Universities Offering Fine Arts in Nigeria – If you’re considering studying Fine Arts in Nigeria, you have plenty of great options to choose from.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the top universities offering Fine Arts programs in Nigeria for the 2025/2026 academic year. Let’s dive in.
What Is Fine Arts?
Fine Arts encompasses various artistic disciplines like painting, sculpture, printmaking, and design. Studying Fine Arts isn’t just about improving your skills in art—it also develops your creativity, critical thinking, and cultural understanding.
Graduates often find exciting career opportunities in education, entertainment, media, advertising, and the growing creative industries.
Now that you have a basic understanding of what Fine Arts education offers, let’s explore some of the top universities in Nigeria where you can pursue your artistic dreams.
Universities Offering Fine Arts Programs in Nigeria
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN): The University of Nigeria, Nsukka, offers a diverse Fine and Applied Arts program. This program includes courses in painting, sculpture, ceramics, textile design, and more. UNN’s emphasis on both practical and theoretical learning ensures that students are well-equipped to enter various fields such as teaching, design, or professional art practice. The university’s rich cultural heritage also provides an inspiring environment for budding artists.
- University of Benin (UNIBEN): Located in Edo State, the University of Benin offers a comprehensive Fine Arts program. Known for its creative approach, UNIBEN provides students with a solid foundation in artistic techniques and conceptual art. The program is designed to help students refine their craft and develop their own artistic identity. Students at UNIBEN are also encouraged to experiment with different mediums and styles, preparing them for success in the global art scene.
- Delta State University, Abraka (DELSU): Delta State University in Abraka offers a Fine Arts program that focuses on both artistic creation and art history. Students at DELSU are exposed to different art forms such as painting, sculpture, and graphic design. The program aims to build students’ technical skills and creative expression while preparing them for professional art practice. DELSU also provides students with opportunities to showcase their work and gain industry experience.
- University of Jos (UNIJOS): The University of Jos offers a Fine Arts program that blends creativity with academic research. With a focus on both traditional and contemporary art, UNIJOS provides students with a well-rounded education in Fine Arts. The university’s Fine Arts department is known for its strong faculty and encouraging environment for creative experimentation. Students can explore areas such as painting, sculpture, and graphic arts, ensuring that they graduate as versatile artists.
- Federal University, Kashere: Located in Gombe State, the Federal University of Kashere offers a Fine Arts program that prepares students to excel in various artistic fields. The university provides a balanced education that combines technical skills with creative expression. Kashere’s Fine Arts program is designed to foster a deep understanding of art while promoting practical skill development in studio-based disciplines.
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria: Ahmadu Bello University, located in Zaria, offers a Fine Arts program that prepares students for careers in various art-related fields. The program covers traditional and contemporary practices in Fine Arts and includes studio courses in painting, sculpture, and graphic design. ABU’s Fine Arts department has a reputation for nurturing creative talents and producing successful graduates who go on to work in both the public and private sectors of the art world.
- University of Lagos (UNILAG): The University of Lagos is another top choice for aspiring Fine Arts students. UNILAG’s Department of Creative Arts offers a multidisciplinary approach that combines Fine Arts with other aspects of creative expression, such as music, theater, and film. UNILAG’s Fine Arts program is designed to develop students’ technical skills and encourage them to think critically about the role of art in society.
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife: At Obafemi Awolowo University, students can pursue a degree in Fine Arts through the university’s Department of Fine and Applied Arts. OAU offers a wide range of courses in painting, sculpture, printmaking, and design. The university’s Fine Arts program is designed to help students build their technical skills and creativity, preparing them for careers in education, studio practice, and the creative industries.
- Niger Delta University, Yenagoa (NDU): Niger Delta University offers a Fine Arts program that focuses on creating artists who are not only skilled in various techniques but also able to think critically about the art world. Students at NDU are encouraged to experiment with different artistic forms and practices, from sculpture to digital media. The program also includes exposure to art history and theory, making it a well-rounded choice for students interested in becoming professional artists.
- University of Calabar (UNICAL): The University of Calabar offers a Fine Arts program with a focus on both traditional and contemporary art practices. The program includes courses in visual arts, sculpture, and painting, and it encourages students to develop their own unique artistic style. UNICAL provides students with a supportive environment to explore their creativity and gain professional experience through exhibitions and industry partnerships.
- Kwara State University (KWASU)
- Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED)
- Federal University, Ndufu-alike (FUNAI)
- Ignatius Ajuru University (IAUE)
Admission Requirements for Fine Arts Programs
If you’re planning to study Fine Arts in Nigeria, you’ll need to meet certain admission requirements. While the specific requirements may vary depending on the university, here’s a general guide:
- O’Level Requirements: You’ll need at least five credit passes in relevant subjects, including English Language and Fine Arts (or Visual Arts). Some universities may also require subjects like Mathematics, History, or Geography.
- JAMB UTME Subjects: For Fine Arts, you’ll typically need to take English Language, Fine Arts, and two other subjects from the Arts or Social Sciences in your JAMB exam.
- Post-UTME Screening: Many universities require candidates to pass a post-UTME screening, which may include an art aptitude test or portfolio review to assess your creativity and artistic skills.
Career Opportunities After Studying Fine Arts
A degree in Fine Arts opens up many exciting career opportunities, including:
- Art Education: Teach Fine Arts at primary, secondary, or tertiary levels.
- Professional Artist: Become a painter, sculptor, illustrator, or graphic designer. You can sell your artwork or showcase it in galleries and exhibitions.
- Creative Industries: Work in advertising, film, animation, or digital media. Many Fine Arts graduates find work in the entertainment and media sectors.
- Art Galleries and Museums: Work as an art curator, art consultant, or museum educator.
- Entrepreneurship: Start your own art studio, gallery, or design firm. Many artists choose to become entrepreneurs and run their own creative businesses.
Nigeria offers a variety of universities with excellent Fine Arts programs that can help you turn your artistic passion into a successful career. Whether you want to become a professional artist, an art educator, or a creative entrepreneur, there are numerous institutions to help you develop your skills and reach your goals.
Remember to research each university’s program offerings and admission requirements to find the best fit for you. With hard work, dedication, and the right education, you’ll be well on your way to pursuing a successful career in Fine Arts.