An In-Depth Look at the Courses Offered at Federal Polytechnic Daura
Federal Polytechnic Daura is one of Nigeria’s leading tertiary institutions, renowned for its high-quality technical and vocational education. The polytechnic was established in 1993 and is located in Daura, Katsina State. It has continued to evolve over the years and now consists of six schools offering a diverse range of courses. In this article, we take an in-depth look at the various courses available across the different schools at Federal Polytechnic Daura.
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Overview of Federal Polytechnic Daura
Federal Polytechnic Daura (FPD) is a federal government-owned tertiary institution that provides theoretical education and practical skills across various technical and vocational fields. The polytechnic aims to produce skilled manpower that can contribute to Nigeria’s economic and technological development.
FPD has full accreditation from the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) and currently has about 15,000 students enrolled in its various programs. The institution operates an academic calendar divided into two semesters and also runs a remedial program for students who do not meet the minimum admission requirements.
The polytechnic is located along Daurawa Road in Daura town and occupies a large expanse of land. It has lecture halls, well-equipped workshops and laboratories, a health center, sports facilities, and student residential hostels. FPD also has an e-library, computer center, and other resources to facilitate learning and research.
Over the years, FPD has continued to increase its course offerings and student enrollment figures as it strives to meet the high demand for technical education in Nigeria. It has also formed linkages with industries and organizations to enhance skills acquisition and job prospects for its graduates.
Courses Offered at Federal Polytechnic Daura
Federal Polytechnic Daura has six schools offering ND (National Diploma) and HND (Higher National Diploma) programs in different specialized areas. Here is an in-depth look at the courses available in each school:
School of Science and Technology
The School of Science and Technology offers courses in various science and technology fields to equip students with theoretical knowledge and practical skills for careers in these areas. Some of the courses offered include:
- Science Laboratory Technology (SLT): This 2-year ND program focuses on equipping students with skills in laboratory analyses for biological, chemical, and physical scientific investigations. Subjects covered include biology, chemistry, biochemistry, microscopy, analytical techniques, instrumentation, quality assurance, etc. Graduates can work as laboratory technologists/technicians in research institutes, hospitals, industries, education sector etc.
- Computer Science (CST): This program aims at training computer scientists and IT professionals. It covers topics such as computer fundamentals, programming, software engineering, database management, networking, web design, computer graphics, etc. Holders of the HND can work in IT firms, government agencies, financial institutions etc.
- Statistics (STA): This course equips students with skills in statistical data analysis using tools like SAS, SPPS, R etc. The curriculum includes probability theory, statistical inference, survey design, time series analysis, regression modeling etc. Career prospects include business analytics, biostatistics, economic analysis, and more.
- Food Science and Technology (FST): This course provides training in food processing, preservation, packaging, safety protocols, and quality control. Relevant subjects include food microbiology, nutrition, food chemistry, food analysis, etc. Graduates can work in food production companies, food regulatory agencies, quality control labs etc.
- Architecture (ARC): This program covers architectural design, building technology, construction management, environmental control, graphic communication, history of architecture etc. Graduates can be professional architects, building technologists etc.
The School of Science and Technology ensures students acquire relevant theoretical knowledge and also get extensive hands-on practice through laboratory sessions, industrial attachments, and project work. The well-equipped science and computer labs facilitate effective learning.
School of Engineering
The School of Engineering at FPD offers various engineering courses accredited by COREN (Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria). Some of the major programs include:
- Electrical/Electronics Engineering (EEE): This course provides training in electricity generation and transmission, electrical installations, electronics, instrumentation and control, telecommunications, power systems analysis etc. Graduates can work in power companies, manufacturing plants, telecom firms etc.
- Mechanical Engineering (MEC): The curriculum covers thermal/machine design, thermodynamics, mechatronics, manufacturing processes, fluid mechanics, engineering materials, mechanics of machines etc. Career opportunities exist in automotive firms, construction companies, manufacturing plants, oil and gas sector etc.
- Civil Engineering (CVE): This program equips students with skills in structural analysis/design, transportation engineering, hydraulics, soil mechanics, environmental engineering, surveying etc. Graduates can be structural engineers, highway engineers, project managers etc.
- Chemical Engineering (CHE): Students learn about chemical process calculations, fluid flow, heat transfer, mass transfer, thermodynamics, reaction engineering, process control etc. Graduates are employable in oil/gas, food processing, fertilizer, pharmaceutical companies etc.
- Marine Engineering (MRE): This course focuses on design, maintenance and repair of marine engines, auxiliaries and other onboard systems. Graduates are trained as marine engineers to work onboard ships, boatyards, harbors etc.
The engineering workshops and laboratories at FPD contain equipment like lathe machines, milling machines, foundry, CAD/CAM software etc. which provide students with practical hands-on experience. Students also undergo SIWES (Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme) at reputable firms to gain field exposure.
School of Business and Management Studies
The School of Business and Management Studies runs academic programs in different areas of business administration, accountancy, marketing, banking & finance etc. The courses offered include:
- Business Administration (BUS): This course aims at equipping students with solid foundation in all aspects of managing a business enterprise. Subjects covered include business environment, organizational behavior, marketing, accounting, operations research, strategic management etc. Graduates can work in both private and public sector organizations.
- Accountancy (ACC): Students are trained in financial accounting, management accounting, taxation, auditing, and accounting information systems. Graduates can work as accountants, tax consultants, auditors, CFOs etc. in corporate organizations as well as accounting firms.
- Banking & Finance (BFN): This program focuses on banking operations, financial institutions and markets, investment analysis, international finance, portfolio theory, financial modeling etc. Career opportunities exist in commercial banks, mortgage banks, investment banks, insurance firms etc.
- Public Administration (PAD): The curriculum covers public policy, development administration, public sector financial management, human resource management, public relations, project management etc. Graduates are equipped for careers in government ministries, agencies, and parastatals.
- Marketing (MKT): Students learn about customer analysis, marketing research, international marketing, integrated marketing communications, sales management, digital marketing strategies etc. Holders of this HND can work as marketing executives, brand managers, marketing consultants etc.
- Purchasing & Supply (PSM): This course focuses on procurement, contract management, inventory control, logistics, warehousing, vendor management etc. Graduates can work as purchasing/supply chain managers in manufacturing, oil and gas, FMCG etc.
Through case studies, role plays, industrial attachment and stimulating internship, the school provides a practical approach to learning business and management principles. Graduates acquire commercial awareness and analytical skills for the corporate world.
School of Art and Design
The School of Art and Design runs creative programs covering visual arts, media, performing arts, communications etc. Some of the courses offered are:
- Mass Communication (MCS): Students are equipped with skills in news reporting, photojournalism, broadcast journalism, public relations, advertising, media law and ethics etc. Graduates work as reporters, correspondents, news editors, public relations officers, media consultants etc.
- Fine & Applied Arts (FAA): This covers drawing, painting, sculpture, graphics design, textile design, metal works, ceramics, art history etc. Graduates work as studio artists, art instructors, illustrators, product/exhibition designers, art critics etc.
- Theater & Media Studies (TMS): The curriculum covers acting, directing, media production, theater management, scriptwriting, theater history, lighting etc. Career opportunities include working with production companies, media houses, directing plays etc.
- Music (MUS): Areas covered include music theory, instrumental performance, vocal training, sound engineering, music production etc. Graduates work as music composers, performers, sound engineers, DJs, event managers etc.
- Fashion Design & Clothing Technology (FCT): Students learn about principles of design, textile science, pattern drafting, sewing, fashion illustration, draping, apparel production etc. Graduates can work with fashion/apparel brands, costume designing, fashion media etc.
The well-equipped studios and workshops facilitate practical learning in this school. Students also undertake exhibitions, recitals, fashion shows, and media productions to showcase their talents.
School of Health Technology
The School of Health Technology trains students for various roles within the healthcare sector. Some of the courses offered are:
- Medical Laboratory Science (MLS): This covers laboratory investigations of biomedical samples, clinical chemistry techniques, hematology, histopathology, blood transfusion science etc. Graduates work as medical lab scientists in hospitals, clinics, research centers etc.
- Environmental Health Technology (EHT): Students learn about environmental hygiene and sanitation, pollution control, public health education, food safety protocols, waste management etc. Career prospects include working for regulatory agencies, NGOs, health departments etc.
- Community Health (CHT): This program focuses on delivering primary healthcare, disease prevention, rural healthcare services, maternal and child health, immunization etc. Graduates work with community health centers, NGOs, government health agencies etc.
- Health Information Management (HIM): The curriculum covers topics like healthcare statistics, health informatics, medical records management, data analytics, hospital coding etc. Graduates can work in healthcare establishments as health information managers/technologists.
- Nutrition & Dietetics (NDT): Students are equipped with knowledge about clinical nutrition, diet therapy, food service management, nutritional biochemistry, community nutrition etc. Holders of this HND can work as dieticians, nutritionists, food service managers etc.
The well-equipped dental lab, health information center, and community health outreach enable students to acquire practical experience in this field. Overall, graduates develop relevant healthcare skills to cater to the needs of local communities.
School of General Studies
The School of General Studies runs remedial programs to prepare candidates who do not meet direct entry requirements for admission into the main ND and HND courses. The available programs include:
- Pre-ND Science: This one-year program offers courses in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, statistics, and English/communication skills to qualify candidates for science and technology-based ND courses.
- Pre-ND Engineering: Students take subjects including mathematics, physics, chemistry, technical drawing, and English/communication skills before proceeding to engineering ND courses.
- Pre-ND Business & Mgt. Studies: This involves courses in accounting, commerce, mathematics, economics, English/communication skills to prepare students for business-related ND programs.
- Pre-ND Arts & Design: Students do English, fine arts, creative arts, mathematics and other courses to qualify for arts and design ND courses.
The remedial classes ensure students have the requisite foundation to thrive in their respective disciplines at the ND level and beyond.
Entry Requirements for the Courses
To gain admission into the various ND and HND programs at Federal Polytechnic Daura, candidates must meet certain minimum entry requirements:
- For ND courses, candidates require a minimum of 4 credits in SSCE/NECO, including English, Mathematics and other relevant subjects to the chosen course.
- For HND level, applicants must have completed the ND program in a related field from a recognized polytechnic with a minimum of lower credit.
- Candidates with ND certificates from unrelated fields may also apply for direct entry into 200-level of an HND program, subject to vacancies.
- For Pre-ND courses, applicants need a minimum of 3 credits in SSCE/NECO/WASSCE including English language.
- In addition, all applicants must pass the post-UTME screening exercise organized by the polytechnic. This includes a written test and oral interview.
Meeting the advertised cut-off marks for each program is vital. Candidates are also required to present their credentials for verification during the admission process.
Registration Procedure for Fresh Students
Here is an outline of the key steps involved in the registration process for fresh students admitted into Federal Polytechnic Daura:
- Online Application: Visit the polytechnic website or portal to fill the online admission application form by providing your personal, academic and other details.
- Entrance Examination: Sit for the post-UTME/screening test on the designated date and try to excel to increase your chances of admission.
- Admission List Checking: Regularly check the polytechnic website/noticeboard for the admission list to confirm if you have been offered provisional admission.
- Acceptance Fee Payment: Pay the prescribed acceptance fee at a designated bank to confirm your admission.
- Online Registration: Use your admission details to complete the online registration process via the student portal.
- Final Admission Letter: Download and print your final admission letter after completing the online registration.
- School Fees Payment: Pay the stipulated tuition fees and other charges into the polytechnic’s bank account.
- Clearance & Documentation: Report for the clearance exercise with your credentials and documents for verification. Get cleared to become a bonafide student.
- Course Registration: Meet your HOD and register for the specific courses you will take in each semester.
By completing these key steps, fresh students can finalize their admission and registration with Federal Polytechnic Daura.
Graduation Requirements
For students to successfully graduate from any program at Federal Polytechnic Daura, there are certain requirements that must be fulfilled:
- Students must complete and pass all the prescribed courses for their particular program with a minimum CGPA of 1.50 for ND and 2.00 for HND.
- Students must also complete and defend their SIWES industrial training and final year research project as applicable.
- A minimum of 75% class attendance is mandatory in each course. Students risk retaking courses if they miss more than 25% of classes.
- The minimum duration for ND programs is 4 semesters (2 years) and 4 semesters (2 years) for HND. Students can exceed this but must graduate within 5 years.
- Payment of all outstanding school fees and clearance of any disciplinary issues are also required before graduation.
- Passing the final year examinations is compulsory. Students may need to undertake re-sits if they fail.
- Participation in the mandatory SIWES program for 6 months and submission of acceptable reports.
- Final year students must complete clearance forms and undergo exit interviews with their HODs and the academic office.
Meeting these key academic and administrative requirements makes graduating students eligible for certification and their transcripts.
Job Prospects for Graduates
Given its technology-focused mandate, Federal Polytechnic Daura equips graduates with relevant theoretical knowledge and practical skills that enhance their employment prospects in Nigeria. Here are some of the major career opportunities for graduates from the different schools:
Science and Technology Graduates
- Laboratory technologists/technicians
- IT professionals – programmers, developers, system analysts etc.
- Data analysts, statisticians
- Food scientists and technologists
- Architects, building technologists
- Research officers
Engineering Graduates
- Electrical, mechanical, civil, chemical engineers
- Engineering technicians – installation, maintenance, servicing
- Technical supervisors in construction, manufacturing etc.
- Technical sales and marketing specialists
Business and Management Graduates
- Accountants, financial analysts, auditors, tax consultants
- Marketing executives, business development managers
- Banking and insurance professionals
- Procurement and supply chain managers
- Human resource managers
- Administrative officers
Arts and Design Graduates
- Media professionals – journalists, broadcasters, publishers
- Performing and visual artists, graphic designers
- Photographers, videographers, animators
- Costume designers, fashion brand executives
- Interior decorators, exhibition designers
Health Technology Graduates
- Medical lab scientists/technologists
- Environmental health officers
- Community health workers
- Health data professionals
- Nutritionists and dieticians
Equipped with a diploma from FPD, graduates can also proceed to further their education by pursuing a higher degree program in their respective field either in Nigeria or abroad.
Federal Polytechnic, Daura Requirements.
Federal Polytechnic Daura (FPD) is one of the foremost federal polytechnics in Nigeria acclaimed for its quality technical and vocational education. The polytechnic offers a wide range of National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) programs across diverse fields. Gaining admission into FPD requires prospective candidates to meet certain stipulated admission requirements. This article provides a detailed overview of the entry requirements for all study programs at both ND and HND levels in Federal Polytechnic Daura.
Overview of Federal Polytechnic Daura
Federal Polytechnic Daura is located in Daura, Katsina State, Nigeria. It was established in 1993 during the administration of General Ibrahim Babangida aimed at expanding access to technical education in the country. The polytechnic is approved by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) and currently has about 15,000 students pursuing various ND and HND courses.
FPD has a very large campus occupying 3,000 hectares of land area along Daurawa road. It has over 60 well-equipped laboratories, workshops, classrooms, auditoriums, cafeteria, health centers, and sporting facilities. There are also on-campus hostels that can accommodate up to 5,000 students in addition to staff quarters.
The polytechnic is made up of six schools and one college namely:
- School of Science and Technology
- School of Engineering Technology
- School of Environmental Studies
- School of Management Studies
- School of General Studies
- School of Art and Design
- College of Administrative and Business Studies
FPD runs an academic calendar divided into two semesters. It also operates a remedial program under the School of General Studies for candidates who do not meet requirements for direct entry admission. The polytechnic has continued to upgrade its infrastructure and teaching facilities to meet world-class standards.
Admission Requirements for ND Programs
For candidates seeking admission into any of the ND programs offered at Federal Polytechnic Daura, the following requirements must be fulfilled:
a) SSCE/GCE O’Level Credit Passes
- Applicants must have a minimum of 5 credit passes at the SSCE/GCE O’Level conducted by recognized examination bodies like WAEC, NECO, NABTEB etc. The credit passes must be at not more than two sittings.
- The subjects passed must include English Language and Mathematics which are compulsory for all programs.
- In addition, credit passes are required in 3 other subjects that relate to the candidate’s intended course of study.
- For art and design related courses, a credit in Fine Art is mandatory in place of Mathematics.
b) UTME Subjects and Scores
- All applicants must sit for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) organized by JAMB in the year of admission.
- Candidates are required to pass the UTME with a minimum score of 160 marks.
- English Language, Mathematics, and two other relevant subjects as specified for each program must be taken in the UTME.
- Candidates are also expected to attain the prescribed UTME cut-off mark for their program. This cut-off varies based on competition and vacancies.
c) Age Limit
- Applicants should not be less than 16 years or more than 28 years of age as at the year of admission.
- There may be relaxation of the upper age limit for candidates with extensive work experience applying for certain programs.
d) Physical Fitness
- All candidates must be certified physically and mentally fit with no disabilities that may hinder effective learning.
e) Good Conduct
- Applicants must present testimonials of good conduct from their former school or employer.
- Students expelled from other institutions on disciplinary grounds will not be admitted.
f) Online Application
- Interested candidates must complete the online application form and submit it with relevant documents.
- Payment of a non-refundable application fee is also required.
Admission Requirements for HND Programs
For admission into the HND programs at Federal Polytechnic Daura, the following entry requirements must be fulfilled by candidates:
a) ND Certificate
- Applicants must have completed a National Diploma program in a relevant field of study from an accredited institution.
- The minimum acceptable grade is Lower Credit although programs like Engineering may require an Upper Credit.
- Only ND certificates obtained within the last 5 years will be recognized.
b) UTME Score
- All applicants must take the UTME exam in the year of admission and attain the prescribed cut-off mark for their program.
- A minimum UTME score of 10 points above the national cut-off mark is required.
c) O’Level Subjects
- In addition to the ND, some programs also specify certain O’Level credit passes as requirements.
- This includes credit passes in subjects like Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Economics, Technical Drawing etc. depending on the HND program.
d) Online Application
- Candidates must complete the online application form on the polytechnic portal.
- Relevant documents like ND certificate, UTME result slip, credential affidavits must be uploaded.
e) Age and Fitness
- Applicants should not exceed 30 years of age in the year of admission.
- They must also present evidence of medical fitness.
Specific Requirements for Different Study Programs
While the general admission requirements highlighted above apply to all ND and HND programs at the Federal Polytechnic Daura, some departments and courses also specify additional entry requirements that candidates must satisfy. Here is an outline of program-specific requirements:
School of Science and Technology
- Computer Science: O’Level credit passes in Mathematics, Physics, English, and any other two science subjects.
- Statistics: Five O’Level credits including Mathematics, English, Economics/Commerce, and any other two relevant subjects.
- Food Science and Technology: O’Level credit passes in English, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Agric Science.
- Architecture: O’Level credit passes in Mathematics, English, Physics and Fine Art, plus any other one subject.
School of Engineering Technology
- Electrical/Electronics Engineering: Credit passes in Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, English Language and any one technical subject.
- Civil Engineering: Five O’Level credits including Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, English, and any other technical/science subject.
- Mechanical Engineering: Credit passes in Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, English Language and any one technical subject.
School of Environmental Studies
- Building Technology: Five O’Level credits including Mathematics, Physics, English Language and any two of Chemistry, Technical Drawing, Fine Art and Geography.
School of Business and Management Studies
- Accounting: Five O’Level credit passes to include English Language, Mathematics, Economics and any other two subjects.
- Public Administration: O’Level credits pass in Government, English Language, Mathematics and any other two subjects.
- Business Administration: Five credit passes at O’Level to include Mathematics, English Language and any three other subjects.
School of Art and Design
- Mass Communication: Five O’Level credit passes including English Language and Literature in English.
- Music: Five O’Level credits including English and Music, plus credit passes in Mathematics and any two Arts or Social Science subjects.
Health Technology
- Environmental Health Technology: Five O’Level credits including English, Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology and Physics.
- Medical Laboratory Sciences: Five O’Level credits including English, Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology and Physics.
Application Process and Registration of Admitted Students
After fulfilling the admission requirements, prospective ND and HND students of Federal Polytechnic Daura will have to undergo the following application and registration procedures:
1. Online Application
- Visit the polytechnic portal and create an account first with your valid email address and phone number.
- Complete the online application form with your personal data, academic history, and program of choice.
- Upload scanned copies of your credentials including passport, O’Level certificate, ND certificate (for HND), etc. as required.
- Make payment of the non-refundable application fee using the payment options on the portal.
2. Entrance Examination
- Candidates must print and come with their examination slip for the screening test/interview on the scheduled date.
- Performance in the screening exercise will determine selection of successful applicants.
3. Acceptance Fee Payment
- After admission lists are released, successful candidates will be given a deadline to visit specified banks and pay the acceptance fee.
4. Online Registration of Courses
- Admitted candidates will receive registration details and should log in to the portal to register their semester courses online.
5. Orientation Program
- All freshers must participate in the orientation program to familiarize with the academic and social environment.
By completing the application process and registration, an admitted candidate gets the status of a bonafide student of the polytechnic.
To find more information about specific program requirements and admission procedures, you can refer to the following resources:
- Federal Polytechnic Daura website: https://fedpolydaura.edu.ng
- Online Application Page: https://fedpolydaura.edu.ng/portal
- Admissions Office: +234-909-454-4991
Remember, staying informed and up-to-date with the latest admission requirements and procedures is crucial to increasing your chances of gaining admission to the Federal Polytechnic Daura.
Conclusion
Federal Polytechnic Daura is one of the top technical and vocational education providers in Nigeria. As highlighted in this article, the polytechnic offers a diverse range of ND and HND programs under its six schools – Science and Technology, Engineering, Business and Management Studies, Arts and Design, Health Technology, and General Studies.
Students can choose from over 50 accredited programs in fields like engineering, computer science, architecture, mass communication, accountancy, nutrition, public health, business administration and many more. The programs provide a rich blend of theoretical learning and practical training using well-equipped labs and workshops.
Graduates from FPD acquire industry-relevant skills and knowledge that enhances their employability and career progression. The polytechnic maintains close partnerships with companies and organizations to facilitate student internship and graduate placements. With its continued infrastructural and academic expansion, FPD remains committed to fulfilling Nigeria’s need for skilled technical manpower.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many schools are there in Federal Polytechnic Daura?
A: There are six schools at Federal Polytechnic Daura – School of Science and Technology, School of Engineering, School of Business and Management Studies, School of Art and Design, School of Health Technology and School of General Studies.
Q: What is the difference between ND and HND at the polytechnic?
A: ND stands for National Diploma and is a 2-year program, while HND means Higher National Diploma and is a 4-year program which includes the ND. The ND offers basic technical skills while the HND offers advanced training in a field.
Q: Does Federal Polytechnic Daura accept UTME/JAMB?
A: Yes, Federal Polytechnic Daura accepts UTME/JAMB scores for admission into its ND programs. Candidates need to apply via JAMB, meet the cut-off mark, and take the post-UTME exam organized by the polytechnic.
Q: What is the dress code for students?
A: Federal Polytechnic Daura prescribes a formal dress code for its students. Male students are required to wear trousers, shirts and ties, while female students must be in skirt/gown and blouse. Traditional attires are also allowed on certain days. Inappropriate or revealing outfits are prohibited on campus.
Q: Does FPD provide accommodation for students?
A: Yes, FPD has several hostel facilities that provide accommodation for students at subsidized rates. Both male and female hostels are available, although limited vacancies exist. Private off-campus hostels are also available.
Q: What is the deadline for registration of fresh students?
A: Fresh students admitted at Federal Polytechnic Daura are given a specific deadline to complete their registration process, usually 2-3 weeks from resumption. Failure to register within this period leads to forfeiture of admission. Students should promptly comply with the stipulated registration deadline.
Q: Does FPD have a functional e-library?
A: Yes, FPD has a well-equipped e-library that provides access to online journals, e-books, and databases to aid students’ research and learning. The library also has reference textbooks, periodicals, newspapers and other hardcopy materials. Students can access both physical and e-resources.
Q: How can I get the polytechnic’s handbook?
A: The student handbook containing important information about FPD is given to all fresh students during the registration process. The handbook is also available on the polytechnic’s website and can be freely downloaded. Hardcopies can be collected from the Academic Affairs office.