National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) Masters Courses and Requirements 2026: A Complete Guide

Are you planning to advance your education and career with a master’s degree in Nigeria?

The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) is one of the most accessible and flexible options for postgraduate studies. With its online and distance learning programs, NOUN allows students from across Nigeria and even internationally to pursue quality education without disrupting their professional or personal lives.

This guide will walk you through all the NOUN master’s courses, admission requirements, and helpful tips for applying in 2026.

About NOUN

The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) is one of the leading open and distance learning institutions in Africa. Established with the mission of providing accessible, flexible, and high-quality education, NOUN allows students to learn at their own pace, making it ideal for working professionals, parents, or anyone seeking further education without relocating.

With a focus on lifelong learning, NOUN offers various undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, including Master’s degrees in multiple disciplines. Its flexible learning system is supported by modern technology, virtual libraries, and continuous assessment methods.

Master’s Courses Offered at NOUN in 2026

Master’s Programme	Specializations	Target Students
Master of Business Administration (MBA)	Human Resource Management, Marketing, Finance, Public Administration	Professionals seeking to advance in business or management roles
Master of Science (MSc) in Education	Educational Management, Guidance and Counselling, Science Education, Curriculum Studies	Teachers, educational administrators, and education enthusiasts
Master of Science (MSc) in Information Technology	Software Engineering, Network Security, Data Analytics	IT professionals aiming to enhance technical skills
Master of Public Administration (MPA)	Policy Analysis, Governance, Public Sector Management	Civil servants, public policy analysts, and administration professionals
Master of Arts (MA) in Peace and Conflict Studies	Conflict Resolution, Humanitarian Studies, Diplomacy	Professionals in NGOs, government, and international organizations

Entry Requirements for NOUN Master’s Programmes 2026

1. Academic Qualifications

To be eligible for a Master’s programme at NOUN, applicants must hold a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university. While a Second Class Upper division is generally preferred, some programmes may accept candidates with a Second Class Lower division. Ensuring you meet the academic requirement is the first step toward a successful application.

2. Professional Experience

Certain programmes, particularly the MBA and MPA, require applicants to have at least 2–3 years of relevant work experience. Having leadership or management experience is advantageous, as it strengthens your application and demonstrates practical knowledge in your field of study.

3. Application Documents

Applicants are expected to submit several key documents as part of their application. These include academic transcripts and certificates, a statement of purpose or personal statement outlining career goals and motivation, 2–3 letters of recommendation from credible referees, and a Curriculum Vitae (CV) highlighting relevant work experience. Properly prepared documentation can significantly improve your chances of acceptance.

4. English Proficiency

Since NOUN conducts its programmes in English, international students may need to provide proof of English proficiency. Accepted forms of evidence include standardized test scores such as TOEFL or IELTS. This ensures that all students can effectively participate in and benefit from the programme.

Career Opportunities After NOUN Master’s

Field	Potential Career Opportunities
Business and Management	Senior managerial roles, consulting, entrepreneurship
Education	School administration, educational policy, curriculum development
Information Technology	Systems management, cybersecurity, data analytics
Public Administration	Government agencies, NGOs, international organizations
Peace and Conflict Studies	Conflict resolution, diplomacy, humanitarian work