be obtained at not more than two sittings.
UTME Subjects
Candidates must sit for and pass the following:
Economics
Mathematics
One other subject from Government, Geography, or Accounting
Minimum UTME Score
Most institutions require a UTME score of 180–200.
More competitive institutions may require 220 or above.
JAMB Subject Combination
Economics, Mathematics, and one other relevant subject.
2. Direct Entry (DE) Requirements
Candidates applying for Direct Entry into 200 Level must have one of the following:
At least two A-Level passes in Economics and any other relevant subject such as Geography or Mathematics.
ND/NCE with merit or upper credit in Economics, Statistics, or related social science disciplines.
JUPEB/IJMB passes in Economics and two other relevant subjects.
3. University or Faculty-Specific Requirements
Some universities may conduct Post-UTME screening or aptitude tests.
A good background in mathematics, economics, and social sciences is required.
Some institutions may accept Government or Commerce in place of a second science or arts subject.
Familiarity with national and global development issues may be considered an added advantage.