Program Overview

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Master of Science in Professional Writing

The Master of Science in Professional Writing is a flexible, online degree that pairs the convenience of learning from any location with the quality of an NYU graduate degree. Our curriculum emphasizes real-world assignments and emerging technologies, helping students build a digital writing portfolio before graduation.

Program Overview

Through core and elective courses, students craft strategic content with measurable impact. The MS in Professional Writing prepares students for dynamic careers in leadership, freelancing, and beyond.

Tuition and Credits

• Tuition: $2,785 per credit, $27,562 per term (10-12 credits)
• Total credits: 36 credits
• Study options: Online, hybrid, or onsite
• Minimum duration: 12 months

Why This Degree?

The MS in Professional Writing offers students the opportunity to:

• Be the human voice in a world of AI-generated content
• Craft precision in every word
• Create radically empathetic writing
• Weave integrity into their words
• Be a chameleon of communication
• Bring proofreading finesse to every project

What You'll Study

The program includes:

• Core curriculum: Foundational courses that give students a firm command of the basics
• Electives: Courses that provide an extensive and nuanced understanding of the industry's specific styles
• Internship or directed study: Earn course credit for real-world experiences with professional internships or a mock-freelance directed study
• Thesis and digital portfolio: A final semester project that culminates in an original thesis and a professional-quality digital writing portfolio

Where You'll Go

Professional writing graduates use their skills in careers across industries, including:

• Anthem Inc.
• Cayuga Centers
• Columbia University
• Commerce Canal
• Dictionperfect
• Disney Trippers
• DudekFreelance
• General Service Administration
• HSBC
• Hudson MX
• Interactive One
• InvitaeNYU
• PCC Technology Inc.
• Physician's Computer Company
• Planned Parenthood
• Talent Inc.
• US Dept. of Veterans Affairs

Career Opportunities

Graduates can pursue careers as:

• Business Writer
• Content Specialist
• Digital Media Specialist
• Grant Writer
• Marketing Communications
• Philanthropic Communications
• Senior Science Writer
• Technical Editor
• Writer/Researcher

Application Deadlines

• Summer 2026 deadlines:
  • Priority: October 1, 2025, decision release December 15, 2025
  • Regular: January 15, 2026, decision release March 1, 2026
  • Final: March 15, 2026, decision release April 15, 2026
• Fall 2026 deadlines:
  • Priority 1: November 1, 2025, decision release December 15, 2025
  • Priority 2: January 15, 2026, decision release April 1, 2026
  • Regular: May 1, 2026, decision release June 15, 2026
  • Final: July 1, 2026, decision release July 15, 2026
• Spring 2027 deadlines:
  • Priority: August 1, 2026, decision release October 15, 2026
  • Regular: October 1, 2026, decision release November 15, 2026
  • Final: November 15, 2026, decision release December 20, 2026

Real World Experiences

The program offers:

• Build a digital portfolio from course work
• Develop technology-infused writing processes
• Join a robust online writing community
• Pivot into a passion-fueled career

Faculty

The program features industry-experienced faculty members who are leaders in their professions and care deeply about impacting the next generation of writers.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is professional writing?
• What is an MS in Writing?
• What sets the NYU SPS professional writing curriculum apart?
• How is NYU SPS working to embrace a responsible and productive use of AI?
• Who should apply for the MS in Professional Writing?
• Is a professional writing degree worth it?
• What industries hire professional writers?
• What kind of jobs do people with a master's in professional writing apply for?
• Why do I need a graduate degree in Professional Writing?
• Does every student graduate with a writing portfolio?
• How long does it take to earn an MS in Professional Writing?
• Is Financial Aid available for the MS in Professional Writing?
• What's unique about the MS in Professional Writing program at NYU School of Professional Studies?
• What are the benefits of our online Master's degree in Professional Writing?
• What will you learn in the online Master's degree in Professional Writing?
• Should I get an online master's degree?
• What master's degree do you need to be a writer?
• Should I get a master's degree in writing?