Top 10 Highest Paying Science Courses in Nigeria

If you are a student or graduate of the Sciences, welcome to the ultra-noble family. The great innovators and problem-solvers, ever seeking out the mysteries of creation. The foundations of both Pure and Applied Sciences are typically these four courses which are Chemistry, Physics, Biology and Mathematics. And it would be worth the while to know the top 10 highest-paying science courses in Nigeria.  Because the economic outlook in today’s Nigeria deems it fit to be in a profession that profits you.

That is not suggesting that you abandon your passion or personal preferences just to earn a living. However, if you can pursue your passion along with a profitable course closely related to it, the better for you. Or choose a profitable science course that does not interfere with other vocational skills you are interested in, then good. Planning and thinking ahead in your career choice will eventually spare you of future stagnation or frustration.

Let’s examine top 10 highest-paying science courses in Nigeria, check their requirements and why they are recommended. The list of profitable science courses here is perhaps not exhaustive. But judging from the experience and feedback from the practitioners, we can assure you of becoming a top earner within a few years of your commitment. 

ICT/Computer-oriented courses

ICT is the modern umbrella term covering all courses related to Computing and computer-oriented technology. ICT is a very broad, ever expanding family of computer and related technology courses. As new technologies emerge, be sure that an ICT course related to it will be birthed. So long as that technology requires computing work. And get ready – an ICT expert remains a learner for life! You don’t ever stop learning new tools and tricks to conquer the world. Within a few years of dedication to learning the basics, you can become a top earner in an ICT profession.

Not only that, but many other professions now need ICT experts to automate or power up their work using computer infrastructure. A few of the popular fields of specialization in ICT include:

• Computer Engineering & Networking
• Data science
• Programming
• Artificial Intelligence & Machine learning
• Software development
• Web development
• Graphics Design
• Digital/Social media marketing
• Technical Writing
• Quality Assurance Product Testing 

Medicine and Surgery

Aside from ICT and engineering professions, it is widely acknowledged that Medicine is probably one of the most lucrative science fields. Medicine covers all the knowledge and practice of detecting, preventing and curing diseases. Surgery is one step ahead – using tools to physically cut into the body and remove or treat deformities. Both Medicine and Surgery involve years of learning, practice and specialization to handle health issues effectively. As such, medical experts are in high demand in Nigeria and worldwide as well, and they are well paid.

World health bodies, research centres, laboratories and hospitals are constantly on the hunt for doctors and surgeons who can prove their mettle. 

Also Read- How to Check Your WAEC Results

Engineering courses

Engineering is a broad group of  applied sciences. It deals with the design, building and application of machines and physical (or chemical) structures. Engineering courses are practical-oriented. They require intensive study and use of principles in Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry and Biology to build physical structures that can stand the test of time. So engineers are in high demand in many big organizations, which include real estate, aviation, shipping, car assembly, road construction, computing, chemical industries, oil and gas, and many more. Some of the most popular fields of engineering include:

• Mechanical engineering
• Civil engineering
• Chemical engineering
• Aeronautical engineering
• Computer engineering
• Electrical engineering

Biochemistry

Biochemistry is the study of chemical activity at work in living organisms, how elements of matter interact and transform themselves in living tissues. This knowledge of chemical reactions in living matter is in great demand in places such as hospitals, food and cosmetic industries, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, crime forensics and more. 

Dentistry

Also called oral medicine or dental surgery. This medical field focuses on the diagnosis, management and treatment of disorders and conditions relating to the teeth, gums and mouth. As mouth and teeth disorders are fairly common, dentists are in fairly large demand and their expertise well rewarded. We often find dentists working in places such as hospitals, research institutions, and private practice. 

Microbiology

This unique field involves the study of microorganisms and how they operate. These microorganisms live inside and all over other bigger organisms, in the air, water and ground. They affect all living and even non-living processes on the Earth both positively and negatively. Microbiology has a broad range of applications in the food and beverage industries, hospitals, pharmaceuticals, research centers, oil and gas, universities and more places where they are well paid. 

Nursing

Nursing is an offshoot of the medical field, which deals with taking care of the sick until they recover. Nurses are indispensable assistants to other medical practitioners. They are the ones that would carefully monitor patients, administer drugs and food, conduct tests where necessary, until the patient gets well. They are closer to the patient, and their actions often determine the speed of recovery of sick people under their custody. As such, nurses are always in high demand in clinics, sports facilities, schools and hospitals. Additionally, more men are getting trained as nurses than in times gone when it was women-dominated. 

Pharmacy

This profession deals with the study of the production and correct administration of medicinal drugs. We know by now that medicine and drugs are inseparable. So we need pharmacists (or chemists) to help doctors prepare the right and safe medicinal formulas for treating each kind of ailment. Pharmacists must have an in-depth knowledge of the chemistry of different drugs and how to correctly use them. Pharmacists are in huge demand in hospitals, private-owned pharmacies, and laboratories. 

Food Science & Technology

Simply put, food science and technology is the study of the composition of food, and how to preserve, process, package and use food in a safe way. A food scientist would need requisite knowledge of biochemistry, microbiology, food nutrition, biotechnology and other food-related fields. 

The food industry is clearly the largest industry on the whole Earth. Thus we need this branch of agricultural science to reduce food wastage and mitigate against food poisoning. Food technologists work in food and beverage industries, agricultural research centers, laboratories, and universities where they are handsomely paid. 

Industrial Physics

This is the application of the knowledge and principles of Physics in the manufacture of products. It has a broad application in industries, and is the key driver of innovation and improved technology everywhere. In any place where advances in manufactured technology are taking place, you should find industrial physicists there. Advanced machines, powerful computers, improved product designs, weapons, renewable energy, better vehicles, satellite technology are some of their products. They are definitely highly paid and sought after. 

Veterinary Medicine

A veterinary doctor is simply a medical specialist trained in diagnosing and treating ailments, injuries and disorders in animals (both domesticated and wild). He/she also helps to prevent transmission of diseases from animals to humans (and maybe vice versa). Vets can also help in the selective breeding, care and nutrition of animals in the agricultural sector. They may not be in large numbers around town, but their services are in high demand among pet owners and animal farmers. Vets may be found working in research centres or as private practice. 

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Robin Okwanma

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