Are you planning to pursue Arts combined Honours within Nigeria in the 2025/2026 academic year? It’s crucial to be aware that this programme lets students study at least two disciplines of the arts together, like English as well as History, Linguistics, and Yoruba, and Philosophy or Religious Studies.
However, before applying, you’ll need the proper JAMB subject combination, O’Level requirements, and a thorough understanding of universities that offer this degree with a flexible format. This comprehensive guide will take you through the steps you must take.
What Is Arts Combined Honours?
Arts Honours is an advanced degree that lets you study two disciplines within one program. For instance:
- English & History
- Linguistics & Yoruba
- Philosophy & Religious Studies
- French & German
- Music & Theatre Arts
This program is ideal for students who love different aspects within the Arts and would like to learn more about many areas.
Career Paths in Nigeria:
- Teacher or Lecturer
- Editor or Journalist
- Diplomat or Language Specialist
- Content Writer
- Media Consultant
- Public Relations Officer
JAMB Subject Combination for Arts Combined Honours (2026)
Since this course is a combination of two subjects, the JAMB subject mix is dependent on the department you’re joining.
However, the majority of arts Combined Honours courses require:
- English Language (Compulsory)
- Two subjects that relate to each field (e.g., Literature for English CRS, for Religious Studies)
- Another Arts or Social Science subject
Example Combinations:
Combined Course JAMB Subjects
English & History English, Literature, History, Government
Linguistics & Yoruba English, Yoruba, Literature, CRS
Philosophy & CRS English, CRS, Government, Literature
French & German English, French, Literature, CRS
Music & Theatre Arts, English, Music, Literature, CRS, or Fine Arts
Always verify with the institution that offers the course because preferences may differ.
Why These Subjects Matter
- English is required for all classes.
- Literature is required in the majority of combinations.
- History/Government: It is useful for humanities-related combinations.
- CRS/IRS: Needed for Religious Studies or Philosophy.
- Subjects of language required in Yoruba, French, German, and more.
WAEC / NECO / O’Level Requirements
You must have at the very least 5 (5) credit scores that include:
- English Language
- Literature-in-English
- Two additional subjects (History CRS/IRS Yoruba, French, etc.)
- One more Arts or Social Science subject
Two sittings are acceptable in the majority of schools.
Certain schools require credit for both subjects.
Direct Entry Requirements
Direct Entry choices include:
- A-Level/IJMB scores in two pertinent Arts subjects
- NCE / ND HND in related fields such as Literature, History, Yoruba, and more.
- JUPEB with subject combinations that match your degree
Certain universities will accept the Direct Entry to the 200 level.
Top Nigerian Universities Offering Arts Combined Honours
These are the universities which offer Arts combined Honours courses:
University | Type | Approx. Cut-Off Mark | Sample Combinations |
|---|---|---|---|
Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) | Federal | 180-220 | English & History, Linguistics & Yoruba |
University of Ibadan (UI) | Federal | 200-240 | Philosophy & Religious Studies |
University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) | Federal | 180-220 | French & German, Music & Theatre |
Lagos State University (LASU) | State | 160-200 | Yoruba & CRS |
Ekiti State University | State | 160-190 | English & History |
Each school will list the different combinations. Verify by referring to the brochure of their school.
Polytechnics Offering Related Courses
Polytechnics does not provide “Arts Combined Honours” directly however you can take related diplomas, such as:
- Mass Communication
- Theatre Arts
- Music Technology
- Languages or Cultural Studies
After ND after ND, you may apply to a school through Direct Entry into a similar program.
Related Courses & Their JAMB Subject Combinations
Here are a few similar or alternative courses:
Course | UTME Subjects | Notes |
|---|---|---|
English | English, Literature, CRS, Government | Pure Literature focus |
History | English, History, CRS, Literature | Pure History |
Linguistics | English, Literature, CRS, Yoruba | Language science |
Philosophy | English, CRS, Literature, Government | Critical thinking |
Religious Studies | English, CRS, Literature, IRS | Theology-focused |
French | English, French, Literature, CRS | Language-based |
Theatre Arts | English, Literature, Fine Arts, CRS | Arts of performance |
Education/Arts | English, Literature, History, CRS | To teach |
Admission Tips & Common Mistakes
- Unsuitable subject mix Select subjects that are relevant to both disciplines.
- Skips specific subject lists for schools Certain schools have a preference for certain subjects.
- Poor O’Level scores You need to have credit in both of the main subjects.
- Late Post-UTME registration: Always check deadlines.
Check out universities.ng for latest Updates on Post-UTME..
Cut-Off Marks: What Score Is Safe?
Arts Arts Honours can be moderately competitive dependent on the school.
Suggested Score Ranges:
- Minimum: 170
- Competitive: 200+
- Top-tier advantage: 220-240 (UI, OAU)
FAQ Section
- What is Arts Combined Honours?
A degree that allows you to learn two subjects in the arts in tandem. - Can I mix English with History?
Yes. It is very common and accepted by numerous universities. - Is literature mandatory?
In most cases, Yes. - Can I use IRS and CRS in conjunction?
The majority of schools have only one and not the other. - Do I require Yoruba to learn? Linguistics or Yoruba?
Yes. Credit is available in Yoruba and JAMB is also a subject. - Does French and German accessible within Nigerian education?
Yes, some schools such as UNN provide it. - What is the cut-off point to be used for English & History at OAU?
About 200-230 The number of people affected varies from year to year. - Are private institutions able to provide Arts Combined Honours?
Very few do. Verify that the facility is available. - Do I have the option of switching From Education into Combined Honours?
Yes, if you satisfy the prerequisites and have a subject that matches. - Do I require Fine Arts in WAEC for Theatre Arts combo?
Not required, but useful. - Does Music & Theatre Arts a acceptable combination?
Yes. Schools offering it are similar to UNN. - Do I have to utilize Mass Comm to gain entry Direct Entry?
Only if it’s aligned in the same coursecheck with the school and check by contacting the institution. - What is the length of the duration of an Arts Combined Honours degree?
4. (UTME) 3 years (Direct Entry) - Do I have the ability to combine WAEC with NECO result?
Yes you can, provided that your school permits two classes. - Do I have the ability to mix Philosophy with Political Science?
Certain schools permit this. Go through the brochure of their school.
Admission Checklist
- Confirm that the JAMB subject combination is compatible with each subject
- At the very least 5 O’Level credits that are relevant.
- Sign up to be eligible for Post-UTME at the right time.
- Create transcripts to be used in Direct Entry If needed, prepare transcripts for Direct Entry
- Keep an eye on the your school admissions portal for the latest information.
Conclusion
Arts Arts Honours offers you the opportunity to pursue several interests within one degree. If you’re interested in the arts, culture, religion or the past, this is a great option.
Get started early, select the best subject combination, and be aware of the admissions dates.
Go to universities.ng for latest cut-off information and admissions guides for specific schools.
Check out our selection of best universities to study Arts Joint honours courses from Nigeria.
Read: How to Change Institution in JAMB After Results.
