Evolution of the School of Postgraduate Studies at The National Open University of Nigeria

Abstract

The School of Postgraduate Studies (SPGS), National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), serves as a leading model of postgraduate education delivery through Open and Distance Learning (ODL) in Nigeria and West Africa. This paper provides a historical overview of the evolution, structure, and strategic reforms within the SPGS since its formal establishment in 2009. It examines institutional milestones, innovations in academic delivery, and the challenges faced in implementing flexible postgraduate learning. Since its inception, the School has grown from a few postgraduate diploma offerings to over 50 academic programmes across nine faculties. Between 2008 and 2025, NOUN graduated 38,648 postgraduate students, out of which 29,583 (76.54%) completed their programmes between 2021 and 2025 alone. Notably, the 2025 Convocation recorded the highest number of PhD graduates (40 doctoral awardees) in the institution’s history, marking a significant achievement in distance learning research output. Under the leadership of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olufemi Peters (2021 to 2026), the automation of thesis moderation via the Project Administration System (PAS), the formalisation of MPhil/PhD pathways, the elimination of PhD coursework in favour of thematic seminars, and the introduction of a quarterly online postgraduate research seminar were established. These efforts enhanced quality assurance and learner engagement within a decentralised, digitally mediated academic environment.  SPGS continues to confront challenges such as limited funding and prevailing misconceptions about ODL. Planned reforms include the Annual Doctoral Conference, academic research awards, and strategies to improve scholarly publication. The SPGS of NOUN is positioned as a benchmark institution for flexible, inclusive, and quality-assured postgraduate education. It aligns with the national vision by demonstrating how innovation and strategic leadership can transform the postgraduate landscape in ODL institutions across Africa.