Program Overview

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Nonfiction Writing and Publishing (Graduate Certificate)

The graduate certificate program in nonfiction writing and publishing teaches students the art of telling true stories. The program is based on the belief that work done within the university is most impactful when it can be shared in a clear and compelling way with audiences beyond one's chosen fields of research.

Program Description

In this interdisciplinary program, students read, study and write narrative nonfiction, including literary journalism, op-ed pieces, explanatory essays and memoirs. Students learn how to analyze the craft and stylistic decisions of professional and literary nonfiction writers and utilize these skills in their own work.

At a Glance

• College/school: College of Global Futures
• Location: Downtown Phoenix, Polytechnic, Tempe, West Valley
• STEM-OPT extension eligible: No

Degree Requirements

15 credit hours

• Required Core (6 credit hours)
  • HSD/HPS/HST 520 Masters of Nonfiction (3)
  • HSD 521 Writing True Stories that Matter (3)
• Electives (9 credit hours)

Admission Requirements

• General university admission requirements: All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
• Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the College of Global Futures.
• Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in any field from a regionally accredited institution.
• Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours or 90 quarter hours of their first bachelor's degree program or a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.
• All applicants must submit:
  • graduate admission application and application fee
  • official transcripts
  • writing sample
  • proof of English proficiency

Tuition Information

When it comes to paying for higher education, everyone’s situation is different. Students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options to find out which will work best for them.

Application Deadlines

• Fall:
  • Session A/C: In Person, Rolling
• Spring:
  • Session A/C: In Person, Rolling

Program Learning Outcomes

Program learning outcomes identify what a student will learn or be able to do upon completion of their program. This program’s learning outcomes include the following:

• Read, analyze, and synthesize works of journalistic or literary nonfiction and create individual works based on key concepts.
• Demonstrate an understanding of nonfiction writing and publishing conventions and the ability to write for diverse nonacademic audiences.

Career Opportunities

According to Forbes, storytelling is the most important skill in today's job market. Of the many sources of information in the world, people who write compelling stories are best heard. Graduates with this skill are more attractive to employers both in academia and the private sector. Expertise in writing and storytelling are in demand in many fields, including business, media, entertainment, politics and community organizations. Strong writers and vivid storytellers are particularly valuable to businesses and institutions relying on narrative-based strategies to engage and grow audiences online. Graduates may pair the certificate with other degrees to create stronger career opportunities. Career examples include:

• communications specialist
• content strategist
• editor
• public relations manager or specialist
• screenwriter
• social media manager
• video game designer

Program Details

ASU is not currently accepting applications for this program.