A five-year programme covering Islamic law, Sharia jurisprudence and legal practice.
What this course covers
Sharia Law is a 5-year law programme offered by Nigerian universities under the National Universities Commission framework. The programme covers Nigerian law, common law foundations, legal writing and moot court practice, with a balance of theoretical foundations and applied practice. Graduates leave with a recognised undergraduate degree that opens up entry-level roles in industry, research and the public sector, as well as the foundation for postgraduate study.
Why study Sharia Law?
Sharia Law suits candidates who want to work with rules, advocacy and the structure of justice. The programme aligns with the wider Nigerian sector demand profile in its field and offers practical career routes through both private sector employers and government institutions. It is well-suited to candidates planning to combine the undergraduate degree with later professional certification or a master's programme.
UTME subjects
- English Language
- Literature in English
- Arabic or Islamic Studies
- Government
O'level subjects
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Literature in English
- Islamic Studies
- Government
Five credit passes at one sitting (or two acceptable sittings) are typically required.
Typical career pathways
Typical career destinations for Sharia Law graduates include law firms, in-house counsel, public service, the judiciary and NGOs. Some graduates move into postgraduate research, while others pivot to adjacent fields such as project management, consultancy and entrepreneurship. The professional and regulatory bodies tied to the field provide structured certification routes that lift earnings and open senior roles within a few years of practice.
Honest challenges to expect
Like any undergraduate programme, Sharia Law has challenges. The workload is significant in the middle years, with practical and project requirements alongside theoretical coursework. Candidates should plan for time-intensive practicals or industrial training and budget realistically for textbooks, lab fees and the typical Nigerian student living costs.
Career outlook
Earnings vary widely by employer, sector and individual performance. These bands reflect typical 2026 ranges across the public and private sectors.
Find out if Sharia Law suits you
Take our free 8-minute career quiz to see whether Sharia Law matches your interests, JAMB readiness and preferences - plus four other realistic options for you.
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Frequently asked questions
What is Sharia Law?
Sharia Law is a 5-year law programme offered by Nigerian universities under the National Universities Commission framework. The programme covers Nigerian law, common law foundations, legal writing and moot court practice, with a balance of theoretical foundations and applied practice. Graduates leave with a recognised undergraduate degree that opens up entry-level roles in industry, research and the public sector, as well as the foundation for postgraduate study.
How long does Sharia Law take?
Sharia Law typically runs for 5 years in Nigerian universities, with a final-year project or thesis and (for engineering programmes) industrial training.
What JAMB subjects do I need for Sharia Law?
Sharia Law requires the UTME subject combination English Language, Literature in English, Arabic or Islamic Studies, Government. Confirm with the JAMB brochure each cycle.
Which Nigerian universities offer Sharia Law?
We are still building the institution list for Sharia Law. Use the JAMB brochure or the NUC course-finder to confirm where the programme is currently accredited.
What career options does Sharia Law open up?
Law graduates attend the Nigerian Law School for one year after the LLB and are called to the Bar by the Body of Benchers before practice. The professional body relevant to this programme is NBA / Council of Legal Education. Career progression typically comes from a combination of experience, postgraduate study and professional certifications.