The School of Journalism and Digital Media (SJDM) at the University of The Gambia offers a rigorous and practice-oriented Bachelor of Science in Journalism which is designed to equip students with the skills and mindset required to excel in today’s fast-evolving media ecosystem.
With a strong focus on hands-on learning, the programme prepares students to thrive as reporters, broadcasters, editors, content creators, media managers, and public relations communicators both locally and internationally.
Established in October 2014, SJDM is one of the newest additions to UTG’s growing list of faculties and is housed at the UTG Kanifing Campus. It provides a supportive and professionally stimulating learning environment, featuring a well-equipped digital lab and multimedia editing studio where students access production equipment such as cameras, editing software, computers, and high-speed internet. The School also partners with the Gambia Radio and Television Services (GRTS) and several other media houses to facilitate student internships and organize practical field visits that expose learners to real-world journalism and broadcasting environments.
Students are eligible to graduate upon completing 120 credit hours over the four-year programme. The curriculum is designed to provide comprehensive exposure to the world of journalism and digital media, culminating in a final research project under the supervision of a faculty member.
With a combination of professional academic depth and job market readiness, SJDM continues to play a vital role in shaping the next generation of journalists in The Gambia and beyond.
Tuition at the School of Journalism and Digital Media is GMD 38,000 per year for Gambians and $4,950 for international students. Students may pay in full or in installments. An additional GMD 1,200 ($20) is charged annually to cover Union, Development, Technology, and Library fees.
Note: students must pay at least 40% of their semester fees to be granted access to the portal for registration.
Payments can be made at Trust Bank Ltd., (Acc. No. 110-019782-01) GTBank, (Acc NO. 201102898110) or EcoBank (Acc. No. 6280515796) branches nationwide. Once completed, the university receives confirmation and grants full academic access to students.
Candidates must have 5 Credits including English and a pass in Math. In the absence of a credit in Maths, a credit in any other science subject can be substituted. Candidates with certificates and Diplomas in Journalism (or related fields) or have been practicing will have an added advantage.
Applicants who hold certificates or diplomas in Journalism or related fields, or those with relevant professional experience in the media industry, will be given additional consideration during the selection process
The Journalism Students Association (JSA) serves as the official student body representing all journalism students at the University of The Gambia. Functioning under the umbrella of the UTG Students’ Union, JSA plays an active role in promoting student welfare, academic enrichment, and professional development within the School of Journalism and Digital Media.
The association leads initiatives that align with the academic, creative, and industry-oriented interests of journalism students. Throughout the academic year, JSA organizes a range of engaging activities, including debates, pageantry, media workshops, and student competitions.
It also facilitates occasional academic excursions and field visits within and outside the country. The association maintains strategic collaborations with key institutions such as the Gambia Press Union, Amnesty International, Freedom House, the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and Fact-Check Center The Gambia, depending on the relevance of ongoing programmes.
JSA continues to be a vibrant and dynamic platform for student expression, leadership, and collaboration; empowering aspiring journalists with exposure, industry access, and a strong voice within the school and university community.
Dr. Morolake Omowumi Adekunle