One of Nigeria’s top universities, the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT), is well-known for its strong research culture and reputation for academic brilliance. Offering a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs, the university, which is centrally located in Rivers State, draws students from all around Nigeria and beyond. When selecting UNIPORT, prospective students and their families find that knowing the tuition and other related costs is one of the most important factors. In order to shed light on the financial obligations necessary for a fruitful academic career, this article explores the breakdown of UNIPORT’s school fees for both undergraduate and graduate students.
Contents
Overview of UNIPORT
Established in 1975 as University College, Port Harcourt, UNIPORT attained full university status in 1977. The institution has grown over the years, becoming a hub of academic excellence with a diverse range of faculties including Humanities, Social Sciences, Engineering, Management Sciences, Health Sciences, and Education, among others. UNIPORT is also well-regarded for its strong postgraduate programs and research initiatives.
The university operates a flexible fee structure, with variations depending on the faculty, program, and level of study. Understanding these differences is crucial for budgeting and planning an academic career at UNIPORT.
Undergraduate School Fees at UNIPORT
The undergraduate fee structure at UNIPORT varies based on the faculty and program of study. Generally, fees are categorized into:
- Freshers (New Students)
- Returning Students
- Final Year Students
Breakdown of Undergraduate Fees
- Acceptance Fee:
Once offered admission, new students are required to pay an acceptance fee to secure their spot. As of the latest updates, the acceptance fee at UNIPORT is N30,000. This is a one-time payment and non-refundable. - School Fees by Faculty:
- Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences:
- New Students: N92,150
- Returning Students: N45,000 – N60,000
- Faculty of Engineering:
- New Students: N125,500
- Returning Students: N55,000 – N70,000
- Faculty of Management Sciences:
- New Students: N92,150
- Returning Students: N50,000 – N65,000
- Faculty of Health Sciences (Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy):
- New Students: N150,000 – N190,000
- Returning Students: N85,000 – N120,000
- Faculty of Education:
- New Students: N92,150
- Returning Students: N45,000 – N60,000
- Faculty of Science:
- New Students: N125,500
- Returning Students: N55,000 – N70,000
- Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences:
- Additional Charges:
- Medical Fee: N10,000
- Student Union Fee: N2,500
- Development Levy: N10,000
- ICT Levy: N5,000
These charges might slightly vary depending on the department and specific course requirements.
Final Year Students
Final year students are often required to pay additional fees for clearance and convocation-related expenses. This may include:
- Project Supervision Fee: N10,000 – N20,000
- Convocation Fee: N15,000
- Graduation Gown Rental: N5,000
Postgraduate School Fees at UNIPORT
The University of Port Harcourt offers a broad spectrum of postgraduate programs, including Postgraduate Diplomas (PGD), Master’s degrees (MSc, MA, MBA, MPA), and Doctorate degrees (Ph.D.). Fees for postgraduate studies at UNIPORT are significantly higher than undergraduate fees and vary depending on the program and faculty.
Breakdown of Postgraduate Fees
- Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) Programs:
- Acceptance Fee: N30,000
- Tuition: N150,000 – N200,000 per session
- Administrative Charges: N20,000 – N30,000
- Master’s Degree Programs (MSc, MA, MBA, MPA):
- Acceptance Fee: N30,000
- Tuition:
- Arts and Social Sciences: N180,000 – N220,000 per session
- Science and Engineering: N200,000 – N250,000 per session
- MBA/MPA: N250,000 – N300,000 per session
- Research/Project Fee: N50,000 – N70,000
- Library and ICT Fees: N15,000 – N25,000
- Doctorate Degree Programs (Ph.D.):
- Acceptance Fee: N30,000
- Tuition: N250,000 – N350,000 per session
- Research Grant Fee: N70,000 – N100,000
- Seminar and Thesis Submission Fees: N50,000 – N80,000
- External Defense Fee: N30,000 – N50,000
Payment Methods and Guidelines
UNIPORT has adopted modern payment methods to ease the fee payment process. All payments are typically made through the university’s official online portal or designated banks. Here are the general steps:
- Visit the UNIPORT Student Portal:
Navigate to the official website and log in with your student credentials. - Generate Payment Invoice:
Select the appropriate fee category (acceptance, tuition, etc.) and generate an invoice. - Make Payment:
Payment can be made via online transfer using debit cards or at designated banks using the invoice number. - Confirm Payment:
After payment, students are required to confirm the transaction on the portal and print the payment receipt.
It’s essential to ensure all payments are made through official channels to avoid fraud or misplacement of funds.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
For students concerned about affordability, UNIPORT offers several scholarship opportunities and financial aid programs. These include:
- Federal Government Scholarships: Available to top-performing students.
- State and Corporate Scholarships: Sponsored by oil companies and state governments, especially for students in the Niger Delta region.
- Internal Scholarships: UNIPORT provides merit-based scholarships to students with outstanding academic performance.
Students are encouraged to regularly check the university’s scholarship board and apply for relevant opportunities.
The University of Port Harcourt remains a top choice for students seeking quality education in Nigeria. While the cost of tuition and other fees can be substantial, the investment in education at UNIPORT is worthwhile, given the university’s reputation and academic standards. By understanding the fee structure for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs, students and their families can make informed decisions and adequately plan for the financial commitments ahead.
For the most up-to-date information on fees and payment processes, students should always consult the official UNIPORT website or contact the university’s admissions office.
Best Dishes in Port Harcourt
In addition to its thriving oil business and exciting nightlife, Port Harcourt, the capital of Rivers State, Nigeria, is well-known for its extensive culinary legacy. The city, which is lovingly referred to as the “Garden City,” has a wide variety of cuisines that represent the customs and cultural diversity of its residents. The cuisine of Port Harcourt is a fascinating fusion of flavors, textures, and scents that enthralls both locals and tourists. It includes everything from fresh seafood to filling traditional soups. This article introduces you to some of Port Harcourt’s greatest culinary creations.
1. Bole and Fish
If there’s one dish that truly represents the heart and soul of Port Harcourt, it’s Bole and Fish. This popular street food consists of roasted plantains (bole) served with spicy grilled fish, usually mackerel or croaker, and a rich pepper sauce made from palm oil, fresh peppers, onions, and spices. The plantains are typically roasted over an open flame, giving them a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the well-seasoned fish. Bole and Fish is more than just food in Port Harcourt; it’s a cultural experience. You’ll find vendors on nearly every street corner, with locals gathering around makeshift grills, savoring this delicacy with a cold drink in hand.
2. Native Soup (Ofe Nsala)
Another beloved dish in Port Harcourt is Native Soup, commonly known as Ofe Nsala or White Soup. This light, peppery soup is traditionally made with catfish or goat meat, thickened with yam, and flavored with uziza leaves and local spices. Unlike other Nigerian soups, it doesn’t contain palm oil, giving it a distinct light color and a refreshing taste. Native Soup is often served with pounded yam or fufu, making it a hearty meal that’s both satisfying and delicious. It’s a must-try for anyone looking to experience the authentic flavors of the South-South region.
3. Edikang Ikong Soup
While this dish originates from the Efik people of Cross River and Akwa Ibom states, Edikang Ikong Soup is immensely popular in Port Harcourt due to the city’s cultural diversity. This rich, nutritious soup is made from a combination of fluted pumpkin leaves (ugu) and waterleaf, cooked with assorted meats, dried fish, and periwinkle. Palm oil is used generously, giving the soup its vibrant red color and rich texture. Edikang Ikong is often enjoyed with eba, pounded yam, or fufu and is celebrated not just for its taste but also for its health benefits, as it’s packed with vitamins and minerals.
4. Afia Efere (White Soup)
Afia Efere, similar to Ofe Nsala, is another variation of white soup popular in Port Harcourt. This Calabar delicacy is typically prepared with goat meat, stockfish, and sometimes fresh fish. It’s flavored with local spices, including uda (Negro pepper) and utazi leaves, which add a slightly bitter taste that balances the richness of the meat. The soup is usually thickened with ground yam or cocoyam and is best enjoyed with swallow foods like pounded yam or semovita. Afia Efere is a favorite at traditional events and family gatherings, reflecting the communal spirit of Port Harcourt.
5. Seafood Okra Soup
Given Port Harcourt’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, it’s no surprise that seafood plays a significant role in the city’s cuisine. Seafood Okra Soup is a delightful dish made with fresh okra, shrimps, crabs, periwinkle, and fish, all simmered in a savory broth. The slimy texture of the okra, combined with the rich, briny flavors of the seafood, makes this soup a unique culinary experience. It’s often served with garri, fufu, or pounded yam. The freshness of the ingredients and the robust flavors make Seafood Okra Soup a standout dish in Port Harcourt.
6. Pepper Soup
Pepper Soup is a beloved dish across Nigeria, but in Port Harcourt, it takes on a special significance. Made with a variety of meats or fish, this spicy broth is infused with local spices like calabash nutmeg (ehuru), uziza seeds, and scent leaves. The soup is light yet packed with intense flavors, making it both comforting and invigorating. Fish Pepper Soup, especially when made with catfish, is particularly popular in Port Harcourt due to the city’s access to fresh seafood. It’s often enjoyed as an appetizer or as a remedy for the rainy season chills, accompanied by agidi (corn pudding) or white rice.
7. Jollof Rice with Periwinkle
While Jollof Rice is a staple across West Africa, the Port Harcourt version comes with a unique twist – periwinkle. This small, flavorful sea snail is added to the rice, infusing it with a distinct briny taste that complements the rich tomato-based sauce. The dish is often served with fried plantains, grilled chicken, or fish. The inclusion of periwinkle reflects Port Harcourt’s coastal influence and adds a delicious, unexpected element to this classic dish. Whether at a party or a family gathering, Jollof Rice with Periwinkle is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
8. Ukodo (Yam Pepper Soup)
Ukodo, or Yam Pepper Soup, is a hearty dish that combines the comforting qualities of yam with the spicy kick of pepper soup spices. Typically made with goat meat or fish, this dish is both filling and flavorful, making it a popular choice for lunch or dinner. The yams absorb the rich, spicy broth, creating a dish that’s both warming and satisfying. Ukodo is especially popular during festive seasons and traditional ceremonies, reflecting the deep-rooted culinary traditions of Port Harcourt.
9. Abacha (African Salad)
Abacha, also known as African Salad, is a popular street food in Port Harcourt. Made from dried, shredded cassava, it’s mixed with palm oil, crayfish, pepper, and traditional seasonings, then garnished with onions, garden eggs, and sometimes fish or kpomo (cow skin). The dish is served cold and is perfect for hot days when you want something light yet flavorful. Abacha is often enjoyed with palm wine or a chilled beverage, making it a favorite at social gatherings and outdoor events.
10. Fisherman Soup
Another seafood delicacy, Fisherman Soup, is a hearty, spicy soup packed with fresh fish, crabs, prawns, and periwinkle. It’s a dish that truly showcases the abundance of the sea, with a rich broth flavored by local spices, scent leaves, and a hint of palm oil. Fisherman Soup is often served with starch, fufu, or pounded yam, and it’s a favorite among seafood lovers in Port Harcourt. The freshness of the ingredients and the robust flavors make this dish a must-try for anyone visiting the city.
Conclusion
Port Harcourt’s culinary scene is a reflection of its rich cultural heritage and coastal geography. From the smoky flavors of Bole and Fish to the hearty, spicy warmth of Fisherman Soup, the city offers a diverse array of dishes that cater to every palate. Whether you’re a lover of seafood, traditional soups, or street food, Port Harcourt has something to delight your taste buds. So, the next time you find yourself in the Garden City, be sure to indulge in these mouth-watering dishes and experience the vibrant flavors that make Port Harcourt a true culinary destination.
