Handbook | Gij Student

Navigating university life can be overwhelming. From understanding course registration deadlines to knowing the exact protocol for academic appeals, students face a labyrinth of rules and regulations. For students of the Ghana Institute of Journalism (GIJ)—now officially known as the University of Media, Arts and Communication (UNIMAC)—one document stands as the definitive source of truth: The GIJ Student Handbook.

Whether you are a fresher stepping onto the Ringway Estates campus for the first time or a returning senior student looking to clarify examination policies, the Student Handbook is your indispensable companion. This article serves as a detailed walkthrough of the handbook, explaining why it matters, what critical information it contains, and how to use it to avoid common academic pitfalls.

Many students make the mistake of storing the handbook PDF in a forgotten folder or tossing the physical copy into a drawer. This is a critical error. The handbook is legally binding. When disputes arise—be it about a missed exam, a plagiarism charge, or a hostel violation—the handbook is the final arbiter.

Ignorance of the rules is not accepted as an excuse by the Academic Board. Therefore, understanding the GIJ Student Handbook is not just about being prepared; it is about self-preservation and academic success.

Students often ask, “Do I really need to read the whole thing?”

Yes. Because ignorance of the GIST Handbook is not a defense.

The Bottom Line The GIST Student Handbook is your contract with the institute. It empowers you to demand your full stipend, defend your intellectual property rights, and seek help when experiments—and life—don’t go as planned.

Read it once when you arrive. Consult it every semester. And remember: at GIST, the smartest student isn't just the one with the highest citation index, but the one who knows the rules of the game.

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.

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

Ghana Institute of Journalism (GIJ) , now a constituent institute of the University of Media, Arts and Communication (UniMAC)

, provides a comprehensive student handbook that outlines the institutional rules, academic policies, and campus expectations.

The primary purpose of this content is to ensure students understand their rights and responsibilities throughout their tenure at the institute. Core Content of the GIJ Student Handbook 1. Academic Policies & Regulations Registration Procedures

: Detailed steps for semester course registration and handling academic records. Grading System

: Information on credit hour requirements, maintaining a minimum CGPA (often 2.00), and degree completion timeframes. Examination Conduct

: Strict guidelines on examination offenses, including attempts to cheat or improper behavior during assessments. Academic Probation

: Explanations of what happens when performance falls below standard, including the potential for repeating courses. 2. Campus Life & Student Conduct General Rules

: Prohibitions on gambling, unauthorized substances, and weapons on campus grounds. Disciplinary Actions

: Clear definitions of violations that may lead to suspension or expulsion. Freedom of Expression gij student handbook

: Policies regarding student advocacy, harassment, and the appropriate use of campus signage. Student Services

: Resources for mental health, wellbeing, and academic guidance. 3. Administrative & Financial Information School Handbooks | The Maryland People's Law Library

In the humid halls of the University of Media, Arts and Communication (UniMAC), formerly the Ghana Institute of Journalism (GIJ) , the Student Handbook

wasn't just a book; it was a survival guide. For Kofi, a fresh-faced Level 100 student, it was the only thing standing between him and the dreaded "Academic Probation". The Quest for the Handbook

Kofi’s journey began at the Registry, where he was told the handbook was "subject to change without prior notice". He clutched his admission receipt—the one he’d gotten after paying his 250 cedis at Fidelity Bank—like a golden ticket.

"Read Section 7.5," a passing senior whispered, eyes darting toward the Dean's office. "If you want to change your program from Public Relations to Journalism, you have exactly 28 days. Day 29? You’re stuck forever". The Mystery of the GPA

Kofi spent his first night in the library, illuminated by the glow of his laptop, deciphering the handbook's Guide on GPA Calculation. The math was more daunting than his "Introduction to Editing" course: Degree Level: 3 credit hours per course.

The Goal: A CGPA of 3.5 to 4.0 to secure that elusive First Class Honours.

The Risk: Anything below a 1.0 was a simple "Pass," or worse, the repeat of failed courses. The Final Warning

As he flipped to the final pages, a bolded section caught his eye: Examination Offences. The handbook warned that any "attempt" at an offence would be met with the full weight of the University's policies.

Kofi closed the book. He wasn't just a student anymore; he was a strategic communicator in training. He knew the rules, he knew the math, and most importantly, he knew the 28-day clock was ticking. university of media, arts and communication - UniMAC

The GIJ Student Handbook (now integrated under the University of Media, Arts and Communication (UniMAC)) is the essential regulatory guide for every student enrolled at the Ghana Institute of Journalism. It outlines the academic standards, disciplinary codes, and administrative procedures required to navigate your journey as a communications professional. 1. Academic Standards and Classifications

The handbook provides the framework for measuring academic success. Students are graded on a Grade Point Average (GPA) system that determines their final certificate classification: Degree Classification CGPA Range First Class 3.50 – 4.00 Second Class (Upper Division) 3.00 – 3.49 Second Class (Lower Division) 2.50 – 2.99 Third Class 2.00 – 2.49 1.10 – 1.99

Diploma Programs: Use a similar scale, where a CGPA of 3.50+ results in a Distinction.

Credit Definitions: One course credit is typically defined as one hour of lecture or tutorial per week for a semester. 2. Registration and Financial Policies

Students are responsible for managing their registration through the GIJ Student Portal.

Course Registration: Must be completed at the start of each semester. Freshmen must pass all courses to progress to the next level.

Fee Deadlines: The institution strictly enforces fee payment dates. In past academic years, students who failed to pay fees by the deadline were directed to defer their academic year.

Retakes and Repeats: Continuing students may carry up to two referred courses into the next level, provided they are cleared during the next available window. 3. Examination Rules and Regulations

The handbook emphasizes academic integrity. "Examination offences" include any attempt to gain an unfair advantage.

Prohibited Actions: Bringing unauthorized written information into the hall, communicating with other candidates, or refusing to follow an invigilator's instructions.

Preparation: Students are usually granted a three-week revision period before examinations begin to catch up on materials and clarify issues.

Plagiarism: All final products must be the student's own work. Submitting work with significant similarities to a peer's can result in cancellation of the paper. 4. Code of Conduct and Ethics

Beyond academics, the handbook mandates a standard of professional behavior aligned with the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Code of Ethics.

Whether you are a fresh student navigating North Ridge or a final-year student finalizing your project, the Student Handbook (or the Undergraduate Policies and Procedures ) is your most important document. It is the definitive guide to surviving and thriving at the Ghana Institute of Journalism (now part of UniMAC). 📍 Essential Highlights 1. Registration or Deferment

Missing the registration deadline is more than a minor slip-up.

The Rule: If you fail to register (in person or by proxy) during the official period, you forfeit your right to register for the entire semester.

The Consequence: In such cases, management typically directs students to defer their course for the year. 2. Examination Standards UniMAC-IJ takes "academic integrity" seriously.

Prohibited Items: Any book, paper, or written info not required by the exam is strictly banned.

ID Requirements: You must place your Student ID card face up on your desk throughout the session.

Group Work: While collaborative study is encouraged, your final exam script must be 100% your own. Sharing work that leads to similarities can result in paper cancellation. 3. Library Etiquette The library is a "silence zone" designed for focus.

Dress Code: No shorts, night dresses, or round-neck T-shirts; formal dress code often applies.

Banned Items: Bags, food, and mobile phone conversations are strictly prohibited inside.

ID Use: Your ID card is non-transferable and must be presented to borrow books or access digital resources. 💡 Quick Tips for New Students Navigating university life can be overwhelming

Check the Portal: Use the UniMAC Student Portal to register courses and check results.

Medical Leave: If you are ill for more than 3 days, you must inform the Registrar in writing.

Academic Probation: Stay on top of your GPA; falling below the required threshold can lead to probation or withdrawal. university of media, arts and communication - UniMAC

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.

The student handbook for the University of Media, Arts and Communication (UniMAC), which includes the Ghana Institute of Journalism (GIJ), details academic regulations, registration procedures, and grading, including a CGPA scale from 1.1 to 4.0. Key guidelines on examination conduct and policy, including rules regarding academic integrity, are also strictly enforced. For full policy details, see the UniMAC-GIJ Undergraduate Policies and Procedures.

GIJ Student Handbook (now under the University of Media, Arts and Communication - UniMAC

) is the essential rulebook for all students at the Ghana Institute of Journalism campus. It covers academic policies, registration procedures, and behavioral standards required to maintain good standing at the university. Key Sections of the Handbook Academic Policies & Registration

: Detailed procedures for semester registration, course scheduling, and maintaining academic records. Grading & GPA Calculation : A guide on how to calculate your GPA and CGPA

, with specific credit hour values for Diploma (2 hours) and Degree (3 hours) levels. Examination Regulations : Strict guidelines on exam conduct and definitions of examination offences Student Governance

: Information on the student body structure, including the Guild President and various ministries (Finance, Education, Information, etc.). Code of Conduct

: Rules regarding attendance, dress codes, and anti-harassment policies designed to foster a respectful campus environment. Essential Resources Access Link Official Undergraduate Policies UniMAC Undergraduate Policies Student Portal UniMAC-GIJ Portal Academic Calendar 2025/2026 Calendar GPA Calculation Guide Step-by-step Calculation Important Reminders Responsibility

: Students are responsible for familiarizing themselves with all policies; "ignorance of the law" is not an excuse for violations. Academic Probation

: The handbook outlines the criteria for being placed on probation and the requirements for repeating failed courses. Graduation Requirements

: Lists specific CGPA thresholds for certificate classifications, such as a 3.5 minimum for a First Class or more details on specific course requirements for your program?

What Should a Student Handbook Contain? - Success By Design, Inc.

Ghana Institute of Journalism (GIJ) , which is now a constituent institute of the University of Media, Arts and Communication (UniMAC)

following a merger with NAFTI and GIL, provides essential guidelines for its students through official manuals and handbooks. Core Student Resources UniMAC Right to Information (RTI) Manual

: This document outlines the university's structure, describing the activities of various directorates and providing the official organogram. It also details the procedure for students to apply for and process information requests or amend personal records. Academic Submission Guidelines

: Students preparing scholarly work must follow specific formatting, such as using the Harvard referencing style

for all citations and including high-resolution original figures or charts. Library and Research Support : The UniMAC Library provides an Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC)

for discovering books and journals, an institutional repository for scholarly works, and a Research Commons equipped with high-speed internet. Academic Requirements Mature Student Entry Many students make the mistake of storing the

: Applicants must be at least 25 years old and provide proof of age at least 5 years old at the time of application. They are required to pass entrance examinations in English, Mathematics, and an Aptitude Test. Essential Values

: Students are encouraged to adhere to shared Ghanaian values, including integrity, equity, self-directed learning, and responsible citizenship, which are integrated into the broader educational curriculum. Student Services Mental Health Support

: While not exclusive to GIJ, modern student resources increasingly emphasize mental health, directing those in need to seek support from trusted adults or crisis lines. Practical Training

: The institute emphasizes practical workshops and industry partnerships to provide students with internships and job opportunities in fields like journalism, film production, and screenwriting. or information on specific degree programs offered by the institute?

Admission Requirements - University of Media, Arts and ... - UniMAC

The student handbook for the former Ghana Institute of Journalism (GIJ), now a constituent institute of the University of Media, Arts and Communication (UniMAC), serves as the definitive guide for undergraduate and postgraduate students. It outlines the academic standards, professional conduct, and administrative procedures required to maintain the institute's status as a premier communications training body. Core Academic Regulations

The Undergraduate Policies and Procedures at UniMAC establish the framework for academic success and progression:

Course Registration: Students are responsible for their own registration, course scheduling, and ensuring they meet all prerequisites for their chosen modules.

Attendance Requirements: While specific percentages can vary by department, standard university regulations typically require at least 70% attendance for a student to be eligible for final examinations.

Grading and GPA: Academic standing is determined by the Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA). Distinction/First Class: 3.5 – 4.0 Credit/Second Class Upper: 3.0 – 3.49 Pass: 1.0 – 2.49 (Lower divisions fall within this range) Fail: Below 1.0.

Academic Probation and Withdrawal: Students who fail three or more courses in a semester, or continuing students who fail 50% or more of their workload, may face academic withdrawal. Examination Guidelines

The GIJ Examination Guideline hosted on Scribd details strict protocols to ensure academic integrity:

Revision Period: A standard three-week revision time is usually allocated before the start of major examinations.

Examination Offences: Prohibited acts include any form of communication with other candidates, possession of unauthorized materials, or refusal to follow invigilator instructions.

Online Submissions: For digital assessments, students are typically required to report any technical challenges (such as upload issues) within a strictly defined window—often three hours—after the paper concludes. Professional Standards and Conduct

As a professional training institute, GIJ emphasizes a "corporate-ready" culture:

Professional Dress Code: Students are encouraged to dress in a manner befitting the "inky profession." This often excludes casual wear like T-shirts or faded jeans in formal academic settings.

Code of Conduct: Students must act with decorum. Any act of indiscipline can be referred to a Disciplinary Committee, with potential sanctions ranging from warnings to dismissal.

Civic Responsibility: Organizations like the National Youth Authority (NYA) highlight the role of journalism students as the "fourth estate," expected to uphold high ethical standards. university of media, arts and communication - UniMAC

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.

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

Unlike traditional universities, most GIST students are Research Assistants (RAs) or Teaching Assistants (TAs).

The handbook outlines the process:

GIJ maintains a clinic on the main campus. The handbook details: