Every Course in the University is important: No one is more important than the other
By Prof. Oliver Onyemaeze Odikamnoro
Why should every student want to study Medicine, Pharmacy, Law or Accountancy? Are these the only courses that can guarantee success, wealth, social recognition and professional fulfilment?
Absolutely not!
One of the most unfortunate features of our educational system is the obsession with a few popular courses that society has labelled professional courses. Every year, thousands of students and their parents engage in a desperate struggle to secure admission into Medicine, Pharmacy, Law, Accountancy and a few other highly sought-after programmes.
These courses are undoubtedly important, prestigious and valuable. However, the problem arises when we begin to believe that they are superior to all other courses or that studying them automatically guarantees success in life.
Consequently, students with little aptitude for these programmes join the scramble simply because their parents, relatives, friends or society expect them to do so. Some spend years attempting to gain admission into their dream courses, while others become frustrated because they cannot secure admission.
Meanwhile, several equally valuable courses remain under-subscribed, and graduates with enormous potential are overlooked.
It is time to demystify professional courses and discover the professional opportunities hidden in every discipline!
- WHAT MAKES A COURSE PROFESSIONAL?
What exactly makes a course professional?
Is it the name of the course? Is it the prestige attached to it? Is it the professional uniform worn by its practitioners? Is it the financial reward associated with the occupation? Or is it the existence of a professional regulatory body?
The answer requires a broader understanding.
A profession generally involves specialised knowledge, structured training, defined competencies, ethical standards and the application of expertise to solve problems or provide valuable services to society. Some professions are regulated by law, and their practitioners must satisfy specific registration or licensing requirements.
Medicine, Pharmacy, Law, Engineering and Accountancy have well-established professional pathways.
However, the fact that some disciplines have more visible professional structures does not mean that other disciplines lack professional potential.
A graduate of History can become an accomplished archivist, heritage consultant, researcher or museum professional. A graduate of English can become a professional editor, technical writer, communications strategist or publishing entrepreneur. A graduate of Biology can become a biotechnology entrepreneur, environmental consultant or scientific communication specialist.
The possibilities are enormous.
We must, therefore, distinguish between a profession formally recognised and regulated by law and the broader process of developing professional competence in a field of study.
Not every degree automatically qualifies its holder for a regulated profession. Nevertheless, virtually every discipline can provide a foundation for specialised expertise, entrepreneurship, consultancy, innovation and meaningful service.
- LET US EXPLORE THE PROFESSIONAL POTENTIAL IN EVERY DISCIPLINE!
The following examples demonstrate how creativity, additional skills and purposeful application can transform seemingly ordinary courses into exciting career opportunities.
A. THE ARTS AND HUMANITIES
- English and Literary Studies
Some people assume that graduates of English are destined to become classroom teachers.
That assumption is outdated.
A graduate who develops excellent writing, communication, editing and digital storytelling skills can become a professional author, book editor, speechwriter, technical writer, content strategist, public relations consultant or publishing entrepreneur.
With additional training, such a graduate can specialise in grant writing, corporate communication, scientific writing or digital media.
Imagine a graduate who establishes a company that helps researchers prepare manuscripts, universities develop institutional publications and organisations communicate effectively with their audiences.
That is professionalism in action! - History and International Studies
History is not merely the study of past events. It develops analytical thinking, research, interpretation and the ability to understand how societies evolve.
A creative graduate can specialise in archival management, historical research, heritage tourism, museum services, cultural preservation, policy research or documentary production.
A graduate who understands the historical significance of a community can establish a heritage consultancy that helps preserve cultural assets while promoting tourism and local economic development.
- Philosophy
Philosophy develops logical reasoning, critical thinking, ethical analysis and the ability to examine complex questions.
These competencies are valuable in ethics consultancy, policy analysis, research, education, corporate governance and responsible artificial intelligence.
Imagine a philosophy graduate who specialises in AI ethics and advises organisations on fairness, accountability, privacy and responsible technology use.
Who would call that an ordinary career?
- Linguistics and Nigerian Languages
Our indigenous languages represent enormous cultural and economic resources.
Graduates can develop expertise in translation, interpretation, language documentation, publishing, localisation of digital products and language technology.
As artificial intelligence expands, specialists who can help computers understand and process African languages may find exciting opportunities in speech recognition, digital education and language preservation.
Our languages are not merely instruments of communication; they can become instruments of innovation and economic development. - Fine and Applied Arts
A graduate of Fine Arts can become a graphic designer, illustrator, animator, product designer, visual artist, art therapist where appropriately qualified, or creative entrepreneur.
With digital skills, an artist can serve clients across the world without relocating from Nigeria.
A talented graduate who combines artistic ability with branding, digital illustration and business management can build a creative enterprise employing other young people.
The difference lies in recognising the commercial and social value of artistic talent.
B. THE SCIENCES - Biology
Biology is much more than the study of living organisms.
Its professional applications include biotechnology, environmental monitoring, conservation, laboratory research, science education, biological data analysis and agricultural innovation.
Depending on additional qualifications, accreditation and applicable regulations, biology graduates can develop careers in specialised laboratory services, environmental consultancy and biological research.
A biology graduate who acquires molecular biology, bioinformatics or biotechnology skills can position themselves for emerging opportunities in research and industry. - Zoology and Entomology
What can someone do with a degree in Zoology or Entomology?
Consider livestock production, wildlife conservation, biodiversity assessment, insect identification, vector surveillance, pest management and ecological research.
A specialist in entomology can contribute to mosquito control, agricultural pest management, environmental health programmes and integrated vector management.
In a country battling malaria and other vector-borne diseases, these skills are far from ordinary. - Parasitology and Microbiology
These disciplines are essential to public health, food safety, environmental sanitation and disease prevention.
Their applications include parasite surveillance, microbial research, water-quality investigations, infection prevention, food microbiology and environmental monitoring.
With the appropriate additional training, laboratory competencies and regulatory approvals, graduates can build careers in research institutions, public health programmes, diagnostic services and environmental health consultancy.
A graduate who combines parasitology with geographical information systems, epidemiology and data analysis can help identify disease hotspots and inform targeted interventions.
This is how a seemingly narrow discipline can become a powerful instrument for solving major public health problems. - Mathematics and Statistics
Mathematics and Statistics are among the most versatile foundations for modern careers.
Their applications include data science, actuarial analysis, financial modelling, operations research, artificial intelligence, quality assurance and risk assessment.
A statistics graduate who masters statistical software, programming and data visualisation can help hospitals analyse patient outcomes, businesses forecast demand and governments evaluate development programmes.
The ability to turn numbers into decisions is a highly valuable professional asset. - Physics and Chemistry
Physics graduates can develop expertise in instrumentation, renewable energy, scientific computing, materials science and industrial measurement.
Chemistry graduates can pursue opportunities in materials research, industrial chemistry, environmental analysis, quality assurance and product development.
Specialised training and the relevant regulatory requirements may be necessary for particular roles.
A chemistry graduate who develops expertise in environmental analysis, for example, can contribute to monitoring industrial pollution and assessing the quality of water and other environmental resources. - Computer Science
Computer Science is already recognised as a gateway to numerous technology careers.
However, possessing a degree alone does not guarantee professional competence.
The graduate who develops practical skills in software engineering, cybersecurity, cloud computing, artificial intelligence or data engineering is better positioned to solve real-world problems.
A computer scientist who builds an affordable digital platform for rural health workers, farmers or small businesses has transformed academic knowledge into a useful professional service.
C. THE SOCIAL SCIENCES AND MANAGEMENT SCIENCES - Sociology and Anthropology
These disciplines help us understand human behaviour, social relationships, cultural practices and community development.
Graduates can specialise in social research, monitoring and evaluation, community engagement, development consultancy, market research and social impact assessment.
A graduate who understands the cultural beliefs influencing immunisation uptake, sanitation practices or maternal healthcare can help design interventions that communities are more likely to accept.
That is an important professional contribution. - Political Science and Public Administration
These disciplines provide foundations for governance, public policy, administration and institutional development.
Graduates can develop careers in policy research, legislative support, public sector management, project coordination, governance consultancy and public affairs.
A political science graduate who masters policy analysis, data interpretation and report writing can help organisations evaluate public programmes and recommend evidence-based improvements. - Economics
Economics is not limited to teaching or working in a bank.
Its applications include development planning, economic research, market analysis, financial modelling, public policy and programme evaluation.
A graduate who specialises in health economics, for example, can help governments and healthcare organisations assess the costs, benefits and affordability of health interventions.
Such expertise can contribute to better decisions about the allocation of scarce resources. - Accounting and Business Administration
These disciplines already have clear professional applications, but their potential extends beyond conventional employment.
Graduates can develop expertise in financial analysis, business consulting, internal controls, entrepreneurship, project management and business process improvement.
An accountant who understands digital financial systems, forensic accounting and data analytics can offer specialised services to businesses and institutions.
A business administration graduate who develops strong skills in operations, customer relations and digital marketing can build and manage a successful enterprise. - Marketing
Marketing is much more than persuading people to buy products.
It involves understanding consumer behaviour, developing brands, analysing markets and creating value.
A marketing graduate who masters digital advertising, customer analytics, market research and strategic communication can serve businesses, public institutions and non-governmental organisations.
A graduate who helps small Nigerian businesses reach customers beyond their immediate communities is applying professional knowledge to economic development. - Geography and Environmental Management
Geography is often misunderstood as simply learning about places, maps and physical features.
Modern geography has important applications in geographical information systems (GIS), remote sensing, urban planning, disaster management, climate adaptation and environmental assessment.
A graduate who combines geography with GIS and spatial data analysis can help identify flood-prone communities, map healthcare facilities, monitor land-use changes and support urban development.
These are practical skills with significant economic and social value. - THE SECRET: HOW DO WE PROFESSIONALISE A COURSE?
The examples above lead us to a fundamental question: How can graduates transform the knowledge acquired from their courses into professional opportunities?
I propose the following practical steps.
FIRST: IDENTIFY THE PROBLEMS YOUR DISCIPLINE CAN SOLVE.
Every discipline has something valuable to offer society.
Ask yourself:
What problems can my knowledge help solve?
Who needs this knowledge?
What services can I provide?
What products can I develop?
What existing processes can I improve?
Do not begin by asking only, “Where can I get a job?”
Also ask, “What problem can I solve, and who will value my solution?”
SECOND: IDENTIFY AND DEVELOP YOUR INNATE POTENTIALS.
Every individual possesses a unique combination of interests, talents, abilities and experiences.
Some people are gifted in writing. Others excel in analysis, communication, observation, design, negotiation, leadership, teaching or practical problem-solving.
Your university degree provides a foundation, but your personal strengths can help determine the direction in which you specialise.
A graduate of History who has exceptional writing ability may become a compelling historical author.
Another who enjoys organising information may specialise in archival management. A third who loves travel and cultural exploration may develop expertise in heritage tourism.
The same degree can produce different professional outcomes because individuals possess different abilities and ambitions.
THIRD: ACQUIRE COMPLEMENTARY SKILLS
This is one of the most important secrets of professional success.
Do not rely exclusively on the knowledge acquired in the classroom.
Combine your degree with practical, market-relevant competencies.
For example:
Biology + Data Analysis = Biological Data Specialist.
Geography + GIS = Geospatial Analyst.
English + Digital Communication = Content Strategist.
History + Archival Skills = Archives Professional.
Sociology + Research Methods = Social Research Consultant.
Economics + Programming = Economic Data Analyst.
Chemistry + Quality Management = Quality Assurance Specialist.
Mathematics + Machine Learning = Data Science Professional.
Public Health + Epidemiology = Public Health Research Specialist.
Business Administration + Digital Marketing = Digital Business Consultant.
These combinations are illustrative career pathways, not automatic professional qualifications. Some positions require additional degrees, supervised training, certification or statutory registration.
Nevertheless, the underlying principle remains valid: the right combination of knowledge and practical skills can make a graduate more valuable and distinctive.
FOURTH: DEVELOP A SPECIALISATION.
It is not enough to say, “I studied Biology,” “I studied English,” or “I studied Economics.”
What can you do particularly well within your discipline?
A graduate of English might specialise in technical writing. A biologist might focus on biodiversity conservation. An economist might specialise in health financing. A sociologist might focus on monitoring and evaluation.
Specialisation helps people understand the particular problems you can solve.
You gradually move from being one graduate among thousands to becoming a person with identifiable expertise
FIFTH: BUILD A PORTFOLIO OF PRACTICAL ACHIEVEMENTS.
Employers and clients are often interested in what you can actually do.
A graduate of Computer Science can develop software projects. A graduate of English can compile writing samples. A Geography graduate can demonstrate GIS mapping projects. A graduate of Marketing can present successful campaigns.
A science graduate can participate in supervised research, document laboratory competencies and contribute to scientific publications.
Your portfolio becomes evidence of your abilities.
Do not wait until you have secured employment before beginning to demonstrate your competence.
SIXTH: EMBRACE ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND INNOVATION.
Professionalism is not limited to paid employment.
You can establish a consultancy, develop a product, provide specialised services or build an enterprise around your knowledge.
A graduate of Agriculture can establish an agribusiness.
A graduate of Fine Arts can build a design studio. A graduate of Statistics can develop data-analysis services. A graduate of Linguistics can establish a translation and localisation business.
The important thing is to identify a genuine need, develop a reliable solution and deliver value ethically
SEVENTH: DEVELOP PROFESSIONAL ETHICS AND EXCELLENCE.
A person does not become a professional simply by acquiring a certificate, opening an office or adopting an impressive title.
Professionalism involves competence, integrity, accountability, discipline, reliability and respect for those who depend on your services.
A highly skilled graduate who cannot keep commitments, communicate effectively or deliver quality work may struggle professionally.
Conversely, a competent, ethical and innovative graduate can earn a strong reputation over time.
Where a field is regulated, professional registration and compliance with the relevant laws remain essential.
- UNIVERSITIES MUST ALSO CHANGE THEIR APPROACH.
While encouraging students to explore the potential of their disciplines, we must acknowledge the responsibilities of our universities and other educational institutions.
Our universities should not merely produce graduates who know the theories of their subjects.
They should also help produce graduates who can apply those theories to solve practical problems.
Curricula should incorporate relevant practical experiences, digital competencies, entrepreneurship, research, communication, problem-solving and industry engagement.
Departments should actively demonstrate the career possibilities associated with their programmes.
Students studying less popular courses should have opportunities to undertake internships, participate in research projects, develop professional networks and interact with successful practitioners.
Universities should also encourage interdisciplinary learning.
Imagine the opportunities created when a biologist collaborates with a computer scientist, an economist works with a public health specialist, or a linguist partners with an artificial intelligence researcher.
Some of the most exciting innovations emerge when different disciplines work together.
The challenge is not simply to produce more graduates. It is to produce graduates who can demonstrate competence, create value and adapt to changing societal needs.
- PARENTS AND STUDENTS MUST CHANGE THEIR MINDSETS.
Dear parents, your child does not have to study Medicine or science to make you proud.
A student who has the aptitude, interest and commitment to study Medicine should be encouraged to pursue that ambition. The same applies to Pharmacy, Law, Engineering and other established professional pathways.
However, forcing a child into a course for which they have little interest or aptitude may create years of frustration.
Instead, help your children identify their strengths, understand their interests and explore the opportunities available in different disciplines.
Dear students, do not choose a course merely because your friends are applying for it or because society considers it prestigious.
Ask yourself whether you have the interest, aptitude and willingness to develop the competencies required for that field.
Research its career opportunities. Speak to practitioners. Understand the additional skills and qualifications you may need.
Most importantly, look beyond the conventional career paths.
A course that is unpopular today may become a valuable foundation for an emerging opportunity tomorrow, particularly when combined with relevant skills and innovation.
Do not despise a discipline simply because it is not fashionable.
Your degree should not become a limitation on your imagination.
- THE WORLD IS CHANGING: CREATE YOUR OWN PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY!
We live in an age when knowledge, technology, creativity and specialised skills are reshaping the world of work.
Some traditional occupations are changing, while new opportunities are emerging at the intersection of disciplines.
The future will reward people who can learn continuously, adapt to new circumstances, communicate effectively and solve problems.
Your course of study is important, but it is not the only determinant of your professional future.
What you learn beyond the classroom, the problems you solve, the relationships you build, the standards you maintain and the innovations you introduce can make a significant difference.
Two graduates may possess identical certificates but achieve very different outcomes because one stops at obtaining the degree while the other continues to develop practical skills, explore opportunities and create value.
This is not to suggest that success is determined by individual effort alone. Access to funding, employment opportunities, infrastructure, mentorship and institutional support also matters.
Nevertheless, developing your capabilities can expand the opportunities available to you.
- MY FINAL MESSAGE: THERE IS PROFESSIONALISM IN EVERY DISCIPLINE!
Let us stop measuring the worth of academic disciplines exclusively by admission cut-off marks, public popularity, the prestige of their titles or the salaries associated with their most visible occupations.
Medicine is valuable. Pharmacy is valuable. Law is valuable. Accountancy is valuable.
So are Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, English, History, Philosophy, Sociology, Geography, Fine Arts, Linguistics, Economics, Political Science and numerous other disciplines.
Every discipline represents a body of knowledge that can be applied creatively to meet human needs.
The real question is not simply, “What course did you study?”
The more important questions are:
What can you do with the knowledge you acquired?
What additional skills have you developed?
What problems can you solve?
What value can you create?
How can you use your natural abilities and creativity to distinguish yourself?
These are the questions that should guide our conversations about education, careers and professional development.
I challenge our universities, parents, students, career counsellors and policymakers to rethink the way we perceive academic disciplines.
Let us help students discover their talents rather than merely follow the crowd.
Let our universities promote practical competence alongside academic knowledge. Let our graduates become innovators, consultants, researchers, entrepreneurs and problem-solvers.
Above all, let us understand that a university degree is not the final destination. It is a foundation upon which a person can build a meaningful and productive career.
You do not necessarily have to study the most popular course to become a successful professional. You need to discover your potential, develop your competence, identify a need and apply your knowledge creatively and ethically.
Remember this:
A course may be ordinary in the eyes of society, but the person who applies it extraordinarily can become exceptional.
Do not merely study a course. Develop expertise in it. Do not merely acquire a certificate. Build competence. Do not merely search for opportunities. Learn to create value.
That is how we demystify professional courses.
That is how we unlock the professional potential in every discipline.
And that is how we begin to transform our graduates from job seekers into skilled professionals, innovators and creators of opportunities.
Prof. Oliver Onyemaeze Odikamnoro
Distinguished Professor of Public Health Parasitology
Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki, Nigeria.
