Program Overview

Plain Language for the Public Sector

Course Overview

This micro-credential course provides students with knowledge and practice in plain language communication, focusing on learning to communicate in a clear, simple, and user-focused manner for a public sector setting. The goal of this course is to offer students the opportunity to develop a skill often sought after by public sector employers and valuable for work within such institutions.

Course Structure

The course consists of 5 modules aimed at helping students learn how to effectively communicate within the public sector. The modules and their learning objectives are:

• Module 1: What is Plain Language?
  • Learn the definition, history, rationale, and common misconceptions of plain language communication.
• Module 2: Plain Language Processes
  • Learn the process for creating plain language communications by considering your audience, purpose, and subject, and reviewing and reflecting on your work.
• Module 3: Plain Language Practices
  • Learn basic practices for creating plain language communications, from clear and correct writing to concise language and simple style, organization information, and inclusive language.
• Module 4: Plain Language Examples
  • Review structures and examples of public sector communications such as briefing notes, press releases, letters, web content, and legal documents.
• Module 5: Recap & Assessment
  • Demonstrate your ability to communicate in plain language and your understanding of the course material.

Course Details

• The course is online and asynchronous.
• It takes approximately 12 hours to complete.
• Sessions are offered:
  • May 11 - July 24, 2026
  • September 14 - November 27, 2026
• Cost:
  • $195 for community members
  • Free for current Trent undergraduate students
  • Trent alumni qualify for a 10% discount
  • Current Trent staff and faculty receive 20% off

Evaluation

To earn this micro-credential, students must:

• Complete modules 1-4 by watching content videos, accessing resources, and working through self-learning interactive activities.
• Complete and achieve a passing grade (80% or higher) on module quizzes (modules 1-4).
• Complete the Module 5 Assessment.

Prerequisites

There are no formal prerequisites for this course. However, it is recommended for students and community members who work or plan to work in the public sector.

Conclusion

Students will leave this course with the knowledge of how to communicate in a clear, simple, and user-focused manner for a public sector setting.