Courses You Should Think Twice Before Applying For (With Examples): Choosing a course of study is one of the most important decisions a student makes. It can shape your career path, lifestyle, and even your personality over time. While it’s tempting to go for a course because it’s popular, sounds prestigious, or your parents recommended it, the truth is that not every course is for everyone.
Some courses are demanding mentally, physically, or emotionally and may not suit your strengths, personality, or long-term goals. This doesn’t mean the courses are bad, but you should think twice before applying if you don’t have the passion, resilience, or readiness to handle what comes with them.
Below are some courses you should pause and consider carefully before applying, with real-world examples of what to expect.
1. Law
Law is one of the most respected courses in Nigeria and across the world. But make no mistake it’s not for the faint-hearted. Law demands critical thinking, public speaking skills, mental stamina, and a thick skin for arguments and long reading hours.
Why You Should Think Twice:
- If you don’t enjoy reading large volumes of text daily.
- If you’re not good at debating or defending your opinion.
- Or If you hate confrontation or high-pressure situations.
Example:
A student may love justice and fairness but realize during their third year that the pressure of moot courts, public speaking, and the endless legal precedents are too overwhelming. Many law students discover too late that passion alone isn’t enough without the grit.
2. Medicine and Surgery
Medicine is a noble and rewarding profession but it’s not just about wearing a lab coat or being called “Doctor.” It’s physically, emotionally, and academically draining. From long hours of study to night shifts during clinical postings, medicine is a lifetime commitment.
Why You Should Think Twice:
- If you’re not ready to sacrifice years of your youth to rigorous study and training.
- If you easily get overwhelmed by stress or blood-related situations.
- Or If you are choosing it just for money or parental pressure.
Example:
Some students realize after two years in medical school that they are only hanging on because of their parents’ expectations. A classmate who failed MBBS exams three times ended up switching to Nursing a better fit for her mindset and strength.
3. Engineering
Engineering is a broad field with promising careers in civil, mechanical, electrical, and more. But many students rush into it without understanding the heavy load of mathematics, physics, and practical problem-solving it demands.
Why You Should Think Twice:
If you’re weak in physics or math and not ready to improve significantly.
If you dislike technical drawing, practicals, and long calculation-based exams.
If your are chasing it for prestige alone.
Example:
A student in Electrical Engineering spent his entire second year retaking courses he failed in his first. He loved gadgets but had no interest in the mathematical side. By his third year, he regretted not choosing Computer Science instead.
4. Mass Communication
Mass Communication sounds like a fun and vibrant course and it can be. But it also demands confidence, creativity, boldness, and strong public engagement. Many students think it’s an “easy” option but get shocked when they’re asked to present news on camera or host a live radio show.
Why You Should Think Twice:
- If you are extremely shy or uncomfortable with public speaking.
- If you are not interested in writing, editing, or media production.
- Or If you can’t handle feedback or public attention.
Example:
A student choose Mass Comm because he didn’t want anything “technical.” But during a class presentation that was aired live on the school’s radio station, he froze on air. It was then he realized media isn’t for everyone.
5. Architecture
Architecture combines art, science, and mathematics but it also comes with intense deadlines, sleepless nights designing models, and complex software. Some students go in thinking it’s just about drawing or designing beautiful buildings, but it’s much more technical.
Why You Should Think Twice:
- If you struggle with time management or consistent work pressure.
- If you don’t like technical drawing, design software, or long studio hours.
- If you’re just “good at art” but not at math or technical concepts.
Example:
A student loved sketching and thought architecture was a perfect match. But after spending 3 nights without sleep working on a single model and still getting harsh feedback, he reconsidered his choice.
6. Theatre Arts / Performing Arts
It’s a common myth that Theatre Arts is an “easy” or “fun” course. In truth, it requires physical energy, emotional depth, self-confidence, and the ability to handle rejection or criticism.
Why You Should Think Twice:
- If you are not comfortable performing in front of crowds.
- If you are sensitive to criticism or don’t like unpredictable schedules.
- Or If you think it is only about acting (it’s broader includes directing, stage management, etc.)
Example:
A student who joined Theatre Arts thinking she’d just act in campus dramas ended up dropping out after the pressure of multiple auditions, public rehearsals, and backstage work became too much.
7. Nursing
Nursing is not just a backup for medicine. It’s a demanding profession that requires compassion, resilience, and physical stamina. Clinical postings, patient care, and night duties are not easy tasks.
Why You Should Think Twice:
- If you’re uncomfortable with hospitals, blood, or medical emergencies.
- If you’re not emotionally strong enough to care for terminal patients.
- If you’re in it just for job security and not passion.
Example:
A student fainted during her first ward posting while assisting in dressing a wound. She later admitted that although she admired nurses, she wasn’t mentally or physically prepared for the real work.
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Conclusion
Every course has its own challenges. Before applying, ask yourself these honest questions:
- Do I truly understand what this course involves?
- Do I have the right mindset and skills for it?
Am I choosing it out of passion, or pressure?
There is nothing wrong with you dreaming big, but dreams must be backed by readiness and strength. It’s better to rethink your decision now than to regret it halfway through the journey. After all, the goal is not just to start a course but to finish strong and enjoy the career that follows.
Bonus Tips:
Check the school’s cut-off mark before you apply. For example, Medicine and Surgery often requires 280+, (300+ for Some Universities) in JAMB, while courses like Theatre Arts may start from 180 or 200 depending on the school.
Watch out for deadlines.
Post-UTME Screening and Direct Entry forms for most schools come out between July and October. Always visit your school’s website or JAMB CAPS portal for updates.
Follow your passion, but use wisdom.
- If you truly love the course but you know it’s challenging, I will advise you prepare yourself on-time. Even start now to read your Books, Join tutorials, speak with senior students, and plan ahead.
