GIMPA vs UPSA: Which Business School is Best in Ghana?

When it comes to business education in Ghana, two names stand out: the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA) and the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA). Both institutions are highly respected for producing top managers, business leaders, accountants, lawyers, and public administrators. But if you’re considering where to invest your time, money, and future, the big question remains:

👉 GIMPA vs UPSA — which is the better business school for you? Accra Street Journal analysis this.

1. Overview of Both Institutions

GIMPA (Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration)

• Established in 1961 as a training ground for civil servants.

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• Evolved into a comprehensive public university with strong emphasis on management, leadership, governance, law, and technology.

• Known for its executive programs, MBAs, governance-related training, and public service expertise.

• Main campus at Greenhill, Achimota – Accra, with satellite campuses in Kumasi, Takoradi, and Tema.

UPSA (University of Professional Studies, Accra)

• Established in 1965 as a private professional training school, later taken over by the state.

• Specializes in business, accounting, marketing, finance, communication, and law.

• First university in Ghana to blend academic degrees with professional certifications (ACCA, CIMA, CIM, ICAG, etc.).

• Located in East Legon, Accra, close to Accra Mall and Kotoka International Airport.

 2. Academic Programs

GIMPA Programs

• Undergraduate Degrees:

  • BSc Business Administration

  • BSc Accounting, Finance, Human Resource Management, Marketing

  • BSc ICT, Economics, Hospitality, and more.

• Postgraduate Degrees:

  • MBA (General, HRM, Marketing, Finance, Project Mgmt, Supply Chain, etc.)

  • Executive MBA (for mid-level professionals)

  • MPhil and PhD in Governance, Business Admin, Development Management.

• Professional Development: Short courses in leadership, governance, public administration, and executive training.

UPSA Programs

• Undergraduate Degrees:

  • BSc Business Administration

  • BSc Accounting, Banking & Finance, Real Estate Management, IT Management.

  • LLB (Law), BA Public Relations.

• Postgraduate Degrees:

  • MBA (Accounting, Marketing, Corporate Governance, Finance, Procurement).

  • MSc in Leadership, MSc in Accounting & Finance, MSc in Procurement Mgmt.

  • PhD in Marketing.

• Professional Courses:

  • ACCA, ICAG, CIMA, CIM, ICSA, etc. (Integrated with degree programs).

👉 Key Difference:

• GIMPA leans towards governance, leadership, public policy, and executive education.

• UPSA leans towards professional business certifications, accounting, law, and finance.

3. Admission Requirements

• GIMPA: Generally requires aggregate 24 or better for undergrad; postgraduate requires a first degree (2nd Class Lower minimum).

• UPSA: Same WASSCE/SSSCE cut-off but highly competitive for Law and Business Admin; also offers mature entry.

👉 International students are welcome at both, but UPSA tends to attract more West African applicants due to its professional courses integration.

 4. Fees & Affordability

• UPSA Fees (2025):

  • Undergraduate: GHS 2,500 – 5,000 per semester.

  • Postgraduate: GHS 8,000 – 15,000 per year.

  • International: $3,000 – $6,000 per year.

• GIMPA Fees (2025):

  • Undergraduate: GHS 4,000 – 7,000 per semester.

  • Postgraduate: GHS 12,000 – 25,000 per year (Executive programs cost more).

  • International: $4,000 – $7,500 per year.

👉 Verdict: UPSA is more affordable for students, while GIMPA is seen as more executive-oriented and premium.

 5. Reputation & Career Opportunities

• GIMPA:

  • Strong reputation in public service, governance, NGOs, and executive leadership.

  • Alumni include ministers, judges, CEOs, and government officials.

  • Well-respected for its Executive MBA and governance training.

• UPSA:

  • Strong reputation in finance, accounting, banking, corporate law, marketing, and PR.

  • Known for producing top accountants, bankers, and lawyers.

  • Graduates often combine degrees with ACCA, CIMA, or ICAG, making them highly employable.

👉 Verdict:

• If you want to work in government, leadership, and policy → GIMPA.

• If you want to work in corporate, banking, accounting, law, and marketing → UPSA.

6. Campus Life & Facilities

• GIMPA (Greenhill Campus):

  • Scenic, serene, executive environment at Achimota.

  • Popular with working professionals and executives.

  • Has conference centers, hotels, and executive hostels.

• UPSA (East Legon Campus):

  • Bustling, youthful campus atmosphere.

  • Located in a prime Accra location with access to malls, nightlife, hostels.

  • Student-centered with vibrant clubs, societies, and career fairs.

7. Which is Best for You?

• Choose GIMPA if:

  • You want to specialize in public administration, governance, policy, and executive leadership.

  • You are a working professional seeking executive training.

  • You want a prestigious MBA or Executive MBA.

• Choose UPSA if:

  • You want a business-related degree that combines with professional certifications.

  • You are interested in finance, law, accounting, banking, PR, or marketing.

  • You want affordable tuition and a vibrant student life.

Conclusion From Accra Street Journal

Both GIMPA and UPSA are excellent institutions shaping Ghana’s business and leadership landscape. Your choice should depend on your career goals, budget, and learning style.

👉 If you’re looking for governance and executive leadership, GIMPA may be your best bet. If you’re aiming for corporate careers in accounting, finance, law, or marketing, UPSA is unbeatable.

For a full breakdown of admissions, fees, and program details, check out our dedicated guides on Accra Street Journal.

Source: Accra Street Journal

Last Updated on December 6, 2025 by Samuel Kwame Boadu

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Samuel Kwame Boadu

Samuel Kwame Boadu is a Ghanaian media entrepreneur and storyteller with a passion for amplifying urban voices and uncovering everyday truths. He is the Editor-in-Chief and Founder of Accra Street Journal, a dynamic digital platform dedicated to capturing the pulse of Ghana’s capital—its people, culture, challenges, business, sports and innovations.

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