JAMB Subject Combination for Mass Communication: A Teacher’s Success Guide
I have seen so many bright students lose their admission not because they weren’t smart enough, but because they chose the wrong subjects. Getting the jamb subject combination for mass communication right is the very first step in your journey to becoming a media professional. In my years of teaching and guiding aspirants into top Nigerian universities, I’ve realized that Mass Com is one of the most competitive courses, and the slightest error in your subject selection can lead to an automatic disqualification by the CAPS system.
When you sit in my classroom, I always emphasize that Mass Communication isn’t just about “liking news.” It’s a social science that requires a blend of linguistic precision and an understanding of societal structures. Choosing the right subjects proves to the university that you have the foundational brainpower to handle the rigors of media law, ethics, and reporting.
What is the official JAMB subject combination for Mass Communication?
The mandatory jamb subject combination for mass communication consists of Use of English and three other Arts or Social Science subjects. Specifically, you must take Use of English, Literature-in-English, and any other two subjects from Government, History, Economics, Christian Religious Studies (CRS), or Islamic Religious Studies (IRS).
Why is Literature-in-English so important for Mass Communication?
Is Literature compulsory for Mass Communication?
Yes, for almost all competitive federal and state universities, Literature-in-English is a core requirement. Since Mass Communication involves intensive writing, storytelling, and critical analysis, the JAMB board uses Literature to test your ability to interpret complex narratives and master the English language beyond basic grammar and vocabulary.
What happens if I don’t take Literature?
If you omit Literature and take a subject like Geography or Commerce instead, you might still get a high JAMB score, but you will likely be rejected during the Post-UTME screening. I’ve watched students score 280+ only to be told they are ineligible because they didn’t meet the faculty’s specific subject prerequisites. Always check the JAMB Brochure for institution-specific waivers.
Which “other two subjects” should I choose for the best score?
Once you have English and Literature locked in, you need two more. Based on my experience helping students maximize their points, here is how I recommend you choose:
| Subject | Why you should choose it |
| Government | Essential for understanding the political climate you will report on. |
| Economics | Great if you want to venture into Business Journalism or Advertising. |
| CRS/IRS | Often considered “easier” to score high in if you have a strong religious background. |
Teacher’s Insight: If you are excellent at memorization, Government and CRS/IRS are usually the safest bets to boost your total aggregate. If you prefer logic and data, go with Government and Economics.
What are the O’Level requirements for Mass Communication?
Getting the jamb subject combination for mass communication right is only half the battle; your WAEC/NECO results must back it up. You need at least five credits in one or two sittings, including:
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English Language
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Mathematics
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Literature-in-English
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Two other Arts or Social Science subjects.
I always tell my students to aim for distinctions (A1-B3) in English and Literature. Many top-tier universities, like the University of Lagos (UNILAG), use a point system where your O’level grades significantly impact your final admission chances.
Common mistakes to avoid during JAMB registration
In my years of observing the admission cycle, these three errors ruin more dreams than the exam itself:
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Using Commercial Subjects Only: Avoid taking a combination like English, Commerce, Accounting, and Economics. This is for Management Sciences, not Mass Communication.
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Neglecting Mathematics: While you don’t take Math in JAMB for this course, you must have a credit in it in your O’level.
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Ignoring the University’s Specific List: Some schools have “special waivers.” For example, some may accept a science subject as the 4th option, but I strongly advise sticking to Arts/Social Sciences to remain safe across all choices.
How to prepare for a high score in Mass Communication subjects
To beat the high cut-off marks, you need a strategy. I recommend starting with the JAMB syllabus for each of your four subjects. Focus on the recommended textbooks—especially for Literature, where you must read the specific drama, poetry, and prose texts selected for the 2026/2027 cycle. Practice with past questions daily to understand the “tricks” examiners use in Use of English.
