Last updated on October 24th, 2024 at 12:58 pm

The Higher National Diploma (HND) is a specialized certification offered by polytechnics and some technical institutions in Nigeria. It is typically pursued by students who have completed a National Diploma (ND) and have undergone at least one year of industrial attachment (internship). HND programs are designed to provide students with advanced technical and practical knowledge in their chosen fields, making them highly skilled professionals.

In this guide, we will explore everything you need to know about HND in Nigeria, including what it is, how to register, the cost of schooling, course combinations, and institutions offering HND programs.

What is HND (Higher National Diploma)?

The Higher National Diploma (HND) is a two-year academic program offered by polytechnics and some technical institutions in Nigeria. It is considered a step above the National Diploma (ND) and is recognized as a mid-level qualification for students pursuing careers in various fields, particularly in technical and vocational areas.

While the National Diploma (ND) provides foundational knowledge, the HND program offers more in-depth and practical knowledge in specialized disciplines such as Engineering, Business, Arts, Sciences, and Technology.

Graduates with an HND can either join the workforce directly or pursue Direct Entry admission into Nigerian universities to obtain a Bachelor’s Degree.

Eligibility and Requirements for HND

To be eligible for an HND program in Nigeria, candidates must meet certain academic and work experience requirements. Below are the general criteria:

1. National Diploma (ND)

Applicants must have successfully completed a National Diploma (ND) program in a relevant field from an accredited polytechnic or institution.

2. Industrial Training (IT)

Candidates must complete at least one year of industrial attachment (IT), which provides hands-on experience in their field of study. The IT serves as a bridge between the ND and HND programs, equipping students with practical skills required in the industry.

3. O’Level Requirement

Applicants must have a minimum of five O’Level credits, including English Language and Mathematics, in relevant subjects. The credits should be from WAEC, NECO, GCE or NABTEB exams, obtained in no more than two sittings.

4. JAMB Direct Entry

Most polytechnics and technical institutions require applicants to apply through the JAMB Direct Entry process, as HND is a higher-level program. Candidates may need to submit their ND transcripts and JAMB results.

5. Relevant Work Experience

Though not mandatory in all institutions, some polytechnics may require candidates to have additional work experience beyond the compulsory one-year IT.

How to Register for HND

The registration process for HND programs varies slightly across different polytechnics, but the general procedure is similar. Here’s a guide on how to register for an HND program in Nigeria:

1. Choose an Accredited Polytechnic

First, select an accredited polytechnic or technical institution that offers the HND program in your desired course of study. It’s important to choose an institution recognized by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) to ensure the validity of your certificate.

2. Obtain the HND Admission Form

Most institutions release their HND admission forms online or at their admission offices. You can visit the website of the polytechnic you’re interested in or physically visit the institution to obtain the form. The cost of the form varies but typically ranges from ₦5,000 to ₦10,000.

3. Submit Your Documents

During registration, you’ll be required to submit the following documents:

• National Diploma (ND) result
• O’Level result (WAEC, NECO, GCE or NABTEB
• Industrial Training (IT) completion letter
• JAMB Direct Entry registration slip

Ensure that all your documents are properly filled out and submitted before the deadline for registration.

4. Pay Registration Fees

You’ll need to pay for the admission form as well as other related registration fees. This can usually be done online through the institution’s portal or at the bank.

5. Prepare for Screening/Interview

Most polytechnics will conduct a screening exercise or interview for HND applicants to assess their qualifications and eligibility. Ensure that you meet all the requirements and present yourself professionally.

6. Await Admission List

After the screening or interview, institutions will release an admission list for successful candidates. You can check the list on the institution’s website or notice board.

HND School Fees

The school fees for HND programs in Nigeria vary based on the institution and whether it’s a federal, state, or private polytechnic. Typically, HND tuition fees are higher than ND fees but remain affordable compared to university programs.

Below is an estimate of HND tuition fees in Nigeria:

• Federal Polytechnics: ₦40,000 – ₦60,000 per session
• State Polytechnics: ₦50,000 – ₦90,000 per session
• Private Polytechnics: ₦80,000 – ₦150,000 per session

These fees may also include charges for hostel accommodation, faculty dues, library access, and other miscellaneous costs.

HND Courses and Subject Combinations

HND programs are offered in various fields, with a focus on practical, hands-on learning. The courses are grouped under Science, Technology, Business, Arts, and Engineering disciplines.

Here’s a list of popular HND courses offered in Nigerian polytechnics:

HND Engineering Courses

1. Electrical/Electronic Engineering
2. Civil Engineering
3. Mechanical Engineering
4. Computer Engineering
5. Petroleum Engineering

HND Science Courses

1. Science Laboratory Technology (SLT)
2. Environmental Biology
3. Microbiology
4. Food Technology
5. Computer Science

HND Business Courses

1. Business Administration
2. Marketing
3. Banking and Finance
4. Public Administration
5. Office Technology and Management

HND Arts and Design Courses

1. Fine and Applied Arts
2. Graphic Design
3. Fashion Design
4. Photography

HND courses typically combine classroom lectures with practical workshops, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in their respective fields.

Institutions Offering HND in Nigeria

There are numerous accredited polytechnics and technical institutions across Nigeria offering HND programs. Some of the top institutions include:

• Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH), Lagos
• Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro
• Federal Polytechnic, Bida
• Lagos State Polytechnic (LASPOTECH)
• Auchi Polytechnic, Edo State
• Federal Polytechnic, Oko
• Kano State Polytechnic

These institutions are recognized by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), ensuring the quality and standard of education.

Advantages of HND

The HND qualification offers several advantages, making it a valuable credential for individuals pursuing technical and vocational careers. Some of the key benefits include:

1. Practical Skills: The HND program is heavily focused on hands-on, practical learning, which makes graduates highly employable in their respective fields.
2. Direct Entry to Universities: HND holders can gain Direct Entry admission into 200-level of university degree programs. Many Nigerian universities accept HND for entry into Engineering, Business, Sciences, and Technology programs.
3. Industry-Relevant Curriculum: The HND curriculum is designed to meet industry standards, ensuring that graduates are prepared for the job market upon completion.
4. Job Opportunities: HND graduates are often sought after by employers, especially in industries that require technical and vocational expertise such as manufacturing, engineering, and IT.
5. Affordability: HND programs are typically more affordable than university degree programs, making them accessible to a wider range of students.

Universities Accepting HND for Direct Entry Admission

Several Nigerian universities accept HND holders for Direct Entry admission into 200-level programs. Some of the universities include:

• University of Lagos (UNILAG)
• Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
• Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
• University of Benin (UNIBEN)
• University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
• Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA)
• Lagos State University (LASU)

These universities offer conversion programs that allow HND holders to obtain a Bachelor’s Degree after completing the required coursework.

Challenges of HND in Nigeria

While HND remains a valuable qualification, it is not without challenges. Some of the common challenges faced by HND holders include:

1. Disparity Between HND and B.Sc.: In Nigeria, there has been a long-standing issue of disparity between HND and Bachelor’s degree holders in terms of job placement and career progression. Some organizations favor B.Sc. holders over HND holders, especially in the public sector.
2. Limited Acceptance for Postgraduate Programs: Some universities require HND holders to go through Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) programs before they can be admitted into Master’s Degree programs, unlike their B.Sc. counterparts.
3. Perception of Polytechnics: Many employers still regard polytechnic education as inferior to university education, which can limit the opportunities available to HND holders.

Conclusion

The Higher National Diploma (HND) remains a critical qualification for students seeking advanced technical and vocational education in Nigeria. While it faces some challenges, the program provides practical skills and industry-relevant knowledge, making graduates competitive in the job market. By pursuing HND, students open doors to a wide range of career opportunities, especially in fields such as engineering, technology, business, and the arts.

Before choosing an HND program, ensure you research accredited institutions, their courses, and their entry requirements to make an informed decision.