NUC Upgrades Medical Programmes in Nigerian Universities to Doctorate Level
The National Universities Commission (NUC) has elevated several medical-related programmes in Nigerian universities from bachelor’s to doctorate status. This development was disclosed in a statement by the Acting Director of Public Affairs, Mrs. Franca Chukwuonwo, in Abuja on Wednesday. According to Chukwuonwo, the upgrade aims to incorporate more clinical and practical sessions, enhance foundational course coverage, improve clinical skills, and comprehensively address all specialty areas. She emphasized that the move aligns with global best practices for training professionals in medical fields. “The decision to upgrade some medical-related programmes was motivated by the need to integrate additional clinical and practical components, ensure adequate foundation course coverage, and enhance clinical expertise across all specialties. This will also align Nigerian certificates with those from similar programmes globally,” Chukwuonwo stated. The upgraded programmes include: Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) Doctor of Physiotherapy (DPT) Doctor of Optometry The duration of these programmes has been extended from five to six years to accommodate the expanded curriculum and practical sessions. Chukwuonwo clarified that the Doctor of Medical Laboratory Science (DMLS) programme is not included in the upgrade and is not approved under the NUC’s Benchmark Minimum Academic Standards (BMAS) or Core Curriculum and Minimum Academic Standards (CCMAS). The statement further noted that the upgrades aim to enhance the global competitiveness, employability, and recognition of Nigerian graduates, ensuring their qualifications are on par with international standards.
