Music is a practical and academic course that develops knowledge of musical performance, theory, composition, history and analysis.
Students may study areas such as African music, Western music, musical instruments, aural training, performance techniques and music technology. The programme is not limited to singing or playing an instrument; it also involves understanding how music is written, structured, performed and interpreted.
Because Music is a specialised Arts course, some universities may require more than the normal academic subjects. Depending on the institution, candidates may also need to meet audition requirements or present recognised music qualifications.
This guide explains the JAMB subject combination for Music for the 2027/2028 admission session, together with the O’Level, Direct Entry and other admission requirements candidates should know.
Read also:
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- JAMB Registration Accredited CBT Centres 2026/2027
JAMB Subject Combination for Music 2027/2028
The general JAMB UTME subject combination for Music is:
| Subject | Requirement |
|---|---|
| English Language | Compulsory |
| Music | Required |
| One Arts subject | Required |
| One other subject | Required |
Your four UTME subjects should therefore be:
English Language, Music, one other Arts subject, and one other subject.
The additional Arts subject may come from areas such as Literature in English, CRS/IRS, Government, History or another accepted Arts subject.
Music is the key subject in the general combination because the programme is centred on musical knowledge and practical ability.
However, some universities use different combinations. For example, certain institutions may accept broader Arts or Social Science subjects, while others may give special consideration to recognised professional music certificates.
Candidates should therefore check both the UTME subject requirement and any additional Music-specific condition set by their preferred university.
O’Level Requirements for Music
The general O’Level requirement for Music is five SSC credit passes, including:
- English Language
- Music
- Three other relevant subjects
A simple breakdown is shown below:
| O’Level Subject | Requirement |
|---|---|
| English Language | Credit required |
| Music | Credit required |
| Other relevant subjects | Three additional credits |
The remaining subjects may come from Arts, Social Sciences, Sciences or other areas accepted by the university.
However, not every institution insists on an O’Level credit in Music. Some universities may accept candidates without it, especially where they meet other academic conditions or possess a recognised music qualification.
For example, some institutions recognise certificates from bodies such as ABRSM, MUSON or Trinity College of Music as evidence of musical training under their own admission rules.
Candidates should also pay attention to Mathematics and Literature in English because certain universities may include one or both among their O’Level requirements.
The exact O’Level combination should therefore be checked against the university where you intend to study Music.
Direct Entry Requirements for Music
For Music, the general Direct Entry requirement is:
- Two A’Level passes, including Music.
Universities may also accept other relevant qualifications, especially where the applicant has formal training in Music.
Common alternatives accepted by some institutions include:
| Qualification | Possible Requirement |
|---|---|
| A’Level | Two passes including Music |
| NCE | Music or Music Education, usually with an acceptable grade |
| ND | Music, Music Technology or a related programme |
| HND | Relevant Music qualification where accepted |
| JUPEB | Relevant subjects, including Music where required |
| Professional Music Certificate | May be accepted by some universities under specific conditions |
For example, the University of Ibadan accepts qualifications such as ND/HND Upper Credit in Music, NCE Music, A’Level Music, and certain advanced recognised music certificates under its Direct Entry conditions.
OAU also considers qualifications such as NCE Music, recognised Grade VIII music certificates and relevant Music diplomas, subject to its admission conditions.
Mountain Top University accepts routes that may include A’Level Music, JUPEB Music, ND, NCE Music and specified professional music certificates.
Direct Entry applicants should therefore check the exact qualification and minimum grade accepted by their chosen university before applying.
JAMB Subject Combination and Admission Requirements for Music at a Glance
| Admission Category | General Requirement |
|---|---|
| JAMB UTME Subjects | English Language, Music, one other Arts subject and one other subject |
| O’Level Requirement | Five SSC credit passes |
| Key O’Level Subjects | English Language and Music |
| Direct Entry | Two A’Level passes including Music |
| Other Accepted Qualifications | NCE, ND, HND, JUPEB or recognised music certificates may be accepted by some universities |
| Additional Requirement | Some universities may require an audition |
Special Consideration and University-Specific Requirements
Music has several university-specific admission conditions, so the general requirements should not be used without checking the institution concerned.
Some important examples include:
- University of Ibadan does not insist on an O’Level credit in Music. It also accepts several Direct Entry routes, including relevant Music qualifications and recognised advanced music certificates.
- Obafemi Awolowo University does not require O’Level Music as a compulsory credit. It also recognises some professional music qualifications and relevant diplomas for Direct Entry.
- University of Port Harcourt requires five SSC credits in English Language and four other accepted subjects, which may include Music, Literature in English, Government, Economics, Mathematics, Sciences and other listed subjects.
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka may accept recognised Music certificates and relevant Music qualifications for Direct Entry. Candidates are also required to meet its audition condition.
- University of Uyo does not insist on an O’Level credit in Music and may consider recognised Music certificates as an added advantage. Candidates are also expected to satisfy its audition requirement.
- Delta State University does not insist on an O’Level credit in Music, but candidates applying through either UTME or Direct Entry must pass the departmental audition.
- Mountain Top University accepts recognised certificates from bodies such as ABRSM, MUSON and Trinity College of Music under specified conditions. A credit in Music at O’Level is desirable but not compulsory under its stated requirement.
- Bowen University recognises certain professional Music certificates and may accept relevant Arts or Social Science subjects under its admission conditions.
These differences are important because a candidate who does not have Music at O’Level may still qualify for some universities, while another institution may insist on it or require additional practical evidence of musical ability.
Candidates should therefore check three things before choosing a university for Music: the required UTME subjects, the accepted O’Level combination, and whether an audition or recognised Music certificate is needed.
Music and Related Courses
Music is connected to several programmes that combine performance, creativity, education and the performing arts.
Related courses include:
- Music Education
- Music Technology
- Performing Arts
- Creative Arts
- Theatre Arts
- Music Production
- Arts Education
Although these programmes may share some subjects, they are not the same course. Their JAMB, O’Level and Direct Entry requirements can also differ.
For example, Music Education combines musical training with teaching and education courses, while programmes such as Performing Arts or Creative Arts may combine Music with other areas such as theatre, dance or visual arts.
Core Focus Areas
Students studying Music may be exposed to several areas of musical theory and practice, including:
- Music Theory and Rudiments: Understanding notation, scales, keys, rhythm, harmony and other foundations of written music.
- Performance: Developing practical skills in singing or playing musical instruments.
- Composition: Learning how to organise musical ideas and create original musical works.
- African Music: Studying traditional and contemporary African musical forms, instruments and performance practices.
- Western Music: Examining Western music history, styles, forms and composers.
- Aural Skills: Developing the ability to recognise and analyse musical sounds, rhythms, melodies and harmonies by listening.
- Musical Instruments: Learning about different instruments, their classifications and how they are used in performance.
- Music Technology: Exploring digital tools and software used for notation, recording, arrangement and music production.
How Music Differs from Music Education
Music focuses mainly on musical knowledge, theory, performance, composition, history and analysis.
Music Education combines these musical areas with teaching methods, educational theory and professional training for teaching Music.
This means a student who wants deeper training in performance, composition or music studies may choose Music, while someone interested in combining Music with a teaching career may consider Music Education.
The two programmes are closely related, but their admission requirements and course structure should be checked separately.
Typical Career Paths
A degree in Music can lead to opportunities in performance, production, education, research and the wider creative industry.
Some possible career directions include:
- Musician or Performer: Performing as a vocalist, instrumentalist or member of an ensemble.
- Composer: Creating original music for live performance, media, stage productions and other projects.
- Music Producer: Working on the recording, arrangement and development of musical projects.
- Music Director: Coordinating musical performances, ensembles, choirs or other productions.
- Music Researcher: Studying musical traditions, history, theory and cultural practices.
- Studio or Sound Professional: Working in areas connected with recording, audio production and music technology.
- Arts Administrator: Supporting the planning and management of concerts, festivals, cultural organisations and creative programmes.
- Music Teacher: Teaching Music in schools or other learning environments where the required professional teaching qualification is obtained.
Important Things to Know Before Choosing Music in JAMB
Music is different from many other Arts courses because universities may consider both academic qualifications and practical musical ability.
Keep these points in mind:
- Music is part of the general UTME combination. The standard requirement includes Music, one Arts subject and another subject alongside English Language.
- O’Level Music is not compulsory everywhere. Although it appears in the general requirement, some universities specifically waive it.
- Professional Music certificates can be useful. Qualifications from recognised bodies such as ABRSM, MUSON or Trinity College of Music may be accepted by certain institutions under specific conditions.
- An audition may be required. Some universities assess a candidate’s practical ability through a departmental audition.
- Direct Entry options can be broad. Relevant NCE, ND, HND, diploma, JUPEB or advanced Music qualifications may be accepted depending on the university.
- Music and Music Education are different programmes. Candidates should check the requirement for the exact course they intend to study rather than assuming both follow the same admission rules.
A candidate may satisfy the normal academic requirements and still need to complete an additional Music-specific condition before admission is granted.
FAQ About JAMB Subject Combination for Music 2027/2028
What is the JAMB subject combination for Music?
The general UTME subject combination for Music is English Language, Music, one other Arts subject, and one other subject.
Some universities may accept a slightly different combination, so candidates should check the requirement of their preferred institution.
Is Music compulsory in JAMB for Music?
Under the general requirement, Music is part of the UTME subject combination.
However, some universities may apply special consideration and accept other subject arrangements.
Is Music compulsory in WAEC for studying Music?
The general O’Level requirement includes a credit in Music and English Language.
However, some universities do not insist on an O’Level credit in Music. Institutions such as the University of Ibadan and OAU have provisions where Music at O’Level is not compulsory under their stated requirements.
Is Mathematics compulsory for Music?
Mathematics is not listed as a compulsory subject in the general UTME combination for Music.
At O’Level, the Mathematics requirement depends on the university. Some institutions may include it among the required five credits, while others use different subject combinations.
What are the O’Level requirements for Music?
The general requirement is five SSC credit passes including English Language and Music, together with three other relevant subjects.
Some universities may waive the Music credit or accept recognised professional Music certificates under specified conditions.
Can I study Music through Direct Entry?
Yes. The general Direct Entry requirement is two A’Level passes including Music.
Depending on the university, candidates may also qualify with relevant NCE, ND, HND, JUPEB, diploma or recognised professional Music qualifications. Additional conditions such as an audition may also apply.
Conclusion
Music is a specialised Arts programme that combines academic study with practical musical training.
For UTME, the general subject combination is English Language, Music, one other Arts subject, and one other subject. At O’Level, candidates generally need five credit passes including English Language and Music, while Direct Entry applicants may qualify through A’Level Music or other accepted qualifications such as NCE, ND, HND, JUPEB, diplomas or recognised professional Music certificates.
One important point is that universities do not all apply the same conditions. Some may waive O’Level Music, while others recognise qualifications from bodies such as ABRSM, MUSON or Trinity College of Music. Certain institutions may also require candidates to pass a departmental audition.
Before choosing Music in JAMB, confirm the exact subject combination, O’Level requirement and any practical or audition condition of your preferred university.
A strong application for Music should match both the academic requirements and any musical qualification or practical assessment required by the institution.