Taxation – Undergraduate Programme Overview
Taxation as an undergraduate programme is designed to provide students with comprehensive knowledge of tax laws, policies, systems, and practices that govern revenue generation at the local, national, and international levels. It combines accounting, economics, law, and public finance to equip students with the technical and analytical skills needed for tax planning, compliance, and administration. The programme typically spans four years and leads to the award of a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Taxation.
Students study a wide range of subjects including principles of taxation, income tax, value-added tax (VAT), corporate tax, international taxation, tax audit and investigation, public finance, tax law, financial accounting, and business ethics. The programme prepares graduates to support government revenue mobilization, advise businesses and individuals on tax matters, and ensure regulatory compliance in the financial ecosystem.
Importance Across All Fields and Sectors
Taxation is central to national development and economic governance, making it valuable across sectors:
Public Sector and Government: Supports tax administration, policy development, budgeting, and fiscal planning in institutions like the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and state revenue boards.
Corporate Organizations: Assists in managing corporate tax obligations, regulatory compliance, tax reporting, and audits.
Accounting and Consulting Firms: Provides tax advisory services, filing support, and representation in tax disputes.
Banking and Finance: Ensures adherence to tax regulations in transactions, investments, and payroll processing.
Entrepreneurship and SMEs: Guides small businesses on tax registration, VAT compliance, and incentives.
International Organizations and NGOs: Offers expertise in cross-border taxation, tax justice, and development finance.
Academia and Research: Contributes to knowledge in tax reform, fiscal studies, and public finance education.
Admission Requirements for Taxation
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., Accounting, Commerce, Government, or Business Studies)
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 Accounting, Government, or Commerce
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 (e.g., Accounting or Government)
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, Accounting, or Business Studies.
ND/NCE with merit or upper credit in Taxation, Accounting, Banking & Finance, or related fields.
JUPEB/IJMB passes in relevant commercial subjects.
3. University or Faculty-Specific Requirements
Some universities may conduct Post-UTME screening or aptitude tests.
A solid background in commercial and financial subjects is important.
Some institutions may accept Commerce or Government in place of Economics or a second commercial subject.
Practical experience through internships or tax awareness clubs may serve as added advantage.