The Ghana Institute of Journalism (GIJ) will admit the first batch of students for its postgraduate degree programs in September this year. The institute has secured accreditation for six postgraduate programs from the National Accreditation Board. The programs are Masters in Development Communication, Media Management, Political Communication, Journalism, Public Relations and Advertising. The Rector of the Institute, David Newton announced this at a special congregation in Accra. He said the institute will severe its affiliation with the University of Ghana beginning 2013 because it has its own charter that enables it to award its own degrees. He was however grateful to the University of Ghana for the years of mentorship. A Pro-Vice Chancellor at the University of Ghana, Professor John Gyapong conferred degrees and diplomas on 99 students who graduated. A total of 17 students obtained first class honors, 37 had second class upper whilst 44 had second lower honors. Only one person graduated with a third class degree.