Program Overview

Professional Writing Certificate

The 16-credit, all online Certificate in Professional Writing maximizes marketability by showcasing skills in writing and communication. There is a growing demand for professional or technical writers, but this certificate is also useful for job seekers in numerous career fields. The certificate differentiates individuals from other job applicants as it indicates an ability to:

• Communicate with purpose to a variety of audiences in differing contexts
• Understand and implement multiple workplace genres of writing

Classes in the Certificate in Professional Writing are offered entirely online to meet individual needs and can be completed in two years or less.

Course Guidelines

Due to variation in each school's curriculum, the following is merely a guideline of typical requirements. To determine the exact requirements for each program, students should work with their academic advisor to review each school to which they are applying.

Typical Course Requirements:

• ENG 331: Business Communications, 3 semester credit hours
• ENG 360: Scientific & Technical Writing, 3 semester credit hours
• ENG 361: Advanced Composition, 3 semester credit hours
• Choose one of the following:
  • ENG 251: Writing in Professions, 3 semester credit hours
  • ENG 351: Writing in Medical & Health Professions, 3 semester credit hours
  • PHIL 303: Ethical Issues in Professional Life, 3 semester credit hours
• Select four credits from the following:
  • ENG 204: Introduction to Journalism, 3 semester credit hours
  • ENG 289: Introduction to Professional Writing, 1 semester credit hour
  • ENG 305: Creative Non-Fiction Workshop, 3 semester credit hours
  • ENG 420: Copy Editing, 3 semester credit hours
  • ENG 460: Writing and New Media, 4 semester credit hours
  • ENG 499: Internship, 1-12 semester credit hours
• Total: 16 semester credit hours