Best universities for studying architecture in Nigeria: A guide to top programmes and institutions

Simply put, architecture is a course that equips students with the art and practice of designing and constructing buildings. In Nigeria, it is a highly marketable course. Every year, thousands of high school graduates consider pursuing architectural programmes. It is important to explore the best universities for studying architecture in Nigeria before applying for your dream course.

Key takeaways

• The best universities for studying architecture in Nigeria include the Federal University of Technology, Akure, and Covenant University.
• Architecture is among the most marketable courses in the country.
• Some institutions offer BSc. Architecture, while others have architectural engineering.

Best universities for studying architecture in Nigeria

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Below is a list of the best universities for studying architecture in Nigeria in 2025 ranked by EduRank according to their research performance in architecture or architectural engineering. Note that the list may be subjective.

10. Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH)

• Location: Ogbomoso, Oyo State
• Founded: 23 April 1990
• Motto: Excellence, Integrity and Service
• Type: Public

Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) is a public research institution that enrols nearly 30,000 students in seven faculties and a college. The Department of Architecture focuses on developing skills in architecture and environmental sciences.

9. Federal University of Technology, Minna

• Location: Minna, Niger
• Founded: 1983
• Motto: Technology for Empowerment
• Type: Federal Government-owned

The Federal University of Technology, Minna, specialises in technological education and offers bachelor's and master's degrees in various technology-related fields. It is on the list of federal universities that offer architecture in Nigeria. Architecture is offered in the Department of Architecture. The course does not just give students education and experiences but also helps them succeed in their chosen careers.

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8. Ahmadu Bello University

• Location: Zaria, Kaduna
• Founded: 4 October 1962
• Motto: The first duty of every university is the search for and the spread of knowledge and the establishment of the nation
• Type: Public research university

Ahmadu Bello University is on the list of universities that offer architecture in Nigeria. It was opened in 1962 as the University of Northern Nigeria. The Department of Architecture offers a Bachelor of Science (Architecture) degree.

7. Nnamdi Azikiwe University

• Location: Awka, Anambra State
• Founded: 1991
• Motto: Discipline, Self Reliance and Excellence
• Type: Public

Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, is a federal university in Nigeria. In 1992, the national government took over funding and administration of the university, from the state government. The undergraduate architecture programme at this university offers full-time courses in architecture for four years.

6. University of Nigeria

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• Location: Nsukka, Enugu
• Founded: 1955
• Motto: To Restore the Dignity of Man
• Type: Federal public research university

The University of Nigeria is ranked among the top universities in Nigeria and Africa. It was the first land-grant university in Africa. The Department of Architecture offers a four-year programme and a three-year programme for direct entry students that leads to the degree of Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Architecture.

5. University of Ibadan

• Location: Ibadan, Oyo
• Founded: 1948
• Motto: Recte Sapere Fons (To think straight is the fount of knowledge)
• Type: Public

The University of Ibadan is among the best state universities that offer architecture in Nigeria. The institution offers undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in architecture. These programmes prepare students for careers in building design, planning, and construction.

4. University of Lagos

• Location: Mainland Akoka, Yaba, Lagos
• Founded: 1962
• Motto: In deed and in truth
• Type: Public

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The University of Lagos is among the top 10 best universities for studying architecture in Nigeria in 2025. Founded in 1962, it is one of the first-generation universities in the country and consistently ranks among the top universities in Africa. The Department of Architecture at this university aims to become the pace-setting Department of Architecture in Nigeria and beyond.

3. Obafemi Awolowo University

• Location: Ile-Ife, Osun
• Founded: 1961
• Motto: For Learning and Culture
• Type: Federal university

At Obafemi Awolowo University, the Department of Architecture was established as a distinct academic unit in 1982. The BSc. Architecture and M.Sc. programmes are designed as parts of a comprehensive programme leading to the first professional degree.

2. Covenant University

• Location: Ota, Ogun State
• Founded: 21 October 2002
• Motto: Raising a New Generation of Leaders
• Type: Private Christian university

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Covenant University is arguably the best private university to study architecture in Nigeria. It is affiliated with Living Faith Church Worldwide and is a member of the Association of Commonwealth Universities. Covenant University has a Department of Architecture that offers a four-year programme leading to the award of the BSc. Architecture degree.

1. Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA)

• Location: Gaga, Ondo
• Founded: 1981
• Motto: Technology for Self Reliance
• Type: Federal university

The Federal University of Technology, Akure, is a top-ranking university of technology in Nigeria. The overall philosophy of the training programme in the Department of Architecture is to produce competent, skilled, and versatile graduates who can handle the work environment.

What is the cut-off mark for architecture in Nigerian universities?

The cut-off mark for architecture in Nigerian universities may vary from one institution to another. Each university sets its cut-off marks. Even so, the cut-off points for architecture are generally high.

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Which university has the best architecture programme?

In Nigeria, the Federal University of Technology, Akure, arguably has the best architecture programme. On the global front, those on top of the list include Carnegie Mellon University, the University of California - Berkeley, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and Stanford University.

Does architecture pay well in Nigeria?

Architecture is among the highest-paying courses in Nigeria. Architects in the country can earn a good salary.

Which university is the best to study architecture?

The best university to study architecture in Nigeria is the Federal University of Technology, Akure.

How many years does it take to study architecture in Nigeria?

It takes an average of four academic years to study architecture in Nigerian universities.

The best universities for studying architecture in Nigeria include the Federal University of Technology, Akure, Covenant University, Obafemi Awolowo University, the University of Lagos, and the University of Ibadan.

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Legit.ng recently published a list of the best universities for civil engineering in Nigeria. Civil engineering is among the most prestigious courses in Nigeria and beyond.

Civil engineers plan, design, construct, maintain, and operate infrastructure. The best university for civil engineering in Nigeria offers a world-class education.

Source: Legit.ng