Best Universities for Part-Time Studies in Nigeria and Their Fees

You already have a plan — a job to keep, a business to run, or a family to support. But a university degree is still calling your name. The good news is that earning a fully recognized degree while managing your responsibilities is entirely possible in Nigeria today. The real question is: which institutions give you the best experience, the most structure, and the clearest value for your money?

This article covers the best universities for part-time studies in Nigeria and their fees in detail — from the most prestigious federal options to the most flexible open university alternatives. Whether you are a fresh candidate exploring your first degree or a professional looking to upgrade your qualifications, you will find everything you need right here to make a confident decision.

What Makes a University the Best Choice for Part-Time Studies?

 

Before diving into the list, it is important to understand what separates a good part-time university experience from a poor one. When evaluating the best universities for part-time studies in Nigeria and their fees, four factors matter most.

The first is NUC accreditation — your school and your specific course must hold current approval from the National Universities Commission. Without this, your degree carries no legal weight for NYSC, employment, or postgraduate admission. The second is schedule flexibility — the best schools design their timetables around working adults, with classes on weekends, evenings, or through distance learning platforms. The third is academic quality — the part-time programme must follow the same curriculum and academic standards as the full-time equivalent. The fourth is transparent fees — the best universities publish clear fee schedules and process all payments through official portals without hidden charges.

With those standards in mind, here are the top institutions that meet all four criteria.

1. University of Lagos (UNILAG) — Distance Learning Institute (DLI) and ICE

 

When Nigerians think about the best universities for part-time studies in Nigeria and their fees, UNILAG almost always comes up first — and for good reason. The University of Lagos runs two distinct part-time structures: the Distance Learning Institute (DLI), which offers over 38 programmes in Management Sciences, Social Sciences, Arts, Education, and Sciences, and the Institute of Continuing Education (ICE), which coordinates evening and sandwich programmes in Arts, Education, and select Social Sciences.

Classes at UNILAG DLI hold on Saturdays, making it ideal for Monday-to-Friday workers in Lagos. The DLI combines online learning with face-to-face tutorials, ensuring students receive a structured, campus-quality experience without being present five days a week. The ICE Sandwich programme runs during long vacation periods, which suits teachers and education professionals particularly well.

Courses available include: Accounting, Business Administration, Mass Communication, Computer Science, Economics, Law, Public Administration, Political Science, Sociology, and more.

UNILAG Part-Time Fees (2025/2026 Estimates): Fresh students pay between ₦150,000 and ₦250,000 per session, depending on the faculty. Returning students pay between ₦100,000 and ₦180,000. The acceptance fee for new DLI students is approximately ₦50,000 (non-refundable). Science and technology-based courses attract higher fees due to laboratory requirements.

UNILAG consistently ranks among the top universities in Africa, and its part-time degree carries the same institutional prestige as its full-time equivalent. For professionals based in Lagos, it remains the gold standard among the best universities for part-time studies in Nigeria and their fees.

2. University of Abuja (UNIABUJA) — Centre for Distance Learning and Continuing Education

 

UNIABUJA is one of the most affordable and well-organized federal university options on the best universities for part-time studies in Nigeria and their fees list. Its Centre for Distance Learning and Continuing Education (CDL&CE) runs undergraduate and postgraduate part-time programmes for working professionals in Abuja, the FCT, and surrounding states.

The CDL&CE operates on a semester system with weekend and evening classes. It is particularly popular among civil servants in the federal capital, many of whom use the programme to earn degrees that qualify them for promotions and higher grade levels.

UNIABUJA Part-Time Fees (2025/2026 Estimates): Fresh undergraduate students pay between ₦100,000 and ₦110,000 per session (excluding acceptance fee). Returning students pay between ₦70,000 and ₦100,000. The acceptance fee for fresh part-time students is ₦40,000 (non-refundable). For postgraduate part-time students, M.Sc fees run between ₦99,500 and ₦114,000 per semester, while Ph.D fees range from ₦119,500 to ₦129,500 per semester. All fees are paid through the official UNIABUJA portal at uniabuja.edu.ng. Installment payment — half per semester — is available upon request through the bursary office.

UNIABUJA’s fees are among the most competitive for a federal university, making it a top choice for budget-conscious professionals who still want a federally accredited degree.

3. Lagos State University (LASU) — School of Part-Time Studies

 

LASU’s School of Part-Time Studies (SPTS) is one of the largest and most active state university part-time programs in Nigeria. It consistently appears among the best universities for part-time studies in Nigeria and their fees due to its structured weekend schedule, broad course range, and relatively accessible tuition.

LASU’s part-time school runs classes on weekends and currently admits candidates for the 2025/2026 academic session. Available programmes include Accounting, Banking and Finance, Business Administration, Computer Science, Economics, English Language, History and International Studies, Mass Communication, Marketing, Music, Peace Studies, Political Science, Public Administration, Psychology, Sociology, and Yoruba Communication Arts — a total of 17 programmes.

The application fee is ₦10,000 (non-refundable), payable at lasu.edu.ng/epayment. Fresh students pay between ₦150,000 and ₦250,000 per session depending on the course. Returning students benefit from reduced rates. As a state university with one of Lagos’s most diverse part-time curricula, LASU offers excellent value — particularly for Lagos State indigenes who may attract slight fee advantages.

4. Ekiti State University (EKSU) — Directorate of Part-Time and Pre-Degree Programmes

 

EKSU stands out on the best universities for part-time studies in Nigeria and their fees list for offering one of the most flexible scheduling systems in Nigerian higher education. The Directorate of Part-Time and Pre-Degree Programmes runs both a weekday programme (Monday to Thursday) for younger students who need daytime flexibility, and a weekend programme (Friday to Sunday) designed specifically for working executives, middle-level managers, and civil servants.

The Directorate covers all undergraduate programmes available in EKSU’s full-time academic structure, meaning students access the same curriculum, lecturers, and academic standards. The programme unit is based at EKSU’s Ifaki Campus with liaison offices spread across the Southwest, making it accessible to students from Ekiti, Ondo, Osun, and neighboring states.

EKSU Part-Time Fees (2025/2026 Estimates): Fresh students pay between ₦80,000 and ₦130,000 per session. Returning students pay between ₦60,000 and ₦100,000. The acceptance fee ranges from approximately ₦25,000 to ₦40,000. These rates make EKSU one of the most cost-effective options in the Southwest for working adults seeking a degree.

5. National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN)

 

NOUN deserves its own prominent place on every best universities for part-time studies in Nigeria and their fees discussion. As Nigeria’s only fully accredited open and distance learning federal university, NOUN removes virtually every traditional barrier to higher education — no JAMB UTME required, no fixed class schedule, no campus attendance obligation.

NOUN operates over 72 study and resource centres nationwide, covering every state in Nigeria. Students study through printed and digital course materials, submit assignments online or at study centres, and sit for examinations at their nearest centre. This model works particularly well for people in remote locations, shift workers, mothers, and anyone whose daily schedule makes fixed classroom attendance impossible.

Programmes span Management Sciences, Social Sciences, Arts and Humanities, Education, Law, Science and Technology, and more. The undergraduate minimum duration is 4 years and maximum is 8 years, giving students exceptional flexibility to manage their pace.

NOUN Fees (2025/2026 Estimates): NOUN is the most affordable option on this list. Undergraduate course fees range from ₦40,000 to ₦80,000 per semester, depending on the course and level. Annual costs typically range between ₦80,000 and ₦160,000 for most programmes — significantly lower than conventional university part-time options. There are no accommodation pressures, no transport costs to a central campus, and no acceptance fee on the scale of conventional universities.

For Nigerians seeking maximum flexibility at minimum cost, NOUN is unmatched on the best universities for part-time studies in Nigeria and their fees scale.

6. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) — Distance Learning Centre

 

OAU’s Distance Learning Centre in Ile-Ife is one of the most reputable part-time and distance learning options in the Southwest. OAU’s academic reputation — consistently ranking among Nigeria’s and Africa’s top universities — extends to its distance learning arm, giving graduates a highly valued credential.

The Centre offers programmes primarily in Social Sciences, Management, and Arts. Classes and assessments combine online delivery with periodic on-campus contact sessions. For professionals in Osun, Oyo, Ogun, and neighboring states, OAU’s distance learning centre represents a prestigious and accessible option.

OAU Distance Learning Fees (2025/2026 Estimates): Tuition runs between ₦100,000 and ₦180,000 per session for most undergraduate programmes. Science-related courses may attract higher fees. The application fee is separate and ranges from ₦5,000 to ₦15,000.

7. University of Benin (UNIBEN) — Continuing Education Centre

 

UNIBEN’s Continuing Education Centre operates part-time programmes in Benin City, serving a large population of working professionals in Edo State, Delta State, and the broader South-South region. UNIBEN appears on every credible best universities for part-time studies in Nigeria and their fees list due to its strong academic pedigree and organized part-time delivery system.

Available programmes span Management, Social Sciences, Arts, and select Sciences. Weekend and evening classes accommodate the busy schedules of its working-class student population.

UNIBEN Part-Time Fees (2025/2026 Estimates): Fresh students pay between ₦100,000 and ₦150,000 per session. Returning students pay between ₦60,000 and ₦100,000. The acceptance fee for fresh students is approximately ₦30,000 to ₦40,000.

8. Rivers State University (RSU) — Evening and Part-Time Programmes

 

RSU Port Harcourt serves one of Nigeria’s most economically active regions — the Niger Delta oil and gas belt. Its part-time programmes attract a large base of workers from the energy sector, maritime industry, civil service, and private businesses who need academic credentials to advance their careers.

RSU Part-Time Fees (2025/2026 Estimates): Fresh students typically pay between ₦90,000 and ₦150,000 per session. Returning students pay between ₦70,000 and ₦120,000. Science and Engineering-related courses attract higher fees due to laboratory requirements.

Fee Comparison at a Glance

 

Here is a quick summary of fresh student part-time fees across the top institutions, so you can compare your options before applying.

UNILAG (DLI/ICE) — ₦150,000 to ₦250,000 per session. UNIABUJA (CDL&CE) — ₦100,000 to ₦110,000 per session (plus ₦40,000 acceptance fee). LASU (SPTS) — ₦150,000 to ₦250,000 per session. EKSU (Directorate) — ₦80,000 to ₦130,000 per session. OAU (Distance Learning) — ₦100,000 to ₦180,000 per session. UNIBEN (Continuing Education) — ₦100,000 to ₦150,000 per session. RSU (Part-Time) — ₦90,000 to ₦150,000 per session. NOUN — ₦80,000 to ₦160,000 per year (most affordable option).

Tips for Choosing the Right School for Your Part-Time Degree

 

Finding your place on the best universities for part-time studies in Nigeria and their fees list requires more than just picking a big name. Here is what to genuinely consider before submitting your application.

• Proximity and logistics: A school in Lagos means nothing if you live in Enugu and cannot afford the transport and accommodation costs of weekly trips. Choose a school close to your location or one that offers full distance learning.
• Course availability: Not every university on this list offers every course on a part-time basis. Confirm that your specific course is NUC-accredited and currently running before applying.
• Schedule compatibility: UNILAG DLI holds classes on Saturdays. EKSU offers both weekday and weekend options. NOUN requires no fixed class attendance at all. Match the schedule to your work reality.
• Total cost — not just tuition: Add up acceptance fees, registration levies, examination fees, study materials, and transport to get your true annual cost. NOUN wins on total cost for most students.
• Career goals and prestige: If your employer or industry values institutional brand names, UNILAG and OAU carry stronger recognition. For most public service and general employment purposes, any NUC-accredited degree performs equally.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

 

Q1: Which university is the overall best for part-time studies in Nigeria?

It depends on your priorities. For prestige and structure, UNILAG DLI leads the pack. For affordability and flexibility, NOUN is unmatched. For working professionals in Abuja, UNIABUJA offers the best combination of cost and federal accreditation.

Q2: Are part-time degrees from these universities recognized for NYSC?

Yes. Graduates of NUC-accredited part-time programmes at these institutions are eligible for NYSC mobilization if they are 30 years old or below at graduation. Confirm current age policy directly with NYSC as it is periodically reviewed.

Q3: Is NOUN cheaper than conventional part-time universities?

Yes, significantly. NOUN’s annual cost of ₦80,000 to ₦160,000 is notably lower than UNILAG or LASU part-time fees. Additionally, NOUN students save on transport, accommodation, and daily commuting costs.

Q4: Can I switch from a part-time programme to a full-time programme?

Inter-mode transfers are rare and subject to university policy and NUC guidelines. Most schools do not offer straightforward switches. If a full-time programme is your goal, apply for it directly through JAMB.

Q5: Do part-time students have access to university hostels?

At most universities, hostel allocation prioritizes full-time students. Part-time students at UNILAG, UNIABUJA, and LASU generally source private accommodation, especially since their classes hold only on weekends. NOUN students never need campus accommodation.

Q6: How do I pay part-time school fees safely?

Always pay through the university’s official online portal using Remita, MasterCard, or approved bank channels. Never pay through agents, individuals, or unofficial collection points. Verify your payment immediately on the portal and print your receipt.

Q7: What is the cheapest federal university for part-time studies in Nigeria?

UNIABUJA (CDL&CE) is consistently the most affordable federally accredited option among conventional universities, with fresh student fees between ₦100,000 and ₦110,000 per session. NOUN is even cheaper at ₦80,000 to ₦160,000 annually.

Q8: Can I apply for NELFUND student loan as a part-time student?

Yes. The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) covers eligible students at accredited institutions, including part-time programme students. Visit nelfund.gov.ng for eligibility requirements and application details.

Final Thoughts

 

The best universities for part-time studies in Nigeria and their fees are not a mystery — they are clearly documented, NUC-accredited, and actively enrolling students for the 2025/2026 academic session. UNILAG, UNIABUJA, LASU, EKSU, OAU, UNIBEN, RSU, and NOUN all represent legitimate, high-quality pathways to earning a degree on your own schedule.

What separates the students who graduate from those who never start is simply the decision to begin. Study the best universities for part-time studies in Nigeria and their fees, match the right school to your location and budget, confirm accreditation on nuc.edu.ng, and take that first step. Your degree is not as far away as it feels right now.