A Comprehensive Guide To The National Open University Of Nigeria (NOUN).
If you’re considering enrolling at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) and has been searching courses offered in open university,nigeria open university courses, noun 2025 or simply curious about how it operates, you’re in the right place. In this post, I’ll share key things to keep in mind before starting your academic journey at Nigeria Open University 2025 (NOUN).
The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) has become a popular option for students who need a flexible learning schedule, especially for those balancing work and education.
The History Of National Open University 2025 (NOUN)
The National Open University of Nigeria was initially established in 1983 but suspended shortly after. It was revived in 2001 by President Olusegun Obasanjo, who later became one of its first students. He earned a degree, pursued a master’s, and eventually completed a PhD through NOUN.
Open learning isn’t unique to Nigeria. Countries like South Africa, the UK, Canada, and Australia all have their own versions of open universities. Even traditional universities are now adopting distance and e-learning models, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic.
NOUN is fully accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC). This means that the certificates you get from NOUN are just as valid as those from any federal university in Nigeria. You can use them for master’s programs, job applications, and more.
Here Are Some Key Things To Consider Before Applying To National Open University 2025 :
- NOUN is a Full-Time University, Not Part-Time
Contrary to popular belief, NOUN is a full-time institution, not a part-time school. The misconception comes from the fact that lectures are typically held on weekends to accommodate working students. However, exams take place on weekdays, just like in traditional universities.
- Interaction with Lecturers is Minimal
At NOUN, students rarely interact with lecturers. The university operates through an online learning system, and tutorial centers are available to help guide students. Direct contact with lecturers typically happens only when you’re assigned a project supervisor, and even then, communication is often through email.
- Attending Lectures is Optional
Unlike conventional universities, attending lectures at NOUN is not mandatory. There are no attendance requirements that contribute to your grades. The tutorial sessions are designed to help students with challenging topics, but participation is entirely up to you.
- Study Materials Are Mostly Online
If you’re expecting to receive all your course materials in hard copy, you’ll be disappointed. NOUN provides most study materials online, and students can access them via the university portal. You may get a few printed textbooks, but it’s best to download and print additional materials if you prefer studying offline.
- Work and Study Flexibility
One of the biggest advantages of NOUN is the flexibility to work while studying. Many students at NOUN hold full-time jobs or run businesses. The school’s structure allows you to balance education with other responsibilities.
- Direct Entry Requirements
If you’re applying for direct entry, you must have an upper credit from your previous qualification. Lower credits or passes typically mean you’ll need to start from 100 level instead of being admitted to 200 or 300 level.
- All Processes are Online
From admission application to course registration and payment, everything at NOUN is done online. You won’t need to visit a physical campus for administrative tasks, so be cautious of scammers claiming otherwise.
One of the biggest advantages is that you can work full-time while studying. I’m an entrepreneur, and my workload is hectic. Yet, I could still pursue my education at NOUN without disrupting my business.
8. No Need to Attend Classes
NOUN’s model doesn’t require students to attend physical lectures. You complete Tutor-Marked Assessments (TMA) online and don’t need to sit in crowded lecture halls.
9. Is NOUN Certificate Recognized Internationally?
Yes, it is! NOUN is a federal institution, not a private one, and its certificate is recognized both locally and internationally. So, rest assured that the certificate is valid for further studies or job applications anywhere in the world.
National Open University 2025 Exams Are Structured Into Two Types:
- Computer-Based Exams (CBE) for lower-level students
2. Pen-on-Paper Exams for higher-level and postgraduate students
Certain courses that require hands-on experience might not be well-suited for NOUN’s model. While the university is working on improving this, practical exposure in fields like science and engineering remains a challenge.
Is NOUN Right for You?
If you’re considering NOUN, here are a few questions to ask yourself:
Are you self-motivated?
Do you need flexibility to study while working?
Are you okay with independent learning?
What Makes National Open University 2025 Unique
NOUN operates on an open and distance learning model, meaning you don’t need to attend regular classes. It allows students to study at their own pace, using study centers scattered across Nigeria for exams, materials, and support.
Unlike traditional universities, you have the flexibility to work full-time while studying. This system is particularly appealing to individuals like me, who juggle multiple responsibilities.
Benefits of Studying At National Open University 2025
- Accredited Institution
NOUN is fully accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC). Your certificate is valid and can be used to apply for jobs, postgraduate programs, or other opportunities. It holds the same weight as degrees from traditional universities.
- Flexible Learning Schedule
NOUN’s biggest advantage is flexibility. You can work full-time and still pursue a degree without the pressure of attending daily classes. This was a game-changer for me as an entrepreneur with a busy schedule.
- No Disruption from Strikes
Unlike many traditional Nigerian universities, NOUN isn’t affected by ASUU strikes. You can plan your graduation date without worrying about unexpected delays, which is a major issue in the Nigerian educational system.
- Standardized Learning Materials
At Nigeria Open University, you pay for your learning materials upfront. The exam questions are based on these materials, eliminating the need for buying handouts from lecturers — a common issue in traditional universities.
- Supportive Community (My Personal Experience)
Most of the people I interacted with at my study center were helpful and friendly. While this may vary across centers, I appreciated the assistance I received from both staff and fellow students.
Challenges At The National Open University 2025
While NOUN has many advantages, there are a few downsides that you should consider:
- Little or No Classes
For someone like me, not attending classes was a big advantage. But for others, especially those pursuing their first degree, this might be a huge disadvantage. There’s limited interaction with lecturers, and most of the learning is self-directed.
- Erratic Timetables
Sometimes, exam schedules and assessments (TMAs) can change unexpectedly. This can be frustrating, especially when you’re trying to balance school with other commitments.
- Lack of Communication via Email
NOUN doesn’t communicate with students via email as frequently as it should. In other distance learning systems I’ve tried outside Nigeria, email notifications keep students informed of their progress and tasks. I think NOUN should adopt this practice to improve student engagement.
- Dependence on Study Centers
Certain processes, like exam registration and ID card printing, still require approval from study centers. While these can be done online in theory, they often involve in-person visits for final approvals.
