Admissions
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements, entry routes and admission cycles for open and distance learning programmes at Rivers State University.
Admission status
Admission into the B.Sc. Business Education programme by open and distance learning will open after NUC approval. Applications will be made online through the CODL portal at rsu.studymateums.com, and application dates will be published on this page.
Our admission requirements balance the open-access philosophy of distance education with the academic standards needed for success at university. All admissions are transparent, merit-based and non-discriminatory, and are approved by the University Senate.
Undergraduate Entry Routes
1. 100 Level Entry
For candidates who have completed secondary education.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| O’Level credits | At least five credit passes in relevant subjects, obtained at not more than two sittings. English Language is compulsory for all programmes. Mathematics is compulsory for Science, Social Science, Management and Education programmes. |
| Relevant subjects | The remaining credits must be in subjects relevant to the programme, as specified by the NUC CCMAS and the University. For B.Sc. Business Education: Economics, Mathematics, English Language and any other Social Science subject. |
| UTME | The UTME examination is not required. All learners will complete JAMB registration as directed by the University’s Admissions Office, and JAMB regularisation in the second level of study, which allows them to receive the NYSC exemption certificate on graduation. |
| Age | Applicants must be at least 16 years old by the date of admission. |
| Results | O’Level results are uploaded to the admission portal (rsu.studymateums.com) and verified. Candidates awaiting results may apply but must present their results before registration. |
2. Direct Entry (200 Level)
For candidates with recognised post-secondary qualifications, in addition to the O’Level requirements:
| Qualification | Minimum requirement |
|---|---|
| National Certificate in Education (NCE) | Merit pass in two relevant teaching subjects (for Education programmes and some related programmes). |
| Ordinary National Diploma (OND) | Lower Credit in a relevant discipline from a recognised polytechnic or college of technology. |
| JUPEB | At least two A-Level passes (grades A–C) in relevant subjects. |
| Cambridge A-Level | At least two A-Level passes in relevant subjects. |
| International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma | At least 24 points, including relevant subjects. |
| University Foundation Programme | At least 60 per cent average from a recognised, accredited programme. |
Direct Entry candidates may receive credit for equivalent courses passed at their previous institution, up to 30 per cent of the total programme credits, subject to approval by the Board of Studies.
3. Top-Up for HND Holders (200 or 300 Level)
Holders of the Higher National Diploma (HND) with at least a Lower Credit (CGPA 2.50) in a discipline relevant to the degree may be admitted at 200 or 300 level, depending on an evaluation of their transcript and course content. Bridging courses may be required to cover gaps between the HND and the degree programme.
4. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
Applicants with relevant work experience, professional training or other learning outside a university may apply for credit through Recognition of Prior Learning at the time of application. Applications are assessed by a panel and approved by the Board of Studies. RPL credit is limited to 30 per cent of programme credits and is not granted for core professional courses, supervised practicals or the final-year project. A non-refundable assessment fee applies.
Postgraduate Admission
When postgraduate programmes are offered by open and distance learning, admission will follow the regulations of the Rivers State University College of Postgraduate Studies, with the same standards as conventional programmes:
| Programme | Minimum requirement |
|---|---|
| Postgraduate Diploma | A bachelor’s degree (Third Class or better) or HND (Lower Credit or better) in a relevant discipline. |
| Master’s degree | A bachelor’s degree with Second Class Honours (Lower Division) or better, or a Third Class degree with a relevant PGD (CGPA 3.0 or 60 per cent). Some programmes require work experience. |
| Doctor of Philosophy | A relevant master’s degree with a CGPA of 3.50 or 60 per cent, an approved research proposal and success in a qualifying examination or interview. |
Admission Cycles
The Centre plans two admission cycles each academic year, subject to Senate approval:
| Intake | Application window | Programme starts |
|---|---|---|
| Main intake | October – January | March (first semester) |
| Mid-year intake | April – July | September (second semester) |
All applications are made online through the CODL admission portal at rsu.studymateums.com. Short certificate courses may admit learners throughout the year.
Equal Opportunity
The Centre is an equal opportunity institution. Applicants are considered on academic merit alone, without regard to gender, ethnicity or state of origin, religion, disability, age, marital or family status, or socio-economic status. There is no upper age limit. Candidates with disabilities are admitted on the same academic criteria and receive reasonable accommodations in their studies.
Deferment and Leave of Absence
- Admitted candidates may defer admission for up to one academic year by writing to the Centre before the first semester begins.
- Enrolled learners facing medical, family or financial challenges may apply for leave of absence for up to two consecutive semesters.
- Learners who withdrew may apply for readmission after one year, subject to approval by the Board of Studies.
After Admission
All new learners must complete a compulsory orientation programme before they can access their courses (see How You Will Learn).