Universities with Distance Learning Programs in Nigeria 2025/2026

Distance learning means studying from home or anywhere, using the internet or study centres. It helps people who work, live far from school, or need flexible schedules. In Nigeria, many universities offer distance learning, with the biggest being the National Open University (NOUN). This guide shows you:

• What is distance learning and how it works

• List of Nigerian universities offering it in 2025/2026

• How to choose, apply, and succeed

• Pros and cons, FAQs, examples, and comparison tables

What Is Distance Learning and Why It Matters

Keywords: distance learning Nigeria, distance education university

Distance learning, also called Open and Distance Learning (ODL), means attending university without going to campus every day. You learn online or at study centers.

This is important because it:

• Helps people who work or live far from school

• Is flexible, letting you study at your pace

• Reduces cost—you save on campus fees, transport, and rent

NUC Guidelines for Distance Learning Programs

The National Universities Commission (NUC) sets the rules for distance learning in Nigeria:

• Programs must be as good as regular ones

• Only certain courses are allowed (no Medicine, Engineering, Law, Dental, Pharmacy)

• Distance centers must be part of approved universities

• NOUN is the only fully online university; others run part-time or hybrid ODL

Top Nigerian Universities Offering Distance Learning 2025/2026

National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN)

Why it stands out: NOUN is fully distance-based, meaning all its programs are online or via study centers. It offers wide access across Nigeria, including undergraduate and postgraduate courses like Law, Business Administration, Mass Communication, Education, and more.
Distance Learning Centre

UI runs many degrees online or via study centres in fields like Communication, Economics, Psychology, Social Work, and Education. It is well known for academic excellence and offers support to remote learners.

University of Lagos (UNILAG) – Distance Learning Institute

UNILAG offers distance learning in subjects such as Accounting, Business Administration, Education, and Sciences. They combine weekend tutorials with online lessons.

Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) – Centre for Distance Learning

OAU offers distance learning for courses like Accounting, Economics, Nursing, and Education. Their programs mix online content with occasional physical sessions to keep quality high.

Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) – Distance Learning Centre

ABU delivers programs such as Business Administration, Public Administration, and MBA via distance. They use a mix of online and in-person contact.

University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) – Centre for Distance Learning

UNIMAID offers flexible learning for Business Administration, Public Health, Education, and others, especially serving Northern Nigeria.

Modibbo Adama University of Technology (MAUTECH) – Distance Learning Centre

MAUTECH provides tech and business-focused distance learning through online and centre-based methods, serving students nationwide.

University of Abuja – Centre for Distance Learning and Continuing Education

The University of Abuja offers distance learning in areas such as Arts, Education, Management Sciences, and Social Sciences. It blends online study with centre-based support.

Other NUC-Approved Institutions

These also offer distance learning:

• LAUTECH (Ogbomoso)

• UNN (Nsukka)

• FUT Minna

• Babcock University

• University of Ilorin

• ABUAD

• Olabisi Onabanjo University

• Igbinedion University

• Delta State University, Abraka

• Covenant University

• Enugu State University of Science & Tech

• University of Benin

• University of Calabar

• University of Port Harcourt

• Nasarawa State University

• Nile University, Abuja

• Mountain Top University

Miva Open University

Miva, launched in 2023, is the first private fully online university in Nigeria. Programs cover Computer Science, Cyber Security, Data Science, Nursing Science, Public Health, and more.

Umaru Musa Yar’adua University (UMYU)

UMYU was designed to support both regular and distance learning from its start. Students in many disciplines—Education, Management, Humanities—can learn from home or regional centers.

How to Choose the Right Distance Learning University

Consider these steps:

• Accreditation: Check if the program is NUC-approved

• Mode: 100% online (like NOUN or Miva) vs blended (like UNILAG)

• Programs: Does it offer what you want to study?

• Support: Are there study centers or online systems plus good student support?

• Cost & Flexibility: How much and how often do you pay? Are there flexible schedules?

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Find a university offering your course via distance learning

2. Check entry requirements (UTME or direct entry)

3. Register via JAMB (if required)

4. Complete the university’s application form and pay fee

5. Attend orientation or screening (online or center-based)

6. Start learning—online or physical sessions, depending on mode

7. Submit assignments, attend exams, graduate fully

Pros and Cons of Distance Learning in Nigeria

Pros

• Study from home

• Flexible schedule—good for workers or busy students

• Local access—no need to move to a campus

• Usually cheaper than full-time study

• Offers opportunities to earn while learning

Cons

• Some courses not available (like Medicine, Engineering)

• Requires self-discipline and good internet access

• Less face-to-face support than regular classes

• Quality varies by university; choose based on reputation

Comparison Table: Distance Learning vs Full-Time

Examples of Distance Learners in Nigeria

• A working parent studies Business Admin at NOUN, using their home on weekends to complete lectures.

• A remote health worker learns Public Health at UMYU, attending centers when needed.

• A tech professional pursues Computer Science via Miva University entirely online, without travel.

Summary Table of Distance Learning Universities

Top 10+ FAQs About Distance Learning in Nigeria

1. Is distance learning recognized in Nigeria?
   Yes, if the university and program are NUC-approved.

2. Can I do it while working?
   Yes! That’s the main benefit of distance learning.

3. Are all courses available?
   No—Medicine, Engineering, Law, etc., are often not offered via distance.

4. Is NOUN the only fully online university?
   Yes—most others blend online with center-based sessions.

5. Is Miva credible for degrees?
   Yes, it’s NUC-licensed, but it’s new, so review program and support quality.

6. Do distance learners get NYSC?
   Yes, graduates of accredited distance programs can qualify for NYSC if they meet other requirements.

7. How much does it cost?
   Costs vary—check individual university portals, but it’s often more affordable.

8. Are exams online?
   Often yes, but some programs may require physical exams at study centers.

9. Can I get a job with a distance degree?
   Yes, employers recognize distance degrees—especially from universities like NOUN and UI.

10. What if there’s no internet?
    Many programs provide printed materials or support via study centres.

11. Can I switch from distance to full-time?
    Possibly—check with the university if they allow “mode transfer” based on performance.

Conclusion

Distance learning is a great option for students in Nigeria in 2025/2026. It offers a flexible, affordable path to earn a degree from top universities like NOUN, UI, UNILAG, OAU, ABU, UNIMAID, University of Abuja, MAUTECH, and UMYU, and now the private online choice Miva University.

To pick the best option:

• Ensure the program is NUC-accredited

• Choose a schedule that fits your life

• Balance cost, support, and course availability

• Be disciplined and resourceful