Physiotherapy, also called physical therapy, is a vital healthcare profession that focuses on restoring movement, function, and quality of life for people with injuries, disabilities, or chronic conditions. With the rising demand for rehabilitation services in Nigeria, more universities are now offering accredited physiotherapy programs to train skilled professionals.
If you are planning to study physiotherapy in Nigeria during the 2025/2026 academic session, this guide provides a comprehensive list of universities, their program details, and admission requirements.
Contents
- Federal Universities Offering Physiotherapy
- 1. University of Ibadan (UI), Oyo State
- 2. University of Lagos (UNILAG), Lagos State
- 3. University of Benin (UNIBEN), Edo State
- 4. University of Uyo (UNIUYO), Akwa Ibom State
- 5. University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID), Borno State
- 6. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, Kaduna State
- 7. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), Kwara State
- 8. Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, Anambra State
- 9. Bayero University Kano (BUK), Kano State
- 10. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), Enugu State
- 11. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State
- 12. Federal University of Health Sciences, Azare (FUHSA), Bauchi State
- Private Universities Offering Physiotherapy
- 13. PAMO University of Medical Sciences, Port Harcourt, Rivers State
- 14. Khadija University, Majia, Jigawa State
- 15. Skyline University, Kano State
- 16. Chrisland University, Abeokuta, Ogun State
- Admission Requirements for Physiotherapy in Nigeria
- Why Study Physiotherapy in Nigeria?
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Federal Universities Offering Physiotherapy
1. University of Ibadan (UI), Oyo State
Program: Bachelor of Physiotherapy (BPT)
UI is one of Nigeria’s oldest and most respected medical schools. Its physiotherapy program emphasizes clinical training and medical research, making graduates highly competitive locally and internationally.
2. University of Lagos (UNILAG), Lagos State
Program: Bachelor of Physiotherapy (BPT)
UNILAG offers hands-on training in orthopedic, neurological, and sports physiotherapy. The program is well-regarded for producing graduates who excel in hospital and sports rehabilitation centers.
3. University of Benin (UNIBEN), Edo State
Program: Bachelor of Physiotherapy (BPT)
UNIBEN’s curriculum covers musculoskeletal, orthopedic, and cardiovascular rehabilitation. Students benefit from the university’s strong clinical facilities and teaching hospital.
4. University of Uyo (UNIUYO), Akwa Ibom State
Program: Bachelor of Physiotherapy (BPT)
The program at UNIUYO focuses on medical rehabilitation, injury prevention, and therapeutic techniques, preparing students for careers in hospitals and private practice.
5. University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID), Borno State
Program: Bachelor of Physiotherapy (BPT)
UNIMAID trains students in areas such as sports medicine, neurological physiotherapy, and cardiovascular rehabilitation. It is recognized for its practical, hospital-based approach.
6. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, Kaduna State
Program: Bachelor of Physiotherapy (BPT)
ABU offers one of the most comprehensive physiotherapy programs in northern Nigeria, blending theoretical studies with hands-on clinical experience.
7. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), Kwara State
Program: Bachelor of Physiotherapy (BPT)
Known for its academic discipline and innovation, UNILORIN’s physiotherapy program trains students to deliver high-quality patient care and research.
8. Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, Anambra State
Program: Bachelor of Physiotherapy (BPT)
UNIZIK focuses on preparing physiotherapists with both academic and practical skills to work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and community health programs.
9. Bayero University Kano (BUK), Kano State
Program: Bachelor of Physiotherapy (BPT)
BUK’s program emphasizes rehabilitation techniques and clinical exposure, preparing students to meet Nigeria’s growing healthcare needs.
10. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), Enugu State
Program: Bachelor of Physiotherapy (BPT)
UNN combines strong academic foundations with extensive clinical practice, ensuring students graduate with well-rounded skills.
11. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State
Program: Bachelor of Physiotherapy (BPT)
OAU’s program is robust, focusing on building both technical expertise and patient-centered care.
12. Federal University of Health Sciences, Azare (FUHSA), Bauchi State
Program: Bachelor of Physiotherapy (BPT)
Established in 2021, FUHSA provides modern training facilities and emphasizes practical learning in its physiotherapy program.
Private Universities Offering Physiotherapy
13. PAMO University of Medical Sciences, Port Harcourt, Rivers State
Program: Bachelor of Physiotherapy (BPT)
PAMO is Nigeria’s first private medical university. Its physiotherapy program focuses on allied health sciences and modern rehabilitation practices.
14. Khadija University, Majia, Jigawa State
Program: Bachelor of Physiotherapy (BPT)
Khadija University offers a balanced mix of theoretical and practical training, preparing graduates for clinical and research careers.
15. Skyline University, Kano State
Program: Doctor of Physiotherapy (DPT)
Skyline offers an advanced Doctor of Physiotherapy degree, equipping students with specialized clinical training and research skills.
16. Chrisland University, Abeokuta, Ogun State
Program: Doctor of Physiotherapy (DPT)
Chrisland University is the first institution in Africa to receive full accreditation for its physiotherapy program from both the National Universities Commission (NUC) and the Medical Rehabilitation Therapists (Registration) Board of Nigeria. Its DPT program prepares students to work as clinicians, educators, and administrators.
Admission Requirements for Physiotherapy in Nigeria
To study physiotherapy in Nigerian universities, candidates generally need:
- SSCE Requirements: Five credit passes in English Language, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics.
- UTME Requirements: Relevant subject combinations, usually including Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
- Post-UTME Screening: Some universities may require an additional screening or interview.
- Transfer Students: For example, Chrisland University requires a minimum CGPA of 3.0 and specific credits from related science courses.
Why Study Physiotherapy in Nigeria?
- High Demand: Physiotherapists are increasingly needed in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and sports medicine.
- Global Opportunities: Nigerian-trained physiotherapists can practice internationally with further licensing.
- Career Flexibility: Graduates can work in hospitals, private clinics, sports facilities, NGOs, or academic institutions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How many years is physiotherapy in Nigeria?
Most programs last 5 years for the BPT, while the Doctor of Physiotherapy (DPT) may take longer.
2. Which university offers Doctor of Physiotherapy in Nigeria?
Skyline University and Chrisland University currently offer the DPT program.
3. Is physiotherapy a good career in Nigeria?
Yes. With the increasing need for rehabilitation and mobility support, physiotherapy offers strong job prospects and opportunities for global practice.
4. What is the difference between BPT and DPT?
- BPT (Bachelor of Physiotherapy): Undergraduate program (entry-level).
- DPT (Doctor of Physiotherapy): Advanced program with greater clinical and research focus.
Studying physiotherapy in Nigeria provides a pathway into a rewarding healthcare career. Whether you choose a federal university with established medical facilities or a private university with advanced programs like the DPT, you will gain the skills to make a meaningful impact in patient care.
Before applying, always check the official university websites or admissions offices for the most current requirements and updates.
