St. Philomena College of Nursing Sciences, Benin-City, Edo State
Are you passionate about pursuing a rewarding career in nursing in Nigeria? St. Philomena College of Nursing Sciences in Benin City offers a rich educational experience built on decades of excellence in healthcare training. This comprehensive overview will guide you through everything you need to know about this prestigious institution.
About St. Philomena College of Nursing Sciences
Founded in 1950 as part of St. Philomena Catholic Hospital (established 1941), this nursing college has deep historical roots in Nigerian healthcare education. Located in the heart of Benin City, Edo State at 23 Dawson Road, the institution operates under the Catholic Mission with a strong emphasis on compassionate, holistic healthcare education.
The college proudly operates by its motto, “Knowledge for Service,” reflecting its commitment to training nurses who combine technical expertise with genuine care for patients.
Key institutional facts:
- Accreditation: Fully approved by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN)
- Affiliation: Operates under the Catholic Mission healthcare network
- Clinical Experience: Direct access to St. Philomena Catholic Hospital facilities
Academic Programs Offered
St. Philomena College provides multiple pathways to nursing excellence, catering to different career aspirations:
General Nursing Program
- Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
- Qualification: Registered Nurse (RN) certification upon passing NMCN examination
- Focus: Comprehensive training in general healthcare, nursing theory and practice
Basic Midwifery Program
- Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
- Qualification: Registered Midwife (RM) certification
- Focus: Specialized training in maternal and child health
Post-Basic Nursing Program
- Duration: 2 years
- Eligibility: Must be a Registered Nurse seeking specialization
- Qualification: Advanced nursing certification in chosen specialty
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.Sc)
- Duration: 4 years
- Qualification: Bachelor’s degree in Nursing Science
- Focus: Advanced theoretical foundations and practical skills
Post-Basic Midwifery Program
- Duration: 18 months
- Eligibility: Must be a Registered Nurse
- Qualification: Additional midwifery certification (RM)
Core Curriculum Components
The education at St. Philomena integrates theoretical knowledge with practical application through:
- Foundational Sciences: Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, Pharmacology
- Clinical Skills: Patient assessment, care planning, medical procedures
- Specialized Knowledge: Mental Health, Primary Health Care, Family Planning
- Practical Training: Hospital rotations, community health experience
- Professional Development: Ethics, communication, leadership skills
Admission Requirements
General Requirements (All Programs)
- Minimum age of 16 years at application time
- Good physical and mental health
- Strong moral character
Academic Requirements
- Five credits in WASSCE/NECO/GCE O-Level including:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Biology/Health Science
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Credits must be obtained in not more than two sittings
Program-Specific Requirements
- Post-Basic Programs: Valid RN license and certification
- B.Sc Nursing: May require higher cutoff scores in science subjects
Application Process
The application process is straightforward but requires careful attention to deadlines:
- Obtain Application Form:
- Download from official website (spsom.org)
- Visit campus to purchase directly
- Current form fee: ₦20,200
- Submit Completed Application:
- Include all required academic documents
- Attach passport photographs
- Submit either in-person or via email ([email protected])
- Entrance Examination:
- Written test on science subjects and English
- Usually scheduled annually (recent exam: October 2024)
- Interview & Medical Screening:
- Face-to-face assessment with faculty
- Evaluation of personal qualities suitable for nursing
- Admission Notification:
- Successful candidates receive formal offers
- Registration materials provided upon acceptance
Pro tip: Contact the admissions office directly at 08095433333 or 09538803333 for the most current application deadlines and requirements.
Faculty Excellence
The college boasts an exceptional teaching staff with impressive credentials:
- Dr. Christiana Ijeghede: PhD-holding midwife educator with extensive experience
- Mrs. Stella Ochei: Nurse educator with over 20 years of professional practice
- Mr. Gregory Oghedegbe: Nurse educator with valuable international experience from the UK
- Mrs. Omofuma Theresa: Vice Principal and seasoned midwife educator
The institution’s leadership combines academic rigor with professional experience, including a principal who is both a certified nursing/midwifery tutor and qualified lawyer.
Campus Facilities
Students benefit from excellent facilities designed to support their learning journey:
- Clinical Simulation Labs: Practice essential skills in a controlled environment
- Library Resources: Access to nursing textbooks, journals, and digital resources
- Hostel Accommodation: Comfortable on-campus living arrangements
- Hospital Access: Direct training opportunities at St. Philomena Catholic Hospital
- Nutrition Laboratory: Specialized training in therapeutic diet design
- Community Health Exposure: Urban and rural healthcare settings
Student Life Experience
Life at St. Philomena offers a balanced educational experience:
- Diverse Community: Welcomes students of all faiths while maintaining Catholic values
- Structured Learning: Disciplined approach to nursing education
- Professional Development: Regular workshops and skills training
- Ethical Foundation: Strong emphasis on compassionate, selfless patient care
- Supportive Environment: Faculty mentorship throughout the educational journey
Career Prospects After Graduation
Graduates of St. Philomena enjoy excellent career opportunities:
- Hospital Placements: Public and private healthcare facilities
- Maternal Health Centers: Specialized care for mothers and infants
- Primary Healthcare: Community-based preventive services
- International Opportunities: Qualification recognized globally (with additional certification)
- Advanced Education: Pathways to higher degrees and specializations
Salary expectations: Nigerian nurses typically earn between ₦80,000-₦200,000 monthly starting salary, with potential for significant increases through specialization and experience.
Why Choose St. Philomena College?
Academic Excellence
- Comprehensive curriculum meeting national standards
- High pass rates in professional licensing examinations
- Strong theoretical foundation with practical application
Professional Development
- Direct hospital experience through affiliation
- Ethical training grounded in compassionate care principles
- Networking opportunities with healthcare professionals
Institutional Reputation
- Long-standing history of nursing education excellence
- Catholic mission affiliation ensuring ethical standards
- Recognized qualifications across Nigeria and beyond
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes St. Philomena College different from other nursing schools?
The combination of Catholic healthcare values, direct hospital affiliation, and extensive history in healthcare education creates a unique learning environment focused on both technical excellence and compassionate care.
Are there scholarship opportunities available?
While specific scholarships aren’t detailed in available information, qualified students may explore federal and state bursary options. Contact the administration office directly for current financial assistance programs.
Can I work while studying at St. Philomena?
The intensive nature of nursing education, particularly with mandatory clinical rotations, makes full-time employment challenging. Part-time studies aren’t typically available for initial nursing qualifications.
What is the success rate for graduates in licensing examinations?
The college maintains strong performance in NMCN licensing examinations, though specific statistics should be requested from the admissions office for the most current data.
Is the qualification internationally recognized?
Yes, though graduates seeking international practice will need to meet additional requirements specific to their destination country, including licensing examinations and language proficiency tests.
Take Your First Step Toward a Nursing Career
St. Philomena College of Nursing Sciences offers a comprehensive, values-based education that prepares you for a fulfilling career in healthcare. With its strong reputation, hospital affiliation, and focus on holistic patient care, graduates enter the workforce as competent, compassionate nursing professionals.
Ready to begin your nursing journey? Contact the admissions office today:
- Phone: 08095433333 | 09538803333
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: spsom.org
- Address: 23 Dawson Road, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria