Top 10 Cheapest UK Universities for Nigerians Studying Healthcare: A Guide for Aspiring Students in Nursing, Public Health, and Social Care
Top 10 Cheapest UK Universities for Healthcare Courses
Looking for affordable study options and expert guidance? Explore medical education opportunities in the UK with Anglo Healthcare.
The following universities are known for their competitive tuition fees for international students in various healthcare disciplines, making them excellent budget-friendly universities for Nigerian students seeking quality education at an affordable cost. The growing demand for public health professionals globally, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic, has further increased the appeal of these institutions for students aiming to enter this vital field. Public health is defined as the science and art of preventing disease, prolonging life, and promoting health through organised efforts and informed choices of society and communities.
1. University of Chester
Avg. International Tuition Fees (per year, £): ~£14,000 - £15,000
Notable Healthcare Courses Offered: Nursing, Sports Medicine, Stem Cells & Regenerative Medicine
Courses Starting: September, January
2. Teesside University
Avg. International Tuition Fees (per year, £): ~£15,000 - £16,500
Notable Healthcare Courses Offered: Nursing Studies (Adult), Health-related programs, Public Health
Courses Starting: September, January
3. Wrexham University
Avg. International Tuition Fees (per year, £): ~£12,500 - £16,000 (for most MSc programs)
Notable Healthcare Courses Offered: Nursing, Applied Health & Social Care
Courses Starting: September, January
4. University of Sunderland
Avg. International Tuition Fees (per year, £): ~£13,000 - £16,500
Notable Healthcare Courses Offered: Nursing, Public Health, Social Work
Courses Starting: September, January
5. University of Bedfordshire
Avg. International Tuition Fees (per year, £): ~£14,000 - £16,000 (estimated)
Notable Healthcare Courses Offered: Nursing, Public Health, Social Work, Healthcare Management
Courses Starting: September, January
6. Glasgow Caledonian University
Avg. International Tuition Fees (per year, £): ~£14,000 - £15,200
Notable Healthcare Courses Offered: Adult Nursing, Public Health
Courses Starting: September
7. University of Cumbria
Avg. International Tuition Fees (per year, £): ~£14,900 - £16,900 (for nursing/physiotherapy)
Notable Healthcare Courses Offered: Nursing, Physiotherapy, Diagnostic Radiography
Courses Starting: September, January
8. Buckinghamshire New University
Avg. International Tuition Fees (per year, £): ~£15,000 - £16,000
Notable Healthcare Courses Offered: Adult Nursing, Social Work
Courses Starting: September, January
9. Middlesex University London
Avg. International Tuition Fees (per year, £): ~£17,100 - £18,600 (for MSc courses)
Notable Healthcare Courses Offered: Adult Nursing, Mental Health, Social Work, Public Health
Courses Starting: September, January
10. University of East London (UEL)
Avg. International Tuition Fees (per year, £): ~£12,000 - £15,000 (general range)
Notable Healthcare Courses Offered: Nursing, Public Health, Social Work, Physiotherapy
Courses Starting: September, January
Each university offers a variety of healthcare programs with flexible courses starting in September and January, providing options to suit different schedules. Many of these universities also provide a wide range of opportunities and facilities, including modern labs, simulation suites, and support services, to attract international students. A minimum IELTS score of 6.0 is often required for admission to healthcare programs, with some programs requiring a minimum score of 6.5, ensuring students have the necessary English proficiency to succeed in their studies. Public health education prepares professionals to address complex health issues and includes core disciplines such as epidemiology, biostatistics, and health services administration, which are often integrated into healthcare programs. Effective public health initiatives require coordination among various stakeholders, including governmental and non-governmental organisations.
Nigerian Context: Healthcare Migration
The UK’s demand for healthcare professionals makes these universities a highly attractive option for Nigerian students in Lagos and beyond. If you want to learn more about medical education opportunities or need guidance, you can contact Anglo Healthcare. These budget-friendly universities not only offer affordable tuition but also provide practical experience through clinical placements in NHS hospitals, which are a key part of the curriculum. Early clinical training ensures that students gain hands-on experience from the early years of their studies, building strong foundations in patient care. Additionally, international students can generally work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays with a UK Student Visa, providing an opportunity to gain work experience and support living expenses. As part of the visa application process, international students must also have adequate health insurance coverage to ensure access to necessary healthcare services during their stay. The training of public health professionals typically includes practical and theoretical elements to prepare for addressing community health needs.
- NHS Recognition: Degrees in fields like nursing and social care from accredited UK institutions are recognised, allowing graduates to register with relevant professional bodies such as the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC). Earning a medical degree from UK medical schools is highly regarded and opens doors to global career opportunities.
- Post-Study Work: Upon registration with the appropriate professional body (like the NMC), graduates are eligible to work in the UK’s private and public sectors and can apply for a Skilled Worker Visa. Students benefit from employability skills and practical experience gained through clinical placements and training, enhancing their career prospects.
- Family Migration: A significant advantage for postgraduate students in specific healthcare fields like nursing is the possibility of bringing dependants (spouse and children) to the UK, who can often work full-time while the student studies.
When comparing costs, it’s important to note that different study styles—such as classroom-based courses versus clinical or laboratory-based programs—can affect tuition fees for Nigerian students. Additionally, universities outside major cities like London often have lower living costs, contributing to overall affordability for students. For international student budget UK considerations, living expenses are a key factor. The UK living costs per month for Nigerian students should be prepared for, typically averaging between £1,200 and £1,500, depending on the city and lifestyle preferences.
Financial Support for Nigerian Students Pursuing Healthcare Degrees in the UK
For many Nigerian students, the dream of studying healthcare in the UK can be challenged by the significant barrier of high tuition fees and living expenses. However, there are numerous financial support options available to help make this goal more attainable. Many UK universities, such as the University of Bedfordshire, University of West London, and University of Wolverhampton, offer a variety of scholarship opportunities and financial aid packages specifically designed for international students, including those from Nigeria. The University of West London provides strong nursing programs that are also budget-friendly. Scholarship opportunities often require submission of an application, a personal statement, and proof of academic achievements. Nigerian students usually need a minimum of five credits in relevant subjects in their WAEC or NECO results to meet the academic entry requirements. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition fees, making a degree in the UK more accessible.
University College Birmingham, located in the vibrant heart of Birmingham, is known for its practical, career-oriented vocational studies, which can be a budget-friendly choice for Nigerian students seeking hands-on healthcare training. Similarly, Southampton Solent University, established in 2004, offers specialised programs in marine and maritime education, while the Royal Agricultural University, the oldest agricultural college in the UK, provides unique courses in agriculture—both of which may offer lower tuition fees compared to other universities in the UK. The University of Bedfordshire also offers budget-friendly nursing programs suitable for international students, making it an attractive option for those seeking affordable healthcare education. The University of Wolverhampton is recognised for offering accessible education to international nursing students.
Nottingham Trent University, spread across three campuses, and Leeds Beckett University, with its strong focus on employability and practical experience, also present a range of healthcare courses with varying tuition fees. These universities are recognised for their high-quality education, advanced coursework, and commitment to student satisfaction. Teesside University stands out for its quality education and positive student feedback, while Coventry University boasts a TEF Gold Award for teaching excellence, making them attractive options for Nigerian students seeking affordable universities with strong healthcare programs.
The UK remains a top destination for international students due to its reputation for high-quality education and research ethics. However, it’s important to remember that living expenses can add to the overall cost of studying abroad. Living expenses for international students in the UK average between £1,200 and £1,500 per month, depending on the city and lifestyle. To help manage these costs, many universities offer financial aid, scholarships, and even Commonwealth scholarships, which can help cover both tuition fees and living expenses. Registered nurses and other healthcare professionals can also benefit from the UK’s strong reputation in healthcare education, which is highly valued by employers in the health sector both in the UK and other countries.
In addition to university-based scholarships, Nigerian students should explore external funding sources such as NHS bursaries and government-funded scholarships. Many UK universities offer merit-based scholarships, need-based grants, and Commonwealth scholarships to eligible Nigerian students. These can provide additional support for tuition fees and living expenses, making it more feasible to pursue a healthcare degree in the UK. For postgraduate Nigerian students, some of the most affordable options include the University of Sunderland, University of West London, and University of Wolverhampton, all of which offer strong programmes, practical experience, and excellent career opportunities in the health sector. The University of Sunderland also provides accessible nursing education to international students. Additionally, institutions like the University of Dundee, Swansea University, and Brighton and Sussex Medical School are noted for low-cost medical degrees and scholarship opportunities, further expanding the range of affordable options. Universities may also waive the English test requirement under certain conditions if students have a strong pass in English in WAEC or NECO exams, simplifying the application process for eligible candidates. Schools of public health offer professional degrees such as the Master of Public Health (MPH), which are oriented towards practice in public health settings, providing another pathway for students interested in healthcare.
To make the most of these affordable options, it is essential for Nigerian students to thoroughly research and compare tuition fees, living expenses, and scholarship availability across different UK universities. By planning ahead and taking advantage of available financial support, Nigerian students can overcome financial barriers and benefit from the UK’s high-quality education, advanced coursework, and strong focus on employability. A personal statement outlining motivation, relevant experience, and suitability for the healthcare field is crucial for admission, as it helps universities assess the applicant's commitment and potential. With determination and the right resources, students can achieve their goal of studying healthcare in the UK and open doors to rewarding career opportunities in the global health sector.