An In-Depth Look at the Course Offerings at Federal Polytechnic Bida

The Federal Polytechnic Bida in Niger State is one of Nigeria’s leading tertiary institutions, offering a wide range of courses across diverse fields. With its roots dating back to 1977 as the Federal Training Centre, the school was upgraded to a polytechnic status in 2019. Today, Federal Polytechnic Bida has cemented itself as a center of academic excellence in the country.

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The polytechnic comprises five schools offering national diploma (ND) and higher national diploma (HND) programs. These schools are:

• School of Applied Sciences
• School of Business and Management Studies
• School of Engineering Technology
• School of Information and Communication Technology
• School of Agricultural Technology

In this comprehensive article, we take an in-depth look at the various departments and course offerings under each school at the Federal Polytechnic Bida.

School of Applied Sciences

The School of Applied Sciences focuses on programs in social sciences, natural sciences, and allied professional fields. It currently has four departments under it:

Department of Accountancy

The Department of Accountancy offers ND and HND programs in Accountancy. With about 30 academic staff, it equips students with the knowledge and skills for careers in accounting, auditing, taxation, financial analysis, and related fields.

The curriculum covers courses in financial accounting, cost accounting, taxation, auditing, and accounting information systems. Students also take general education courses in communication, computer science, and business.

The department boasts excellent facilities including a computer laboratory and accounting studio to facilitate effective teaching and learning. Graduates of the accountancy program can pursue professional qualifications with bodies like ICAN, ANAN, and CIPFA.

Department of Computer Science

The Department of Computer Science provides both ND and HND programs in Computer Science. With over 40 lecturers, the department aims to produce competent IT professionals and researchers.

Students take courses in programming languages like Java and C++, data structures and algorithms, database management, software engineering, computer networking, web design, and mobile computing. The program also includes mathematics, statistics, and general education courses.

Practical classes take place in the department’s various computer laboratories housing over 200 computers. Graduates can work in roles like software developers, database administrators, systems analysts, and IT project managers.

Department of Library and Information Science

This department trains students for careers in librarianship and information management. The ND and HND Library and Information Science programs equip students with skills in information retrieval systems, cataloging and classification, indexing, abstracting, library automation, and more.

Some courses students take include information resources, ICT application in libraries, management of information systems, reference and bibliographic services, technical services, and so on. Students also learn research methodologies relevant to the LIS field.

With a dedicated e-library and qualified faculty, the department produces graduates ready for work in academic, public, special, private, and digital libraries.

Department of Nutrition and Dietetics

This department offers ND and HND programs in Nutrition and Dietetics to equip students with knowledge in food, nutrition, and dietetics. Areas covered include food chemistry, human nutrition, diet therapy, nutritional biochemistry, food service management, and community nutrition.

Students gain practical experience through attachments in hospitals, food companies, and other institutions. Graduates can work as nutritionists, dieticians, food service managers, and researchers. The department has partnerships with the Nutrition Society of Nigeria.

Department of Office Technology and Management

Formerly the Department of Secretarial Studies, this department offers ND and HND programs in Office Technology and Management (OTM). It aims to produce skilled office administrators and managers.

The curriculum covers areas like office management, word processing, office communication, reprographics, information processing, shorthand, and more. Students learn both manual and computerized office skills relevant to the 21st century workplace.

Graduates can work as private secretaries, administrative officers, executive assistants, office managers, executive secretaries, and so on. The department has active collaborations with the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators of Nigeria (ICSAN).

Department of Public Administration

This department offers ND and HND courses to train students for careers in the public sector. It provides knowledge in public policy, government operations, development administration, local government, organizational behavior and more.

Students take courses in public administration theory, administrative law, personnel management, public finance, ethics, federalism, development planning, and so on. Graduates can work in ministries, government agencies, local government councils, and public enterprises.

The department frequently invites guest lecturers from the public sector to provide students with practical insights. It also organizes field trips to expose students to real-life public administration scenarios.

School of Business and Management Studies

The School of Business and Management Studies at the Federal Polytechnic Bida focuses on courses relating to business, management, and allied fields. It currently has six departments under it offering both ND and HND programs:

Department of Banking and Finance

This department equips students with knowledge and skills for careers in banking, finance, insurance, stockbroking and other money-related sectors. Areas covered include financial management, investment analysis, corporate finance, financial institutions and markets, insurance and risk management, microfinance, and more.

In addition to lectures and tutorials, students undergo a mandatory 6-month industrial training in reputable financial institutions. The department frequently invites guest speakers from the banking and finance industry. Graduates often find work in banks, insurance firms, stock brokerage companies, pension administrators, and related organizations.

Department of Business Administration and Management

The Department of Business Administration and Management offers ND and HND courses in business management. Students take courses in principles of management, marketing, business communication, entrepreneurship development, organizational behavior, strategic management, international business, and so on.

Through case studies, role plays, and simulations, students develop practical management skills. Six months of industrial training in business organizations is also required before graduation. Graduates can work as business managers, marketers, human resource managers, and business consultants.

Department of Estate Management and Valuation

This department provides training in real estate management, investment, and appraisal. The curriculum covers property management, facility management, valuation, land economics, property law, land surveying, feasibility and viability studies, and related areas.

Students undergo professional attachments with estate firms to gain hands-on experience. Graduates can work as estate surveyors and valuers, property managers, facility managers, real estate developers, and so on. The department collaborates with the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers.

Department of Hospitality Management

The Department of Hospitality Management offers ND and HND courses related to the hospitality industry. Areas covered include food and beverage management, front office operations, housekeeping operations, event management, customer service, tourism and hospitality law, food safety and hygiene, and more.

Students undergo industrial training in hotels and eateries to gain first-hand experience. Graduates are equipped for careers in hotels, restaurants, cruise lines, resorts, and other hospitality establishments. The department has links with the Nigerian Institute of Hospitality Professionals.

Department of Leisure and Tourism Management

This department provides education and training for the leisure, recreation, travel and tourism industries. The curriculum covers areas like tourism planning and development, tour operations management, Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events (MICE) management, leisure and recreation administration, ecotourism, and so on.

In addition to classwork, students go on educational tours to tourist sites and engage in practical exercises. Graduates can work as travel consultants, tour operators, event planners, leisure/recreation managers, and so on.

Department of Marketing

The Department of Marketing offers ND and HND courses related to marketing and sales management. Key areas covered include principles of marketing, salesmanship and sales management, marketing research, services marketing, digital marketing, international marketing, strategic marketing, consumer behavior, and more.

Students participate in sales promotions, market simulations, industrial training, and other experiential learning activities. Graduates can work as marketing executives, sales managers, brand managers, customer service professionals, and so on. The department partners with the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria (NIMN).

School of Engineering Technology

The School of Engineering Technology at Federal Polytechnic Bida delivers courses in diverse fields of engineering at the technologist level. With about 150 lecturers, the school has eleven departments running both ND and HND programs:

Department of Agricultural Technology

This department offers ND and HND training in various aspects of agricultural technology and engineering. Courses covered include farm machinery and power, agricultural process engineering, irrigation and drainage engineering, refrigeration and cold storage, soil and water conservation, aquaculture, and more.

Students undergo industrial attachments with agro-based companies to gain hands-on experience. Graduates can work on farms, food processing plants, agricultural input companies, and other agribusinesses.

Department of Architectural Technology

The Department of Architectural Technology provides education in aspects of building and architectural design, construction, and services. Key areas covered in the curriculum include building drawing, building construction, building materials, building services, interior decoration, landscape architecture, architectural modeling, and so on.

Students execute practical studio projects in addition to conventional lessons. Graduates can work as architectural technologists, draughtsmen, technicians, and assistants to registered architects and builders.

Department of Building Technology

This department focuses on various disciplines relating to building construction and services. The curriculum covers courses in building design, constructional materials, building production management, interior architecture, quantity surveying, land surveying, urban and regional planning, and so on.

Through studio work and industrial attachments, students gain practical construction site experience. Graduates are equipped for supervisory roles in public and private building projects.

Department of Chemical Engineering Technology

The Department of Chemical Engineering Technology provides ND and HND training in aspects of process design, plant operation, and industrial chemistry. Courses covered include stoichiometry, chemical process principles, chemical engineering thermodynamics, instrumental analysis, petroleum technology, polymer technology, and so on.

Laboratory practicals provide students with first-hand experience in process simulations, chemical analysis, and project designs. Graduates may work in chemical, petrochemical, and allied plants in technical and supervisory capacities.

Department of Civil Engineering Technology

This department delivers education in various fields relating to infrastructure and the built environment. Key areas covered in the curriculum include structural analysis, hydraulics, highways and transportation, soil mechanics, estimating and costing, GIS applications, environmental engineering, and more.

Extensive laboratory work provides practical experience to students. Graduates can work on construction projects, consultancies, public works departments and similar organizations in technical roles.

Department of Computer Engineering Technology

The Department of Computer Engineering Technology offers ND and HND programs combining electrical/electronics engineering and computer science. Students take courses in programming languages, operating systems, digital logic design, microprocessors, data communications, embedded systems, instrumentation and control, and so on.

Lab sessions provide practical exposure to systems design, analysis, assembly, and testing. Graduates can work as computer hardware and network technicians, test engineers, and systems support professionals.

Department of Electrical/Electronics Engineering Technology

This department provides electrical and electronics engineering education with emphasis on practical applications. Key courses include electrical circuits, measurements and instrumentation, power systems, telecommunications, industrial electronics and control, radar engineering, renewable energy technologies, and so on.

Extensive hands-on exercises take place in the department’s various laboratories. Graduates can work in technical roles in power firms, telecom companies, manufacturing plants, and other engineering organizations.

Department of Foundry Engineering Technology

The Foundry Engineering Technology department offers training related to metallurgy, foundry processes, and allied areas. Courses covered include elements of metallurgy, sand testing and molding, foundry production processes, metal casting, welding and fabrication, industrial metrology, machine design, and more.

Practical exposure takes place in the foundry workshop and metallurgy laboratory. Graduates are equipped to work in foundries, metal fabrication companies, and engineering workshops.

Department of Industrial Safety and Environmental Engineering Technology

This department provides education relating to safety, health, and environmental protection in industrial settings. The curriculum covers courses in industrial hazard prevention and control, waste management, environmental impact assessment, ergonomics, fire prevention and protection, occupational health and hygiene, and related areas.

Practical training takes place in simulation laboratories. Graduates can work in safety/environmental departments of process plants, construction companies, factories, and similar establishments.

Department of Mechanical Engineering Technology

The Department of Mechanical Engineering Technology delivers broad-based training for careers in various aspects of mechanical and production engineering. Key courses include engineering drawing, strength of materials, thermodynamics, industrial engineering, fluid mechanics and machines, manufacturing technology, and so on.

Extensive hands-on learning takes place in the mechanical workshop, foundry, computer laboratory, and other facilities. Graduates can work as mechanical technicians, plant operators, and maintenance personnel in the manufacturing, oil and gas, and construction sectors.

Department of Mechatronics Engineering Technology

This department provides a blend of mechanical, electronic, computing, control, and systems design skills relevant to modern industry. Areas covered include instrumentation and measurements, pneumatics and hydraulics, programmable logic controllers, robotics, mechatronics system design, artificial intelligence, and so on.

Students undergo practical exercises in the mechatronics laboratory to reinforce learning. Graduates can take up technical roles involving automated systems, robotics, and intelligent machines.

Department of Welding and Fabrication Engineering Technology

This department delivers training in various welding and metal fabrication techniques. Courses covered include welding processes, welding metallurgy, welding codes and standards, destructive and non-destructive testing, computer-aided welding design, welding economics, and so on.

Extensive hands-on practice takes place in the welding bays and fabrication workshop. Graduates are equipped for careers in the welding, construction, and manufacturing industries.

School of Information and Communication Technology

While the other schools offer programs in applied sciences, business, engineering and agriculture, the School of Information and Communication Technology focuses exclusively on training media professionals. It currently has one department under it:

Department of Mass Communication

The Department of Mass Communication offers ND and HND programs to train students for careers in media and communication. Courses covered include news reporting and writing, photojournalism, broadcast journalism, public relations, advertising, media laws and ethics, publishing, social media, and so on.

Students undergo internship programs in media houses to gain industry exposure. Graduates can work as reporters, correspondents, producers, publishers, public relations officers, advert executives, and so on. The department frequently invites seasoned media professionals as guest lecturers.

School of Agricultural Technology

As an agriculture-based economy, Nigeria requires trained manpower to drive growth and productivity in the sector. To meet this need, the Federal Polytechnic Bida offers diploma programs in agricultural technology through the School of Agricultural Technology.

Currently, the school has two departments under it offering ND and HND courses:

Department of Agricultural Engineering Technology

This department delivers training in various aspects of mechanized agriculture. Key areas covered in the curriculum include farm power and machinery, irrigation and drainage systems, agricultural structures, soil and water conservation, aquaculture engineering, food process engineering, and more.

Practical sessions take place in the agricultural mechanics workshop and laboratories. Graduates support farming, food processing, and agro-allied activities in technical capacities.

Department of Horticulture Technology

The Department of Horticulture Technology offers courses relating to the science, business, and technology of growing fruits, vegetables, flowers, landscape plants, and more. Subjects covered include principles of crop production, post-harvest physiology, ornamental plants, landscape design, pest and disease control, horticultural therapy, and so on.

Students get hands-on training in nursery establishment, greenhouse management, and garden landscaping. Graduates can work as horticulturists, landscapers, crop consultants, and suppliers of horticultural products.

Federal Polytechnic, Bida Requirements.

Federal Polytechnic Bida, located in Bida, Niger State, is one of Nigeria’s prominent federal polytechnics. With its origins dating back to 1977, the institution has grown into a reputable center for technical and vocational education. It offers a wide range of National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) programs across diverse fields.

Gaining admission into Federal Polytechnic Bida can seem daunting without understanding the specific entry requirements. These admission requirements vary based on the program being applied for, the entry mode, and other factors.

In this detailed article, we provide a comprehensive overview of the admission requirements for prospective students seeking entry into the various ND and HND programs at Federal Polytechnic Bida.

Admission Requirements for ND Programs

The National Diploma (ND) is a two-year program that serves as the first step towards obtaining a Higher National Diploma. Federal Polytechnic Bida offers ND courses across its schools of Applied Sciences, Business and Management Studies, Engineering Technology, Information and Communication Technology, and Agricultural Technology.

Here are the general admission requirements for the ND programs:

UTME Entry Requirements

For admission via the UTME mode, a prospective candidate requires:

• Five credit passes at the Ordinary Level (O’Level) of WASCCE, NECO, NABTEB or equivalent, obtained in not more than two sittings. The subjects must include English Language, Mathematics and other subjects relevant to the proposed program of study.
• A minimum score of 150 in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) conducted by JAMB.
• JAMB subject combination relevant to the candidate’s chosen program.
• The minimum age requirement is 16 years at the time of admission.
• Possession of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) brochure for the current academic session.

Direct Entry Requirements

For admission via Direct Entry (DE), the requirements are:

• A relevant National Certificate (NC) obtained from a recognized institution, with a minimum of Lower Credit pass.
• Five credit passes at O’Level as stated above.
• Senior Secondary School Certificate with passes at maximum of two sittings.

Additional Requirements

Other requirements common to both UTME and DE candidates include:

• Payment of a non-refundable application fee as specified by the polytechnic.
• Attendance of screening exercise at a designated center on a specified date.
• Writing of aptitude test in relevant subjects.
• Submission of birth certificate or age declaration.

Admission Requirements for HND Programs

The Higher National Diploma (HND) is a two-year post-ND program also offered across departments in Federal Polytechnic Bida. Here are the admission requirements for HND programs:

UTME Entry Requirements

For admission into the HND program through UTME, the requirements are:

• Five credit passes at O’Level as stated above.
• A minimum of ten credit passes at the Advanced Level (A’Level) of WASCCE, NECO, NABTEB or equivalent, obtained in not more than two sittings. The subjects must include those relevant to the proposed program of study.
• A minimum score of 180 in UTME conducted by JAMB.
• JAMB subject combination related to the program the candidate is applying for.
• Minimum age of 18 years.
• Possession of original JAMB brochure and photocopies of credentials.

Direct Entry Requirements

To gain Direct Entry admission into the HND program, a candidate requires:

• A relevant Higher National Diploma (HND) or a National Certificate of Education (NCE) from an accredited institution, with a minimum of Lower Credit.
• Five credit passes at O’Level as stated earlier.
• Senior Secondary School Certificate with passes at maximum of two sittings.

Additional Requirements

Just as with the ND programs, candidates seeking HND admission must also:

• Pay the requisite application fee.
• Attend the screening exercise.
• Undertake the compulsory aptitude test.
• Submit documents including birth certificate/age declaration, and passport photographs among others.

Important Notes on Admission Requirements

While applying to Federal Polytechnic Bida, prospective candidates are advised to note the following:

• The specific requirements for admission into each program may vary slightly. Candidates are therefore advised to check the polytechnic website or prospectus for their department’s exact requirements before applying.
• Some departments may require a higher UTME score, different O’Level subject requirements, certain A’Level combinations, or relevant pre-requisites.
• For artisan-related courses like Welding & Fabrication Technology, Foundry Technology, Plumbing and Pipe-Fitting Technology and so on, the entry requirement is a minimum of Junior Secondary School Certification. Candidates may also be required to show evidence of prior learning experience.
• International applicants are required to submit additional documents including passport photocopy, English language proficiency certificate and others as stipulated by the polytechnic.
• Candidates awaiting results can apply but will need to present the actual results before being considered for admission.
• Applicants must strictly abide by application timelines stated by the polytechnic. Late submissions may not be considered.
• Admission into Federal Polytechnic Bida is highly competitive. Candidates who meet the cut-off requirements are not guaranteed admission.

How to Apply for Admission

To apply for admission into Federal Polytechnic Bida, prospective candidates should follow these steps:

Step 1: Consult the Requirements

• Check the polytechnic website or prospectus for your program’s exact requirements. Note important details like required subjects, minimum scores, relevant experience etc.

Step 2: Register for JAMB Examination

• All UTME applicants must register for and sit the JAMB-administered UTME examination within the stipulated period. Ensure you meet the cut-off mark for your program.

Step 3: Visit JAMB Website

• On the JAMB website, create a profile, fill in your details correctly and upload your passport photograph.

Step 4: Complete Online Application

• On the Federal Polytechnic Bida portal, create an account, select your preferred program/mode and complete the online application form with accurate details.

Step 5: Upload Required Documents

• Upload clear copies of your credentials including O’Level results, JAMB registration details, birth certificate, indigene certificate, and others as required in your department.

Step 6: Pay Application Fee

• Pay the stipulated application fee on the portal using your ATM card, bank transfer or at a designated bank.

Step 7: Submit Application

• Submit your application online and print out the summary sheet. Wait for communication on next steps.

Step 8: Check Admission Status

• Visit the polytechnic portal regularly to check if you have been offered provisional admission. Accept the offer, if successful, before the deadline.

By diligently following the above steps and meeting the stipulated admission requirements, prospective candidates can successfully secure admission into their desired program at Federal Polytechnic Bida.

Conclusion

The Federal Polytechnic Bida offers a comprehensive range of National Diploma and Higher National Diploma programs in diverse fields through its five schools. From applied sciences to agriculture, business to engineering, and information technology to the environment, the polytechnic equips students with technical skills and practical know-how for tertiary-level roles.

With over 150 well-equipped laboratories, workshops, studios and e-libraries, students undergo intensive hands-on training to complement lectures and tutorials. Mandatory industrial attachments provide further opportunity for real-world experience. The Polytechnic frequently upgrades its curriculum in line with industry needs and forges links with professional bodies to enhance graduate outcomes.

Given its reputation for excellence and its wide scope of programs, Federal Polytechnic Bida provides an excellent option for students seeking skill-oriented diploma-level education. For more details on specific admission requirements, applicants can visit the polytechnic’s website at https://eportal.fedpolybida.edu.ng/.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many schools are there in Federal Polytechnic Bida?

Federal Polytechnic Bida has five schools namely:

• School of Applied Sciences
• School of Business and Management Studies
• School of Engineering Technology
• School of Information and Communication Technology
• School of Agricultural Technology

What types of programs does the polytechnic offer?

The polytechnic offers both National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) programs across its five schools. These are skill-oriented programs at the technologist level.

What fields can I study at Federal Polytechnic Bida?

You can study a wide range of programs at Federal Polytechnic Bida including accounting, computer science, library science, nutrition, marketing, banking, business administration, architecture, civil engineering, mechatronics, mass communication, agricultural engineering and more.

Does the polytechnic provide hostel accommodation?

Yes, Federal Polytechnic Bida has several hostels for male and female students within the campus. New students are advised to apply for hostel early, while returning students have an allocation advantage.

Does Federal Polytechnic Bida accept UTME/JAMB?

Yes, the Polytechnic accepts candidates with a minimum of 5 credits including English and Mathematics in WASCE/SSCE/NECO as well as a decent UTME score for its ND programs.