The Management of Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU) has achieved a major institutional milestone with the formal approval from the National Universities Commission (NUC) to introduce sixteen new undergraduate degree programmes. This expansion, which takes effect from the 2025/2026 academic session, significantly diversifies the university's academic portfolio and provides broader access to specialized professional training for students in the South-South region and beyond.
The approval followed a rigorous resource verification exercise conducted by the NUC to ensure that the university possesses the necessary human and material resources—including specialized laboratories, studios, and qualified academic personnel—to support these high-demand disciplines. This move is aligned with the university's mission to drive innovation and provide a workforce capable of meeting modern industrial and societal challenges.
Overview of the Newly Approved Programmes
The sixteen new programmes span across several faculties, with a notable focus on the Environmental Sciences, Engineering, and Health sectors. Among the most prominent additions is the Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm. D), a professional doctorate that reflects the modern shift in pharmaceutical education toward clinical practice and patient-centered care.
In the field of Environmental Sciences and Built Environment, the university has added Architecture, Urban and Regional Planning, Estate Management, Surveying and Geoinformatics, Building, and Quantity Surveying. These additions position AKSU as a hub for the development of urban infrastructure and sustainable design experts. The Engineering faculty has also seen a significant boost with the inclusion of Automotive Engineering, Computer Engineering, and Telecommunications Engineering, catering to the growing demand for expertise in the global tech and manufacturing sectors.
The Humanities and Social Sciences were not left behind, with the introduction of Fine and Applied Arts, Local Government and Development Studies, Project Management, and Peace and Conflict Resolution. Additionally, the Faculty of Education has introduced Guidance and Counselling to address the critical need for psychological and career support within the educational system.
Admission Guidelines and Requirements
Prospective candidates interested in these new programmes should note that the admission window for the 2025/2026 session is now open. To be eligible, candidates must have sat for the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and obtained the minimum cutoff marks as prescribed by the university for each discipline.
General requirements typically include five credit passes in relevant O-Level subjects (WAEC, NECO, or equivalent), including English Language and Mathematics, obtained at not more than two sittings. For professional courses like Pharmacy and Engineering, specific subject combinations involving Physics, Chemistry, and Biology are mandatory. Candidates who did not initially select Akwa Ibom State University as their first choice during the JAMB registration are advised to visit the JAMB portal to effect a "Change of Institution" to AKSU to become eligible for the screening exercise.
Administrative Coordination and Future Outlook
The Acting Vice-Chancellor, along with the University Senate, has expressed gratitude to the State Government and the NUC for their support in making this expansion possible. The university has already begun updating its online portal to accommodate applications for these new departments. Detailed information regarding departmental-specific requirements and the schedule for the Post-UTME screening will be communicated through the official university website and social media platforms.
By launching these sixteen programmes, AKSU is not only increasing its student enrollment capacity but also ensuring that its graduates are equipped with globally relevant skills. The university remains committed to maintaining high academic standards and providing a conducive environment for research and learning.