Faculty of Social Sciences
Understanding society, shaping policy, promoting peace, strengthening media literacy and supporting sustainable development through open and distance learning.
Welcome to the Faculty of Social Sciences
The Faculty of Social Sciences at the National Open University of Nigeria provides accessible education in social science disciplines that help students understand human behaviour, institutions, governance, communication, development and social change.
The faculty supports flexible study for students balancing academics with work, public service, media practice, community work and personal responsibilities.
Mission: To provide accessible and affordable social sciences education that fosters critical thinking, ethical leadership and social development.
Departments and Programmes
Programmes Offered
- B.Sc. Criminology and Security Studies
- PGD Criminology and Security Studies
- M.Sc. Criminology and Security Studies
- MPhil and PhD
This department studies crime, security threats, criminal justice systems and strategies for prevention and control.
Career Opportunities: Security Analyst, Law Enforcement Officer, Intelligence Officer, Crime Investigator, Corrections Officer, Risk Manager and Security Consultant.
Programmes Offered
- B.Sc. Development Studies
This department focuses on development theory, policy, poverty, inequality, sustainability and global governance.
Career Opportunities: Development Officer, Project Manager, Policy Analyst, NGO Worker and Consultant.
Programmes Offered
- B.Sc. Economics
- PGD Economics
- MPhil and PhD
The department provides foundations in economic theory, quantitative analysis and policy evaluation.
Career Opportunities: Economist, Financial Analyst, Market Research Analyst, Policy Advisor and Consultant.
Programmes Offered
- B.Sc. Broadcast Journalism
- B.Sc. Film Production
- B.Sc. Mass Communication
- PGD Mass Communication
- M.Sc. Mass Communication
- MPhil and PhD
This department equips students to communicate effectively through print, broadcast, film, digital and public communication platforms.
Career Opportunities: Journalist, Broadcaster, Film Producer, Public Relations Officer, Advertising Executive, Social Media Manager, Content Creator and Media Consultant.
Programmes Offered
- B.Sc. Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution
- PGD Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution
- M.Sc. Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution
- MPhil and PhD
This department helps students analyze, prevent, manage and resolve conflicts across communities, institutions and societies.
Career Opportunities: Peacebuilder, Mediator, Conflict Resolution Specialist, Humanitarian Worker, NGO Officer and Diplomat.
Programmes Offered
- B.Sc. International Relations
- B.Sc. Political Science
This department focuses on political systems, governance, diplomacy and international relations.
Career Opportunities: Political Analyst, Policy Advisor, Government Official, Diplomat, Lobbyist and Campaign Manager.
Programmes Offered
- B.Sc. Tourism Studies
- B.Sc. Hospitality Management
This department prepares students for tourism and hospitality careers, with focus on management, marketing and sustainability.
Career Opportunities: Tourism Officer, Hotel Manager, Event Planner, Travel Agent, Tourism Consultant and Hospitality Manager.
Admissions Information
Admission to the Faculty of Social Sciences requires applicants to meet NOUN’s academic and documentation requirements. Undergraduate applicants may require a JAMB registration number for data verification and eligibility assessment.
- General Admission: Minimum of 5 O’Level credits including English Language and Mathematics.
- Direct Entry: For candidates with A’Level, NCE, OND, HND or equivalent qualifications.
- Inter-University Transfer: For students transferring from other recognized universities.
- Postgraduate Admission: Requires relevant degree/HND and supporting documents based on programme requirements.
Tuition and School Fees
Fees vary by programme, level and registered courses. Students should verify current fees before payment.
- Undergraduate Programmes: Estimated ₦70,000 - ₦120,000 per semester.
- Postgraduate Programmes: Estimated ₦100,000 - ₦150,000 per semester.
These estimates may change and do not include unofficial services or optional learning materials.
Use School Fees CheckerAccreditation by NUC
NOUN is regulated by the National Universities Commission. Students should confirm the current status of specific programmes through official NOUN or NUC sources when applying.
How to Take Exams at NOUN
- Complete course and exam registration.
- Pay all required fees.
- Submit TMAs and meet the minimum TMA eligibility requirement.
- Check the examination timetable and print your exam slip when available.
- Attend exams at your assigned study centre or approved venue with valid ID and exam slip.
Faculty Profiles
Senior Lecturer in Political Science
Research Area: Democratic Governance
Professor of Mass Communication
Research Area: Media Effects
Research Opportunities
The Faculty of Social Sciences supports research that improves governance, conflict resolution, communication, development and social policy.
- Democratic Governance and Political Participation
- Conflict Resolution and Peacebuilding
- Media and Communication Studies
- Socioeconomic Development and Inequality
- Tourism and Sustainable Development
Student Support Resources
- Online learning platform for course materials and assignments.
- E-library access for journals, books and research materials.
- Student counselling services.
- Disability support services.
- TMA support and e-facilitation sessions.
Faculty News and Events
- October 26, 2025: Faculty hosts workshop on conflict resolution and peacebuilding.
- November 15, 2025: Call for papers for international conference on sustainable development.
- December 5, 2025: Faculty members participate in National Governance Summit.