The Department of Estate Management was established with the mission to produce graduates who will rank among the best in real estate academics and professional practice in Nigeria. This mission has been the driving force behind the department’s continuous growth and development. Over the years, the department has built a reputation for excellence, attracting students who are passionate about real estate and committed to making a difference in the industry.

Key Milestones: Professional Accreditation and National Recognition

One of the most significant milestones in the department’s history was achieving full professional accreditation from the Estate Surveyors and Valuers Registration Board of Nigeria (ESVARBON) in 2020. This accreditation is a testament to the department’s adherence to the highest standards of academic and professional training. In 2022, the department further solidified its standing with full accreditation from the National Universities Commission (NUC), ensuring that its programs meet the rigorous academic standards required for higher education in Nigeria.

These accreditations are not just formalities; they are the foundation upon which the department builds its programs and curriculum. They ensure that students receive a comprehensive education that is recognized both nationally and internationally, preparing them for successful careers in estate management.

Leadership and Achievements

The success of the Department of Estate Management can be attributed to the visionary leadership of its past and current Heads of Department (HODs). Dr. Odumodu Alpha Ifeanyi, who served as HOD from 2017 to 2019, laid the groundwork for the department’s growth. His successor, Dr. Anyakora Mike Ifeanyi (2019-2023), continued to build on this foundation, leading the department to new heights. Under his leadership, the department celebrated the graduation of 31 students, including a first-class graduate, between 2021 and 2023. This achievement highlights the department’s commitment to academic excellence and its ability to nurture top-tier talent.

In 2021, the department’s students achieved national recognition by winning the first position in the Estate Management students’ National Quiz Competition organized by the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV). This victory is a reflection of the department’s dedication to fostering a competitive spirit and a deep understanding of the field among its students.

Currently, the department is led by Dr. Odimegwu Chinwe Ngozi (2024), who brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to the role. Under her leadership, the department is poised to continue its trajectory of growth and excellence.

Vision for the Future: Expanding Opportunities

Looking ahead, the Department of Estate Management has set ambitious targets for the future. The department is working to establish Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) and Master of Science (M.Sc.) programs in innovative areas within the 2024-2025 academic session. These programs will offer advanced training and research opportunities, catering to the growing demand for specialized knowledge in the real estate sector.

By 2027-2028, the department aims to introduce M-Phil and Ph.D. programs, further expanding its academic offerings. These programs will be launched after the graduation of two sets of M.Sc. students, ensuring that the department is well-prepared to support advanced research and scholarship.

A Comprehensive Curriculum: Preparing for Success

The Department of Estate Management offers a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree in Estate Management, designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the real estate industry. The program’s philosophy emphasizes the complex legal, economic, social, and technological impacts on the use, development, and management of land and the built environment. This holistic approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared to address the challenges of sustainability and ethical practice in their professional careers.

Admission Requirements: Pathways to Success

The department’s admission requirements are designed to attract students who are committed to academic excellence and passionate about real estate. For undergraduate admission, applicants must have a minimum of five credit passes in one sitting in subjects including Mathematics, English, Economics, and any two of Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Agricultural Science, Geography, Bookkeeping and Financial Accounting, Fine Arts, Technical Drawing, Surveying, and Building Construction. Additionally, a JAMB score of at least 160 is required.

For those seeking postgraduate admission, a minimum CGPA of 3.0 from a department of Estate Management or a related field is necessary. This ensures that only the most qualified and dedicated students are admitted into the program, maintaining the department’s high academic standards.

Streamlined Admission Process: From Application to Registration

The admission process at COOU’s Department of Estate Management is straightforward and user-friendly. Prospective students begin by generating a Remita for an application form through the university’s portal. After making the necessary payments, applicants fill out and submit their application forms, upload their O’level results to the JAMB portal, and complete the admission process on both the JAMB and school portals. Once admitted, students pay an acceptance fee and begin the necessary documentation at both the faculty and departmental levels.

For students seeking admission deferment or transfer, the department offers flexible procedures that adhere to the university’s guidelines. This ensures that all students have the opportunity to pursue their studies under conditions that best suit their circumstances.

A Commitment to Excellence

The Department of Estate Management at COOU is committed to producing graduates who are not only knowledgeable but also prepared to lead in the real estate industry. With a strong foundation in academic and professional training, a commitment to research and innovation, and a clear vision for the future, the department is well-positioned to continue its legacy of excellence.