Introduction

Are you a music enthusiast hoping to make a living from your love? Nigeria has excellent university programs with robust music departments, ranging from contemporary music production centers to classical conservatoires. In this list, we’ve evaluated the 10 top Nigerian colleges for music in 2025, based on quality of education, research output, infrastructure, and career assistance.

How We Ranked These Universities

1. Academic performance & research — universities with multiple peer-reviewed music publications scored higher, per Edurank research Babcock University+12EduRank+12University Compass+12Unijos+2Top Universities+2Babcock University+2Times Higher Education (THE)+2PositiveNaija+2Mountain Top University+2PositiveNaija+3University Compass+3Babcock University+3Faculty of Arts+1University Compass+1Humanities University of Port HarcourtWikipedia+2Babcock University+2University Compass+2University Compass+2Mountain Top University+2Wikipedia+2WikipediaWikipedia

2. Accreditation & facilities — only NUC-accredited programs with proper music labs, theatres, and studios

3. Alumni success — institutions known for producing musicians, composers, and industry professionals

1. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)

Founded in 1960, UNN offers a Bachelor of Music degree with deep coursework in Western and African music, performance, and music technology University Of Nigeria NsukkaNigerian Search Guide. Highly ranked in music research in Nigeria and Africa EduRankEduRank.

2. University of Lagos (UNILAG)

UNILAG ranks second in Nigeria for music department research Wikipedia+15EduRank+15Babcock University+15. With strong faculty and famous alumni like rapper Vector and artist Mo’Cheddah Wikipedia+1Mountain Top University+1, its music curriculum  is well-rounded and impactful.

3. University of Ibadan (UI)

UI is one of Nigeria’s oldest institutions, offering accredited music department degrees and being recognized for academic excellence Top Universities+11PositiveNaija+11University Of Nigeria Nsukka+11. Its arts and music programs enjoy strong infrastructure and faculty support.

4. Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK)

UNIZIK is acclaimed for postgraduate music department programs in Ethnomusicology, theory, composition, and pedagogy Top Universities+14Faculty of Arts+14Humanities University of Port Harcourt+14. If you’re aiming for postgraduate and research-based paths, this is a top pick.

5. University of Port Harcourt (UniPort)

UniPort’s music department is widely regarded as a centre of excellence Humanities University of Port Harcourt, emphasizing performance, research, and community engagement. It balances academic depth with practical experience.

6. Babcock University

Babcock offers a practical Bachelor of Arts in Music, covering theory, production, management, and technology Mountain Top UniversityBabcock University. Ideal for students seeking a modern music education.

7. Bowen University

Emerging in music education, Bowen appears in JAMB’s approved music programmes list. Accredited and growing, this private university shows promise University Compass.

8. Lagos State University (LASU)

LASU has a verified music program with experienced faculty and benefits from its prime Lagos location—perfect for building industry connections University CompassPositiveNaija.

9. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)

OAU offers robust cultural and music  department courses as part of its arts faculty. Well-funded and research-active, it remains a top choice for arts and music students PositiveNaija.

10. Covenant University

Covenant’s music department impact is evidenced by its notable alumni—including singers Chike and Simi, and producers like Spellz and Ric Hassani Wikipedia. Though academic program details are less documented, its creative community is strong.

Honorable Mentions & Specialist Schools

International College of Creative Arts (ICCA)

A fully accredited creative arts college offering specialized music production and performance programs Mountain Top University+1Babcock University+1.

Muson School of Music

A premier classical conservatoire in Lagos, offering diplomas recognized by ABRSM Wikipedia+1TenStrings+1.

Choosing the Right Music University

1. Curriculum Fit: Want classical, contemporary, performance, or research? Choose accordingly.

2. Facilities: Do they have studios, ensembles, performance halls?

3. Industry Connections: Universities in Lagos offer more networking and internships.

4. Cost & Scholarships: Private schools like Bowen may offer perks but cost more.

5. Accreditation: Always confirm via NUC or JAMB approved program lists University Of Nigeria NsukkaUniversity CompassPositiveNaija.

Conclusion

Nigeria’s higher education landscape is brimming with excellent options for aspiring musicians. From UNN’s academic tradition to Covenant’s industry-linked alumni, each institution offers unique strengths. Assess your goals—whether it’s performance, production, or scholarly research—and align with the university that fits best. Your musical journey starts here — and these top 10 choices give it the rhythm it deserves.

FAQs

1. Do I need music theory knowledge before applying?
Yes, foundational theory helps, especially for UNN, UI, and UNILAG. Auditions or portfolio submission may be required.

2. Can I study music production instead of performance?
Absolutely—schools like Babcock and ICCA provide production and technology-focused diplomas.

3. How strong are postgraduate music options in Nigeria?
UNIZIK and UniPort offer MSc/PhD tracks in areas like ethnomusicology and pedagogy University Compass.

4. Do private universities like Bowen offer NUC scholarships?
Some may offer internal scholarships—consult bursary offices directly.

5. Should I consider overseas programs?
Yes—if you aim for global exposure, complement your Nigerian degree with short-term UK/US programs or exchange partnerships.