Covenant University is a leading private Christian university located in Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria. Founded in 2002, the university has quickly established itself as a premier institution of higher learning, known for its commitment to academic excellence, research, and innovation. With a mission to raise a new generation of leaders who will positively impact their communities and the world at large, Covenant University offers a unique blend of academic rigor, spiritual growth, and entrepreneurial development.
In this comprehensive guide, we University of Valencia will explore everything you need to know about Covenant University, from its history and mission to its academic programs, campus life, research initiatives, and graduate outcomes. Whether you are a prospective student, parent, or simply curious about what makes Covenant University stand out, this guide will provide you with valuable insights and information to help you make an informed decision about your future.
History and Mission
Founding and Vision
Covenant University was founded on October 21, 2002, by Dr. David Oyedepo, the Chancellor of the university and the Presiding Bishop of the Living Faith Church Worldwide (Winners’ Chapel International). The vision for the university was born out of a divine mandate to raise a new generation of leaders who will be equipped with the knowledge, skills, and character to transform their communities and the world.
The university’s mission statement encapsulates this vision: “To create knowledge and restore the dignity of the black man via a Human Development Total Man Concept driven curriculum employing innovative, leading-edge teaching and learning methods, research, and professional services that promote integrated, life-applicable, life-transforming education relevant to the context of Science, Technology, and Human Capacity Building.”
Christian Ethos and Core Values
As a Christian university, Covenant University is committed to integrating faith and learning in all aspects of its educational program. The university’s core values, which guide its operations and shape its culture, include:
- Spirituality
- Possibility Mentality
- Capacity Building
- Integrity
- Responsibility
- Diligence
- Sacrifice
These values are instilled in students through various spiritual activities, such as chapel services, devotionals, and faith-based organizations, as well as through the curriculum and extracurricular programs.
Accreditation and Rankings
Covenant University is fully accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC), the regulatory body for universities in Nigeria. The university has also received international recognition for its academic excellence and research output. In the 2021 Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings, Covenant University was ranked among the top 600 universities in the world and the top 10 universities in Africa.
The university has also consistently ranked among the top 3 universities in Nigeria in various national and international rankings, such as the Webometrics Ranking of World Universities and the Nigerian University System Rankings.
Location and Campus
Ota Campus
Covenant University’s main campus is located in Ota, a bustling town in Ogun State, Nigeria, about 40 kilometers from Lagos, the country’s commercial capital. The campus is situated on a sprawling 524-hectare site, which provides ample space for academic buildings, residential facilities, recreational areas, and future expansion.
The campus features state-of-the-art facilities and infrastructure, including:
- Academic buildings with modern classrooms, lecture theaters, and laboratories
- University library with extensive print and electronic resources
- Residential halls for undergraduate and postgraduate students
- Cafeterias and food courts
- Sports facilities, including a football field, basketball courts, and a gymnasium
- Health center with 24-hour medical services
- Chapel for worship services and spiritual activities
The campus is designed to provide a conducive environment for learning, research, and personal growth, with well-maintained gardens, walkways, and green spaces that promote a serene and picturesque atmosphere.
Accessibility and Transportation
Covenant University is easily accessible by road, with several major highways connecting Ota to Lagos and other parts of Nigeria. The university is about a 30-minute drive from the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, one of Nigeria’s busiest highways, and is serviced by various public and private transportation options, including buses, taxis, and ride-hailing services.
The university also operates a shuttle service that provides transportation for students and staff within the campus and to nearby locations, such as banks, shopping centers, and places of worship.
Colleges and Departments
Covenant University offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across four colleges, each comprising several departments and research centers. The colleges and their respective departments are:
College of Business and Social Sciences
- Department of Accounting
- Department of Banking and Finance
- Department of Business Management
- Department of Economics and Development Studies
- Department of Mass Communication
- Department of Political Science and International Relations
- Department of Psychology
- Department of Sociology
College of Leadership Development Studies
- Department of Languages and General Studies
- Department of Leadership Studies
- Department of Political Science and International Relations
College of Engineering
- Department of Chemical Engineering
- Department of Civil Engineering
- Department of Computer and Information Engineering
- Department of Electrical and Information Engineering
- Department of Mechanical Engineering
- Department of Petroleum Engineering
College of Science and Technology
- Department of Architecture
- Department of Biochemistry
- Department of Biology
- Department of Building Technology
- Department of Chemistry
- Department of Computer and Information Sciences
- Department of Estate Management
- Department of Mathematics
- Department of Microbiology
- Department of Physics
Each department offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, designed to provide students with a solid foundation in their chosen field of study and prepare them for successful careers in academia, industry, and the public sector.
Admission Requirements
To gain admission into Covenant University, prospective students must meet the university’s general entry requirements as well as the specific requirements for their chosen program of study.
Undergraduate Admission
To be eligible for admission into an undergraduate program at Covenant University, prospective students must:
- Possess a minimum of five credit passes in the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) or its equivalent, including English Language and Mathematics, obtained in not more than two sittings.
- Attain the minimum cut-off mark in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).
- Participate in the Covenant University Scholastic Aptitude Screening (CUSAS) exercise.
- Meet the specific requirements for their chosen program of study, which may include minimum credit grades in relevant subjects and/or an interview or audition.
Postgraduate Admission
To be eligible for admission into a postgraduate program at Covenant University, prospective students must:
- Possess a relevant bachelor’s degree with a minimum of second-class lower division (2.2) from a recognized university.
- Meet the specific requirements for their chosen program of study, which may include a minimum CGPA, relevant work experience, and/or an interview or research proposal.
- Provide evidence of satisfactory performance in the Postgraduate Admission Screening Exercise (PASE) conducted by the university.
The application process for both undergraduate and postgraduate admission typically begins in the first quarter of the year, with the exact dates and deadlines announced on the university’s website and through various media channels. Prospective students are advised to visit the university’s website or contact the admissions office for detailed information on the application process, required documents, and fees.
Student Life
Life at Covenant University is vibrant, engaging, and transformative, with a wide array of academic, spiritual, social, and extracurricular activities designed to promote the holistic development of students.
Residential Life
Covenant University is a fully residential institution, with all undergraduate students required to live on campus in the university’s halls of residence. The university has separate residential facilities for male and female students, each equipped with modern amenities such as:
- Comfortable bedrooms with private or shared occupancy
- Common rooms for socialization and relaxation
- Reading rooms and study areas
- Kitchenettes and laundry facilities
- 24-hour security and maintenance services
Living on campus provides students with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the university community, forge lasting friendships, and participate in various hall-based activities and competitions.
Spiritual Life
As a Christian university, Covenant University places a strong emphasis on spiritual growth and character development. The university offers a range of spiritual activities and programs, including:
- Chapel services: Weekly chapel services are held on Wednesdays and Sundays, featuring worship, prayer, and sermons from the university’s chaplaincy team and guest speakers.
- Devotionals: Daily devotionals are held in the halls of residence, led by student leaders and focused on Bible study, prayer, and personal reflection.
- Faith-based organizations: The university has several faith-based organizations, such as the Covenant University Christian Fellowship (CUCF) and the Covenant University Prayer Network (CUPN), which provide opportunities for students to deepen their faith and engage in outreach and service activities.
Participation in spiritual activities is voluntary but highly encouraged, as it forms an integral part of the university’s mission to raise a new generation of leaders with sound moral and ethical values.
Sports and Recreation
Covenant University recognizes the importance of physical fitness and recreation in promoting the overall well-being of students. The university has excellent sports facilities and programs, including:
- A multi-purpose sports complex with a football field, basketball courts, volleyball courts, and a tartan track
- A well-equipped gymnasium with weight training and cardio equipment
- A swimming pool and tennis courts
- Intramural sports competitions in various disciplines, such as football, basketball, volleyball, and athletics
- Varsity sports teams that represent the university in national and international competitions
The university also has several recreational clubs and societies, such as the Covenant University Football Club, the Covenant University Basketball Club, and the Covenant University Fitness Club, which provide opportunities for students to pursue their interests and hobbies.
Student Organizations and Clubs
Covenant University has a vibrant student life, with over 50 registered student organizations and clubs catering to a wide range of interests and passions. Some of the notable organizations include:
- Covenant University Students’ Council: The apex student governing body, responsible for representing the interests of students and organizing various events and activities.
- Covenant University Press Club: A platform for students interested in journalism, media, and communication to hone their skills and engage in media production.
- Covenant University Entrepreneurship Development Studies (EDS) Club: A club that promotes entrepreneurship and innovation among students through workshops, seminars, and business plan competitions.
- Covenant University Literary and Debating Society: A society that encourages critical thinking, public speaking, and intellectual discourse through debates, book reviews, and writing competitions.
- Covenant University Cultural Troupe: A troupe that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria and Africa through dance, music, and drama performances.
Participation in student organizations and clubs provides students with opportunities to develop leadership skills, explore their interests, and contribute to the university community.
Academic Facilities and Resources
Covenant University is committed to providing students with state-of-the-art academic facilities and resources to support their learning and research needs.
University Library
The Covenant University Library is a modern, well-equipped facility that serves as the intellectual hub of the university. The library has a collection of over 200,000 print books, 50,000 electronic books, and 30,000 electronic journals, covering a wide range of subjects and disciplines.
The library also provides access to several online databases and resources, such as JSTOR, ScienceDirect, and ProQuest, which enable students and faculty to access the latest research and scholarship in their fields of study. Other notable features of the library include:
- A 24-hour reading room with a seating capacity of over 1,000 users
- Multimedia room with audio-visual equipment and resources
- Special collections section with rare books, manuscripts, and historical documents
- Reprographic services for printing, photocopying, and scanning
- Online public access catalog (OPAC) for remote access to library resources
The library also provides training and support services to help students and faculty make effective use of its resources and services.
Laboratories and Research Facilities
Covenant University has modern, well-equipped laboratories and research facilities across its colleges and departments to support practical learning and research activities. Some of the notable facilities include:
- Engineering laboratories: The College of Engineering has several specialized laboratories, such as the Thermodynamics Laboratory, the Fluid Mechanics Laboratory, and the Materials Testing Laboratory, which are equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and software for hands-on learning and research.
- Science laboratories: The College of Science and Technology has modern laboratories for biology, chemistry, physics, and computer science, equipped with the latest scientific instruments and software for experimentation and analysis.
- Language laboratory: The Department of Languages and General Studies has a language laboratory with audio-visual equipment and software for language learning and practice.
- Entrepreneurship Development Studies (EDS) laboratory: The EDS program has a dedicated laboratory with computers, printers, and software for business plan development and simulation.
These laboratories and research facilities are regularly updated and maintained to ensure that students and faculty have access to the latest tools and technologies in their fields of study.
ICT Facilities
Covenant University has a robust Information and Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructure that supports teaching, learning, research, and administrative activities. The university has a campus-wide wireless network that provides high-speed internet access to students, faculty, and staff, as well as several computer laboratories with desktop computers and software applications.
The university also has a learning management system (LMS) called Moodle, which enables lecturers to share course materials, administer assignments and quizzes, and interact with students online. Other notable ICT facilities and services include:
- Email and cloud storage services for students and staff
- Online databases and e-resources accessible through the university library
- Videoconferencing and telepresence facilities for remote learning and collaboration
- Cybersecurity and data privacy measures to protect the university’s digital assets
The university’s ICT team provides technical support and training to ensure that students and staff can effectively use these facilities and services.
Notable Alumni and Achievements
Covenant University has produced several notable alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields, both in Nigeria and abroad. Some of these alumni include:
- Oluyomi Ojo (Yomi Casual): A leading Nigerian fashion designer and entrepreneur who has dressed several celebrities and public figures.
- Odunayo Eweniyi: Co-founder and Chief Operating Officer of PiggyVest, a leading online savings and investment platform in Nigeria.
- Timilehin Bello: Founder and CEO of Media Panache, a leading public relations and digital marketing agency in Nigeria.
- Olumide Soyombo: Co-founder and Partner at Voltron Capital, a leading venture capital firm that invests in African startups.
- Faith Oyedepo: Founder and Executive Director of the Faith Oyedepo Foundation, a non-profit organization that provides education and empowerment opportunities for women and girls.
These alumni, among many others, have demonstrated the entrepreneurial and leadership skills that Covenant University seeks to instill in its students.
The university has also recorded several notable achievements in research, innovation, and community service. Some of these achievements include:
- Winning the 2018 and 2019 editions of the Hult Prize, a global competition for social entrepreneurship, with student teams developing innovative solutions for global challenges.
- Developing a cost-effective and eco-friendly bio-fertilizer from organic waste, which has the potential to revolutionize agriculture in Nigeria and beyond.
- Establishing the Hebron Startup Lab, an incubation and acceleration program that supports student and alumni entrepreneurs in developing and scaling their business ideas.
- Providing free medical outreach and community development services to underserved communities in Ota and its environs through the university’s Community Development Impact Initiative (CDII).
These achievements demonstrate the university’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and social impact, and have contributed to its growing reputation as a leader in higher education in Nigeria and Africa.
Research and Innovation
Covenant University is a research-intensive institution that places a strong emphasis on knowledge creation and innovation. The university has several research centers and institutes that drive its research agenda and collaborate with industry and government partners to address pressing societal challenges.
Research Centers and Institutes
Some of the notable research centers and institutes at Covenant University include:
- Centre for Research, Innovation and Discovery (CUCRID): The university’s central research administration and coordination unit, which provides support and funding for research activities across all disciplines.
- Covenant University Centre for Entrepreneurship Development Studies (CEDS): A center that promotes entrepreneurship education, research, and practice, and provides support for student and alumni startups.
- Covenant University Centre for Economic Policy and Development Research (CEPDeR): A center that conducts research on economic policy and development issues in Nigeria and Africa, and provides policy advice to government and private sector partners.
- Covenant University Centre for Open Distance and e-Learning (CODeL): A center that promotes the use of technology and distance learning in higher education, and develops online courses and programs for the university.
- Covenant University Centre for Lifelong Learning (CLLL): A center that provides continuing education and professional development programs for working professionals and adult learners.
These centers and institutes collaborate with faculty and students across the university to conduct cutting-edge research and develop innovative solutions to societal challenges.
Research Achievements and Breakthroughs
Covenant University has recorded several notable research achievements and breakthroughs in various fields. Some of these achievements include:
- Developing a novel technique for the synthesis of nanoparticles with potential applications in drug delivery, water treatment, and energy storage.
- Discovering a new species of plant with medicinal properties in Ogun State, Nigeria, which has the potential to treat several diseases and conditions.
- Developing a machine learning algorithm for predicting the academic performance of students, which can help universities to identify and support at-risk students.
- Conducting a comprehensive study on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria, which has informed government policies and interventions to support SMEs during the pandemic.
These research achievements have been published in reputable academic journals and have received recognition from national and international organizations.
Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Covenant University is committed to promoting innovation and entrepreneurship among its students and faculty. The university has several programs and initiatives that support the development and commercialization of innovative ideas and technologies.
Some of these programs and initiatives include:
- Hebron Startup Lab: An incubation and acceleration program that provides mentorship, funding, and resources to student and alumni entrepreneurs to help them develop and scale their business ideas.
- Covenant University Innovation and Entrepreneurship Lecture Series: A series of lectures and workshops that expose students to the latest trends and best practices in innovation and entrepreneurship, and provide opportunities for networking with industry experts and investors.
- Covenant University Innovation and Entrepreneurship Summit: An annual event that brings together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and academics to discuss the challenges and opportunities for innovation and entrepreneurship in Nigeria and Africa.
- Covenant University Intellectual Property and Technology Transfer Office (IPTTO): An office that provides support and guidance to faculty and students in the protection and commercialization of their intellectual property and innovations.
These programs and initiatives have produced several successful startups and innovations, such as:
- ThriveAgric: An agritech startup that provides financing and support to smallholder farmers in Nigeria, founded by Covenant University alumni.
- Softcom: A technology company that provides software solutions for businesses and government agencies in Nigeria, founded by Covenant University alumni.
- EBIS: An electronic billing and payment system developed by Covenant University faculty and students, which has been adopted by several businesses and organizations in Nigeria.
These successes demonstrate the university’s commitment to promoting innovation and entrepreneurship and contributing to the socioeconomic development of Nigeria and Africa.
Community Engagement and Social Impact
Covenant University is committed to making a positive impact on its local community and the wider society. The university has several programs and initiatives that engage with the community and address social challenges.
Community Development Impact Initiative (CDII)
The Community Development Impact Initiative (CDII) is a flagship program of Covenant University that provides free medical outreach and community development services to underserved communities in Ota and its environs. The program is run by the university’s medical students and faculty, in collaboration with local health authorities and community leaders.
Some of the services provided by the CDII include:
- Free medical consultations and treatments for common ailments
- Health education and promotion on topics such as hygiene, nutrition, and disease prevention
- Distribution of free medications and medical supplies
- Referral of complex cases to specialist hospitals and clinics
The CDII has impacted the lives of thousands of community members and has contributed to improving health outcomes and quality of life in the local community.
Covenant University Community Service (CUCS)
Covenant University Community Service (CUCS) is a mandatory program for all undergraduate students, which requires them to undertake community service projects in their local communities. The program is designed to inculcate a sense of social responsibility and leadership in students and to contribute to the development of their communities.
Some of the projects undertaken by CUCS students include:
- Environmental sanitation and beautification of public spaces
- Renovation and repairs of community infrastructure such as schools, health centers, and public toilets
- Tutoring and mentoring of secondary school students in their academic and personal development
- Entrepreneurship and skills training for unemployed youth and women
The CUCS program has impacted several communities and has helped to foster positive relationships between the university and its host communities.
Partnerships and Collaborations
Covenant University has several partnerships and collaborations with government agencies, NGOs, and private sector organizations to address social challenges and promote sustainable development. Some of these partnerships include:
- Partnership with the Ogun State Government on the Ogun State Job Portal, an online platform that connects job seekers with employers in the state.
- Collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the promotion of entrepreneurship and innovation in Nigeria.
- Partnership with the Tony Elumelu Foundation on the Tony Elumelu Entrepreneurship Programme (TEEP), which provides training, mentorship, and funding to young African entrepreneurs.
These partnerships and collaborations demonstrate the university’s commitment to leveraging its expertise and resources to make a positive impact on society and contribute to the achievement of the SDGs.
Career Prospects and Graduate Outcomes
Covenant University is committed to preparing its graduates for successful careers and leadership positions in their chosen fields. The university has a strong track record of producing graduates who are highly sought after by employers and who go on to make significant contributions in their careers and communities.
Career Services and Support
Covenant University has a Career Services Unit that provides a range of services and support to help students and graduates navigate their career paths and achieve their professional goals. Some of the services provided by the unit include:
- Career counseling and coaching to help students identify their strengths, interests, and career options
- Resume and cover letter writing workshops to help students develop compelling job application materials
- Interview skills training and mock interviews to help students prepare for job interviews
- Job search strategies and resources to help students find job opportunities and internships
- Networking events and career fairs to connect students with potential employers and industry professionals
The Career Services Unit also maintains a database of job opportunities and internships, and works with employers to organize recruitment drives and campus interviews.
Graduate Employment and Entrepreneurship
Covenant University has a strong track record of producing graduates who are highly employable and who go on to successful careers in various sectors. According to a recent survey by the university, over 70% of its graduates secure employment within six months of graduation, with many of them working in top companies and organizations in Nigeria and abroad.
The university also has a high rate of graduate entrepreneurship, with many of its graduates starting their own businesses and becoming successful entrepreneurs. The university’s entrepreneurship programs and initiatives, such as the Hebron Startup Lab and the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Summit, have contributed to this success by providing students with the skills, mentorship, and resources they need to start and grow their own businesses.
Some of the notable companies and organizations that have employed Covenant University graduates include:
- Shell Nigeria
- Chevron Nigeria
- Deloitte
- KPMG
- PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC)
- Unilever Nigeria
- Nestle Nigeria
- Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB)
- First Bank of Nigeria
- Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC)
These companies and organizations recognize the quality of education and training provided by Covenant University and the caliber of its graduates.
Alumni Network and Engagement
Covenant University has a strong and active alumni network that provides support and opportunities for its graduates. The university’s Alumni Relations Office maintains a database of alumni and organizes regular events and activities to keep alumni engaged and connected with the university and each other.
Some of the events and activities organized by the Alumni Relations Office include:
- Alumni reunions and homecoming events
- Alumni mentorship programs, where alumni mentor current students and recent graduates
- Alumni career talks and workshops, where alumni share their experiences and insights on career development and success
- Alumni networking events and social gatherings
- Alumni awards and recognition programs, where outstanding alumni are recognized for their achievements and contributions
The alumni network also provides a platform for alumni to give back to the university and support its mission and vision. Many alumni have donated to the university’s scholarship funds, sponsored research projects and programs, and provided internship and job opportunities for current students and recent graduates.
Conclusion
Covenant University is a leading private Christian university in Nigeria that provides a unique and transformative educational experience to its students. With its commitment to academic excellence, research and innovation, entrepreneurship, and community engagement, the university is well-positioned to produce the next generation of leaders and change-makers in Nigeria and Africa.
As a prospective student, choosing to study at Covenant University means joining a vibrant and supportive community of scholars, innovators, and leaders who are passionate about making a positive impact in their fields and communities. The university’s state-of-the-art facilities, experienced faculty, and robust support services provide an enabling environment for students to thrive academically, socially, and spiritually.
If you are looking for a university that will challenge you to be your best, provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in your chosen career, and inspire you to make a difference in the world, then Covenant University is the place for you.
We invite you to explore the university further, visit our campus, and speak with our students, faculty, and staff to learn more about what makes Covenant University a truly special place. We look forward to welcoming you to our community and supporting you on your journey to success and significance.
