Student Interview: Studying Business Management at the University of Nigeria (UNN)

study business management unn

In this session, we sit down with Destiny, a 300-level student, to discuss the reality of pursuing a degree in Business Management, the admission requirements, and what it takes to succeed.

The Basics

Q: What is your name, department, and level?

A: My name is Destiny. I am in the Business Management department, 300 level.

Q: What does it feel like to study Business Management here at the University of Nigeria?

A: You know, in a world where things are changing and everything is becoming more technological, it is nice for a person to have a good foundation of doing business before venturing into it, so as to have a good outcome and productive results.

Q: Why did you decide to study Business Management specifically?

A: Although there are different fields in Business Administration—Accountancy, Marketing, Banking and Finance—the one that leads to the leadership positions in an organization is the management aspect. Every organization has a management board, and this department produces managers to lead. I decided to study it to be a good manager.

The Academic Experience & Challenges

Q: What challenges have you faced from your first year to this moment?

A: The first challenge you face is meeting Accounting. It is not our primary course; it’s a borrowed course. When they teach us, they don’t break it down like they do for the Accountancy department. They just give us the headings. What they study for two sessions, we have to pack into one semester. Doing those exams is a challenge.

Q: Do you think an average Mathematics student can study Business Management?

A: Yes, very well. It depends, because the math we do is not that “thick.” Business Math is the outer part of it—basic mathematics. You don’t have to be that good, but you should have a fair knowledge of math.

Q: What does it really take to study this course?

A: You should know your management theories and the objectives of management. As a manager, you should know your function is to make plans, make decisions, and direct and control your employees to achieve the aim of the organization. You are the face of the organization.

Admissions & Career Prospects

Q: What are the O-Level and JAMB subject requirements for Business Management?

A: * O-Level: Five credits including Math and English. The basic subjects needed are Math, English, Accountancy, Economics, and Commerce.

• JAMB: Use of English, Mathematics, Economics, and either Commerce or Accountancy.

Q: What are the job opportunities after graduating?

A: There are several. You can work as the overall manager of an organization or a sectional manager, like a Human Resource Manager or a Marketing Manager. The major aim is to raise managers to lead. You can also work in a bank or diversify into other aspects depending on your choice. There are also many opportunities abroad for those who want to work or further their studies.

Advice & Personal Reflections

Q: Share one mistake you made in your first year and your advice for new students.

A: My mistake was being afraid when I saw calculations in Accounting. My advice is: whenever you see a difficult subject, first believe that you can do it. Secondly, if you are struggling with your balance sheets or cash flows toward exams, go to your senior colleagues. They are there to help and will put you through. You have to be determined.

Q: How do you handle your academics? Do you attend night classes?

A: I tried night classes in my first year, but I realized they didn’t work for me. You have to know what works for you. Now, I study during the day, sleep for a few hours, and wake up around 1:00 AM or 2:00 AM to study until 6:00 AM.

Q: What is your most memorable experience in school so far?

A: Getting my admission letter! I was very happy. Finally, I was a student. The joy was so much that I wanted to resume even before the start date.

Q: What is your advice for secondary school students preparing for JAMB?

A: Previously, people used pencils to shade, but now it is computer-based and timed. You have to know your basics, especially in Math and Accounting, so you can calculate quickly. If you spend too much time clicking around, the time will go. Study hard; everything is achievable.

The Academic Reality: Facing the “Accounting” Hurdle

One of the biggest challenges Business Management students face isn’t actually a management course—it’s Accounting.

Destiny explains that because Accounting is a “borrowed” course for management students, the lecturers often move fast.

• The Challenge: While Accountancy students might spend two sessions learning the basics, Management students often have to grasp the core concepts in just one semester.

• The Advice: Don’t panic when you see balance sheets and profit/loss accounts. If you get stuck, meet your senior colleagues. “This is a school environment; everybody wants everybody to pass,” Destiny says.

Admissions & Requirements

Thinking of applying? Here is the breakdown of what you need to get into Business Management:

O’Level Requirements (WAEC/NECO)

You need at least five credits, including:

1. English Language

2. Mathematics

3. Economics

4. Commerce

5. Accountancy

JAMB Subject Combination

To sit for the JAMB UTME, you must select:

• Use of English

• Mathematics

• Economics

• Commerce or Government (Accountancy is also a strong addition)

Can an “Average” Math Student Survive?

Yes! Destiny reassures students that you don’t need to be a mathematical genius. You just need a “fair knowledge” of basic mathematics and business math. The focus is more on Management Theories—learning how to plan, decide, direct, and control an organization.

Career Opportunities: Where Can You Work?

The major aim of this department is to raise managers. Graduates are not just limited to office roles; they are trained to be the “face” of an organization.

• Overall Manager/CEO

• Human Resource Manager (HR)

• Marketing Manager

• Banking: Many graduates successfully transition into the banking sector.

• International Opportunities: The degree is highly recognized for those looking to work or further their studies abroad.

Survival Tips for Freshers

Destiny shared some personal “street-smarts” for surviving the University of Nigeria:

1. Find Your Study Rhythm

Don’t force “Night Classes” if they don’t work for you.

• The Night Class Trap: Many students go to “T-Class” (night class) only to end up sleeping on the desks.

• Destiny’s Routine: “I studied during the day. If I’m tired, I rest, then I wake up at 1:00 AM or 2:00 AM and study until 6:00 AM. You have to know what works for you.”

2. Believe in Yourself

Destiny’s biggest mistake in the first year was being intimidated by calculations. His advice? Develop a positive mindset from Day 1. If you believe you can do it, you will find a way to learn it.

3. Prepare for CBT

JAMB is now computer-based and strictly timed. If you are taking calculation-heavy subjects, you must practice your speed and basic math skills so you don’t get stuck on one question while the timer runs out.

Final Words

The joy of receiving that admission letter is a feeling like no other. To every student currently studying for JAMB: Everything is achievable if you study hard.

Are you considering a career in Management? What is your biggest fear about starting university? Let us know in the comments!