Since "GIJ" most commonly refers to the Ghana Institute of Journalism (now integrated into the University of Media, Arts and Communication - UMAC), this text is tailored to that context but is structured so it can be adapted for any journalism institution.
Journalism is built on integrity. The handbook reflects this zero-tolerance approach:
Students appearing on GIJ TV or GIJ Radio (campus-based stations) must adhere to professional dress codes. No hoodies, caps, or graphic t-shirts on set.
The handbook reminds students that they are bound by the GJA (Ghana Journalists Association) Code of Ethics the moment they identify as a GIJ student on assignment. This includes:
The Institute reserves the right to amend rules and regulations stated in this handbook at any time. Students will be notified of changes via official notice boards and student email portals.
[Signature of Rector] [Date]
Gij Student Handbook
Welcome to Gij, a vibrant and diverse community of students, faculty, and staff. As a student at Gij, you are part of a long tradition of academic excellence, innovative research, and commitment to making a positive impact in the world.
Our Mission
The mission of Gij is to provide a supportive and inclusive learning environment that fosters intellectual curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. We strive to empower our students to become active citizens, thoughtful leaders, and lifelong learners.
Academic Policies
Student Life
Campus Resources
Student Conduct
Health and Wellness
Campus Safety
Getting Involved
Important Dates
Contact Information
We are excited to have you join the Gij community! If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to us.
At the University of Media, Arts, and Communication (UniMAC)—formerly the Ghana Institute of Journalism (GIJ)—preparing academic or journalistic pieces requires strict adherence to institutional standards for originality and formatting. 1. Maintain Academic Integrity
Originality Declaration: You must declare that all work is the result of your own research and has not been submitted for any other degree.
Avoiding Plagiarism: Every piece must duly acknowledge external sources. Failure to do so is considered a serious academic transgression.
Signal Phrases: When citing multiple authors (e.g., three), you must name all authors every time the work is cited. 2. Formatting & Citation Style
In-Text Citations: Direct quotes require the author's name, publication year, and specific page number.
Long Quotations: Any quote over 40 words must be indented and formatted as a block quote.
Paraphrasing: While page numbers are not strictly required for paraphrased ideas, you must still include the author and year. 3. Submission Standards
Abstracts: Most formal pieces, such as dissertations or scholarly articles, require a concise abstract summarizing the work.
Coursework Requirements: For practical assignments, ensure you include a proper cover page. Standard formatting often accounts for up to 25% of your final coursework mark. gij student handbook
Electronic Submission: Soft copies are typically required to be emailed to specific departmental portals (e.g., for assessment or plagiarism checks). 4. Degree Classification (GPA)
Your performance on prepared pieces directly impacts your final classification. As of 2026, the standard grading at UniMAC-GIJ is: First Class: 3.5 – 4.0 CGPA. Second Class (Upper): 3.0 – 3.49 CGPA. Second Class (Lower): 2.5 – 2.99 CGPA. Home - University of Media, Arts and Communication
The GIJ Student Handbook (now under the UniMAC – University of Media, Arts and Communication) serves as the definitive legal and academic roadmap for every student enrolled at the Ghana Institute of Journalism. Whether you are a freshman navigating your first semester or a final-year student preparing for graduation, this document details the policies, ethics, and procedures that govern your time at the institution. 1. Academic Policies and Registration
The handbook provides specific guidelines for the administrative side of university life. Key areas include:
Registration Procedures: Students are responsible for completing their course registration within the notified timeframe. Often, access to registration portals is contingent upon fulfilling financial obligations, such as paying tuition and SRC dues.
Course Selection: Degree and diploma programs use alphanumerical codes (e.g., POLI 101). The third digit typically indicates the semester: odd numbers for the first semester and even for the second.
Attendance: Participation in lectures, tests, tutorials, and practicals is compulsory. Excessive unexcused absences can lead to a student being required to repeat the semester. 2. Grading and Academic Standing
Understanding your academic progress is a core part of the handbook's utility.
GPA and CGPA Calculation: The handbook defines critical terms like Credit Taken (CT), Grade Point (GP), and Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA).
Academic Probation: Students who fall below specific grade thresholds may be placed on academic probation, requiring them to repeat failed courses to make up their workload.
Graduation Requirements: To graduate, students must complete all required credit hours and meet the minimum CGPA standards set for their specific diploma or degree program. 3. Examination Regulations and Misconduct
Integrity is the cornerstone of journalism education. The handbook outlines strict examination guidelines to ensure fairness:
Offences: Misconduct includes impersonation, possessing unauthorized materials (leakage or "crib notes"), and communicating with other candidates during an exam.
Plagiarism: While group work is encouraged, final submissions must be the student's own work. Allowing others to copy your work is considered a punishable offence. Since "GIJ" most commonly refers to the Ghana
Identification: Students must carry their official University ID cards at all times, especially during examinations and when using library facilities. 4. Student Life and Rights
The handbook isn't just about rules; it’s about your rights and opportunities:
Student Unionism: UniMAC-GIJ encourages active and responsible student union activities through its Student Representative Council (SRC).
Prizes and Awards: Exceptional academic performance is recognized through various Institute prizes awarded during convocation ceremonies.
Facilities: Information on resources like the Digital Media Hub, e-libraries, and centers for audio-visual production is typically detailed to help students maximize their training. Why You Must Read It
The policies within the UniMAC Undergraduate Handbook are subject to change without prior notice, making it the student’s responsibility to stay updated. Familiarizing yourself with these guidelines prevents "avoidable" errors, such as missing registration deadlines or unintentionally committing examination malpractice. Student Handbooks - International Programmes Office
This is the section you must read to avoid academic probation.
GIJ follows a specific grading system (usually based on the University of Ghana curriculum framework). The handbook clarifies:
Title: Don’t Sleep on It: Why the GGSIPU Student Handbook is Your Secret Weapon
Date: April 20, 2026 Author: The Campus Insider
Let’s be real for a second.
When you got your admission letter to IP University, you probably ripped open the envelope, glanced at the shiny logo, and tossed the rest of the paperwork into a drawer. And inside that pile of paperwork? The GGSIPU Student Handbook.
I know what you’re thinking: “A handbook? Boring. I’ll just ask my friends if I have a question.”
Stop right there. Throwing away that handbook is like throwing away the cheat codes to the hardest video game you’ve ever played. Whether you are at USLLS, USCT, or any of the affiliated colleges, that little red and white book is gold. Journalism is built on integrity
Here is why you need to dig it out of your drawer today.
Established in [Year], the Global Institute of Journalism was founded with a singular vision: to train professional communicators who can lead with integrity in a rapidly evolving media landscape.