Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ)

Admission in Progress – Apply Now

The Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ) is now admitting students into its various academic programmes. This is an exciting opportunity for everyone who is passionate about communication, media, photography, journalism, and public relations. Whether you are just finishing secondary school, already have a diploma or degree, or you are simply looking for short-term professional training, NIJ has something for you.

In this guide, we will carefully explain everything you need to know about the courses available, the requirements for admission, and the short training programmes that can help you build your career in journalism and communication. The explanation here is simple, so anyone can understand it clearly.

Why Choose the Nigerian Institute of Journalism?

The Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ), located at Ogba, Ikeja, Lagos, is one of the leading institutions in Nigeria for training people in journalism, mass communication, public relations, advertising, photography, and media studies.

The world is changing very fast, and communication has become one of the most powerful tools today. Journalists, media practitioners, broadcasters, and content creators play a big role in how information is shared and how people make decisions.

By studying at NIJ, you are not just learning in a classroom. You are learning practical skills that can help you work in newspapers, television, radio, advertising agencies, public relations firms, online media, or even start your own media company.

Another good thing is that NIJ offers both long-term programmes (ND, HND, and PGD) and short-term programmes (like proficiency certificates and workshops). This means you can choose a path that fits your level of education, your interest, and your available time.

A. Regular Academic Programmes

These are the main academic programmes at NIJ. They are structured for students who want to build a solid career in journalism and media studies.

1. National Diploma (ND)

The National Diploma (ND) is the entry-level programme for students who are just leaving secondary school or who want to start fresh in journalism and media.

Admission Requirements:

You must have at least 5 Ordinary Level Credit Passes in subjects such as English Language, Literature in English, and Mathematics.

The credits must be obtained in not more than two sittings (this means you can combine results from two exams, like WAEC and NECO, but not more than that)

You must also sit for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), which is conducted by JAMB, and meet the cut-off mark required for admission.

The ND programme gives students the foundation in journalism, media studies, and communication. You will be introduced to writing, reporting, broadcasting, photography, and media ethics. After completing this programme, you can either go for further studies (like HND) or start working in the media industry.

2. Higher National Diploma (HND)

The Higher National Diploma (HND) is for students who have already completed their National Diploma in Mass Communication or a related field.

Admission Requirements:

You must have the same requirements as the ND programme above.

In addition, you must already hold a National Diploma (ND) in Mass Communication with at least a Lower Credit grade.

You must also have completed at least one year of industrial training (IT) after your ND programme.

The HND programme goes deeper into journalism, media studies, and strategic communication. Students learn advanced reporting, public relations, advertising, and media management. With this certificate, you can work in high-level roles in newspapers, radio, TV stations, or corporate communication departments.

3. Postgraduate Diploma (PGD)

The Postgraduate Diploma is for students who already have a higher qualification, like an HND or a university degree, but want to specialize in journalism, mass communication, or media-related fields.

Admission Requirements:

You must have a good HND or a university degree in any discipline. It doesn’t matter if your first degree is in engineering, law, sciences, or social sciences; as long as you want to pursue a career in communication, you can apply.

The PGD programme is flexible for professionals who want to switch careers, journalists who want to improve their qualifications, or graduates who want to prepare for a master’s degree in communication or journalism. It focuses on areas like print journalism, broadcast journalism, public relations, and advertising.

B. Short-Term Programmes

Not everyone has the time or resources to study for two or three years. Some people simply want to get specific skills within a few months. This is why NIJ also offers short-term professional programmes. These programmes are flexible, practical, and very useful for those who want quick training.

1. Proficiency Certificate in Photojournalism (Weekends Only)

This course is designed for people who want to improve their photography skills, especially for journalism and media purposes.

It is divided into two categories:

Category A: For practicing photojournalists who want to upgrade their skills.

Category B: For amateur photographers who want to start learning the basics of photojournalism.

Duration: 4 months (weekends only). This makes it convenient for working-class people.

2. Training in Basic Photography

This is for beginners who are just entering photography. If you want to learn how to handle a camera, take professional pictures, and understand the basics of photography, this training is perfect for you.

3. Proficiency Certificate in Photography (Weekends Only)

This is another photography programme but broader. It covers not just photojournalism but photography in general. Students are trained on how to capture images for media, events, advertising, and creative purposes.

Duration: 4 months (weekends only).

4. Proficiency Certificate in Writing and Communication (Saturdays Only)

This programme is for those who want to improve their writing, public speaking, and communication skills. It is suitable for aspiring journalists, writers, corporate workers, or even students who want to develop confidence in communication.

Duration: 4 months (Saturdays only).

5. Training Workshops

NIJ also organizes short training workshops regularly. These workshops cover different areas of communication, journalism, media, advertising, and public relations. They are practical, interactive, and often led by industry experts.

Career Opportunities After NIJ

Studying at NIJ opens doors to many exciting opportunities. With your certificate, you can work as:

A newspaper or magazine reporter

A radio or TV broadcaster

A photojournalist

A media producer

A public relations officer

An advertising executive

A content creator or blogger

A communication consultant

Some graduates also go on to start their own photography studios, online news platforms, advertising agencies, or PR firms.

How to Apply

To apply, you need to obtain the admission form.

Forms can be obtained online via the official website.

For further enquiries, you can contact:

The Registrar, Nigerian Institute of Journalism

Address: 8-14, Ijaye Road, Ogba, Ikeja, Lagos

Phone: 0703 9221 173, 0805 9196 459, 0802 3252 756

Email: [email protected]

Conclusion

The Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ) is a place where passion meets professionalism. Whether you want to become a journalist, a broadcaster, a photographer, or a communication expert, NIJ provides the training, knowledge, and practical experience you need to succeed.

From the National Diploma to the Higher National Diploma, the Postgraduate Diploma, and the short-term professional courses, there is a programme for everyone, regardless of your level.

If you are interested in the media world, do not miss this opportunity. Admission is already in progress. Take the step today—get your form, apply, and start your journey into a successful media and communication career.