University of Ibadan – All you need to know about UI History, Admission Requirements, VCs and Courses

The University of Ibadan (UI), fondly referred to as “UI,” is Nigeria’s oldest and most prestigious degree-awarding institution. Established in 1948, UI has grown from a modest college to a globally recognized academic powerhouse, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s political, economic, cultural, and industrial development. Located in Ibadan, Oyo State Capital, the university boasts a rich history, a diverse range of programs, and a legacy of producing notable alumni, including Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka and other influential figures. With an enrollment of approximately 33,000 students, UI remains a beacon of academic excellence in Africa. This article covers all you need to know about University of Ibadan history, Admission requirements and process, courses, Vice chancellors and others.

History of the University of Ibadan

The origins of the University of Ibadan trace back to Yaba College, established in 1932 in Lagos as Nigeria’s first tertiary institution. Due to the limited scope of Yaba College and the growing demand for quality education, University College Ibadan was founded in 1948 as an affiliate of the University of London. The institution was inaugurated on 18th January, 1948, by Kenneth Mellanby, its first principal, with the permanent site’s foundation laid on November 17, 1948, now celebrated as Founders’ Day.

Following Nigeria’s independence in 1960, University of Ibadan became a fully independent university in 1962, severing ties with the University of London.

In 1963, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Nigeria’s first Prime Minister, was appointed as the university’s first Chancellor. The university’s early infrastructure, designed by modernist architects Maxwell Fry and Jane Drew, reflects its commitment to creating a conducive environment for learning and research. Today, UI is recognized as Nigeria’s premier university, consistently ranking among the top in Africa.

Motto of the University of Ibadan

The University of Ibadan’s motto is “Recte Sapere Fons,” a Latin phrase meaning “Right Thinking, the Fountain of Knowledge.” This motto encapsulates UI’s mission to foster critical thinking, intellectual rigor, and the pursuit of knowledge to address societal challenges. It reflects the university’s commitment to producing graduates who are not only academically sound but also innovative and socially responsible.

UI Mode of Admission

Admission to the University of Ibadan is highly competitive, with a selective process based on entrance examinations and academic records. Below are the primary modes of Admission for undergraduate and postgraduate programs

UI Undergraduate Admission

The following are admission requirements for UI undergraduate courses:

• UTME (Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination): Candidates must score at least 200 in the JAMB UTME and select UI as their first-choice institution. They are required to sit for the UI Post-UTME exam, with a minimum score of 200 to be considered for admission.
• O’Level Requirements: Applicants must have at least five credit passes in relevant subjects, including English Language and Mathematics, at one sitting (or six credits at two sittings).
• Direct Entry: Candidates with NCE, ND, HND, BSc, JUPEB, or IJMB certificates can apply for direct entry into 200-level programs, provided they meet departmental requirements.

UI Postgraduate Admission

The following are admission requirements for UI Post Graduate courses:

• Candidates must hold a first degree from UI or another recognized institution with at least a Second Class Upper Division for master’s programs.
• Applicants for M.Phil. or Ph.D. programs may need a recognized research-based higher degree.
• A proficiency test in English (minimum 40% score) is required for non-English-speaking applicants.
• Three electronic letters of recommendation and official transcripts are mandatory for postgraduate applications.

Are You A UI Aspirant? Download MyQuest App for UI Post UTME Practice

Prospective students can apply through the UI Admission Portal or the Postgraduate College portal UI Post Graduate Portal. The admission process for the 2024/2025 session begins in July 2024.

UI Notable Vice-Chancellors

The University of Ibadan has been led by distinguished academics who have shaped its growth. Some notable vice-chancellors include:

• Kenneth Dike (1960–1967): The first Nigerian Vice-Chancellor and a prominent historian, after whom the university’s central library is named.
• Grace Alele-Williams  (1985–1991): The first female Vice-Chancellor in Nigeria, known for her contributions to education and leadership at the University of Benin.
• Ladipo Ayodeji Banjo (1984–1991): A renowned scholar who served during a transformative period for UI.
• Abel Idowu Olayinka (2015–2020): Oversaw significant advancements in research and global rankings.
• Kayode Adebowale (2021–present): The current Vice-Chancellor, focusing on innovation and international partnerships.

These leaders have upheld UI’s commitment to academic excellence and global recognition.

UI Courses and Programs

The University of Ibadan offers a wide array of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across 13 faculties, including Arts, Science, Basic Medical Sciences, Clinical Sciences, Agriculture and Forestry, Social Sciences, Education, Veterinary Medicine, Pharmacy, Technology, , Public Health, and Dentistry. The College of Medicine is particularly renowned for training medical professionals.

UI Undergraduate Courses

Some popular undergraduate programs in UI include:

• Faculty of Arts: History, English, Linguistics, Philosophy, Theatre Arts.
• Faculty of Science: Computer Science, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics.
• Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry: Agronomy, Animal Science, Forestry.
• Faculty of Education: Adult Education, Guidance and Counselling, Library Studies.
• College of Medicine: Medicine and Surgery, Nursing, Physiotherapy.

UI Postgraduate Courses

UI produces around 3,000 master’s and 250 Ph.D. graduates annually. Popular postgraduate programs include:

• M.A. in History, Literature, and Anthropology.
• M.Sc. in Computer Science, Public Health, and Agronomy.
• M.Phil. and Ph.D. in various disciplines.

The university also hosts the Pan African University Life & Earth Sciences Institute, fostering regional academic collaboration. For a complete list of courses, visit the UI official Website via https://ui.edu.ng.

UI Campus Facilities and Infrastructure

UI’s sprawling campus in Ibadan is known for its tropical modernist architecture and state-of-the-art facilities. Key highlights include:

• Kenneth Dike Library (KDL): Named after the first Nigerian Vice-Chancellor, it houses over 700,000 volumes and 1,250 seats for readers, serving students, staff, and alumni.
• University College Hospital (UCH): A 500-bed teaching hospital established in 1957, it is a leading center for medical training and research.
• Research and Innovation Hub: The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research, Innovation, and Strategic Partnerships) oversees collaborations with global institutions like Oxford University and the University of Chicago.
• The university also offers student counseling, accommodation, and sports facilities, ensuring a holistic academic experience.

UI Notable Alumni

UI’s extensive alumni network includes influential figures who have shaped Nigeria and the world, they include but not limited to:

• Prof. Wole Soyinka: Nobel Laureate in Literature.
• Chinua Achebe: Renowned novelist and author of Things Fall Apart.
• Emeka Anyaoku: Former Commonwealth Secretary-General.
• Kayode Fayemi: Former Governor of Ekiti State.
• Funmi Olopade: Global Health Director at the University of Chicago.

These alumni underscore UI’s impact on global scholarship and leadership.

UI Recent Developments and Achievements

In recent years, UI has solidified its position as a leading African university including:

• In 2016, UI became the first Nigerian university to rank in the top 1,000 of the Times Higher Education World University Rankings.
• In 2017, UI was ranked Nigeria’s best university by the National Universities Commission (NUC).
• In 2025, UI continues to expand its postgraduate programs, with 50% of its enrollment in master’s and Ph.D. programs.
• The university has secured grants from institutions like the MacArthur Foundation and maintains partnerships with global universities.

Why Choose the University of Ibadan?

The University of Ibadan stands out for its academic rigor, diverse programs, and commitment to research and societal impact. Its affordable tuition, as a Federal government-owned institution, makes it accessible compared to private universities. With a legacy of producing world-class graduates and a campus designed for learning, UI remains the top choice for students seeking quality education in Nigeria.

Conclusion

The University of Ibadan is more than just an academic institution; it is a legacy of excellence, innovation, and leadership. From its humble beginnings in 1948 to its status as Nigeria’s premier university, UI continues to shape the future through education and research. Whether you’re a prospective student, researcher, or academic enthusiast, UI offers unparalleled opportunities to achieve your goals. Visit UI Portal for more information on admissions, courses, and campus life of University of Ibadan.