Polytechnics and Universities are the most attended higher institutions in Nigeria.
We have about 120 polytechnics (private and public) and about 170 universities in Nigeria (private and public).
Many Nigerian students always ask this question: Between Polytechnic and University, which one is better?
Is Polytechnic better than University?
Is University better than Polytechnic?
Which one is better for you as a Nigerian student?
You will find out in this article. Are you ready?
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Polytechnic VS University In Nigeria - The Definition
A Polytechnic is a higher institution that qualifies as an institute of technology or vocational training.
Polytechnic focuses on practical and experimental learning, skills and vocational training and thereby issues a Diploma certificate at the end of a program.
A University is a high-level educational and academic research institution where students study for academic degrees.
University focuses on theoretical aspects of a program or courses, offers different kinds of degrees, and thereby a Bachelor's Degree at the end of a course or program.
Polytechnic VS University In Nigeria - The Difference
1. Content of Study
Let's look at the first difference between a Polytechnic and a University - the content of study.
Polytechnics are more practically-oriented, while Universities are more theoretically-oriented.
That means Polytechnic focuses more on the practical aspect of a course or program, and University focuses on the theoretical aspect of a program or course.
Meanwhile, if the course you want to study involves more practical than theory, a polytechnic might be your best choice.
Does that mean a Polytechnic is better than University in this aspect? You bet!
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2. Content of Degree
Another huge difference between a Polytechnic and University is Degree.
The degrees polytechnic and university offer are different. While a Polytechnic offers Diploma Degree (HND), University offers Bachelor's Degree (BSc).
Some schools and international countries do not accept HND for a Master's Degree, and that's a disadvantage for HND graduates.
Moreso, many companies and employers recognize BSc more than HND, and they tend to choose BSc graduate over an HND graduate.
Does that mean a University is better than a Polytechnic in this aspect? Your guess is as good as mine.
3. Duration of Study
Another huge factor to consider is the duration of study at both University and Polytechnic.
At a University, the minimum duration of your programme depends on the course of your study. It can be 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7 years.
At a Polytechnic, the minimum duration of your study is five (5) years. Two years for National Diploma (ND), one-year compulsory Industrial training (IT), and two years for (HND).
Which one is better in this aspect? Your choice!
4. Affordability
Many Nigerian students say most Polytechnics in Nigeria are affordable and less expensive.
Nigerian Universities, on the contrary, are more expensive than Polytechnics.
Looking at the economy of Nigeria, affordability is a great factor when choosing a higher institution.
Which one is better? I bet you can judge that.
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5. Innovation
Innovation is another crucial factor that differentiates a polytechnic and a university.
Polytechnic graduates have practical knowledge and experience, skills and vocational training that encourage them to start up businesses or firms after school.
University graduates have theoretical knowledge about the courses they studied. And that makes it difficult for them to start-up businesses or firms after school.
Does that mean Polytechnic is better than University? Your decision!
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6. Mode of Admission
Getting admission into a polytechnic is easier and lesser than a university.
Admission into a polytechnic is based on your UTME score and other necessary requirements. Getting admission into a university requires your UTME score, post-UTME score, and other paramount requirements.
Most Polytechnics in Nigeria accept 150-180 JAMB scores. Most universities in Nigeria accept nothing less than a 180-270 JAMB score.
Does that mean a Polytechnic is better than a University in this aspect? That's on you!
I hope with these few points you can decide which one is better, whether Polytechnic or University. And you can choose the one that best fits you.
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