Program Overview

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Online B.S. in Writing and Rhetoric Studies

The University of Utah's online Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Writing and Rhetoric Studies degree program helps students become skilled writers who can craft compelling narratives, construct persuasive arguments, and analyze complex texts for any audience or purpose.

Program Overview

The ability to communicate is essential in every field, and no matter the primary focus, writing clearly and thinking critically enhances career prospects. The online rhetoric degree gives students the tools to write well across disciplines—from business and law to social sciences, activism, and beyond.

Credits Required

• 51 Credit hours (Major)
• 18 (Minor)

What Does It Cost

• $537.55/credit (Effective Fall 2025, subject to change without notice)

Learning Format

• Online

Start Terms

• Fall, Spring, and Summer

Why Choose UOnline’s Bachelor’s in Writing & Rhetoric Studies?

The program ensures students can meet the demands of any writing task. UOnline’s small class sizes and collaborative environment provide personalized support from faculty, helping students grow as writers and thinkers. Even as online students, they can access internships and real-world opportunities to put their skills into practice.

Application Deadlines

• Fall, Spring, and Summer Admission: Applications are open for the fall, spring, and summer terms. The fall deadline is April 1, the spring deadline is Nov. 1, and the summer deadline is March 1.

Writing and Rhetoric Studies Overview

At the University of Utah, courses combine the flexibility of online teaching with the advantages and direct engagement of traditional teaching. Interactive learning comes in various ways, including group assignments, contributions to discussion forums, and peer reviews.

Degree Type

Students may choose the Bachelor of Science (BS) in Writing and Rhetoric Studies from the College of Humanities, which is fully available online. The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Writing and Rhetoric Studies is attainable through on-campus language courses.

Program Information

• 51 Credit hours (Major): 42 hours in Writing and Rhetoric and 9 credit hours of allied work.
• Students need 120 credit hours, 40 upper division credit hours, and general education and Bachelor’s degree requirements to receive their diploma.
• The online program's flexibility allows for part-time study if needed.

Degree Requirements

Writing and Rhetoric Studies Major

All major courses must be completed with a C- or better. WRTG 2010 WR2 Intermediate Writing: Academic Writing and Research (or equivalent) is a prerequisite for the major.

Writing and Rhetoric Studies Minor

The writing and rhetoric studies minor consists of 18 credit hours, which includes two foundational courses and additional electives.

Transferring Credits

If students have earned an associate degree (typically 60 credit hours) and plan to complete the bachelor’s in writing and rhetoric studies degree program (51 credit hours), they will complete 111 credit hours. To meet the 120-credit requirement for a bachelor's degree, they must complete an additional 9 credit hours through another major or minor.

Tuition & Scholarships

Tuition for the bachelor’s in writing and rhetoric studies degree program is $537.55 (effective Fall 2025) per credit hour and is subject to change without notice.

Career Outcomes

A degree in writing and rhetoric studies equips students with essential skills that employers across many industries highly value. Strong writing, critical thinking, and communication abilities consistently rank among the most important capabilities in today's workforce.

Potential Roles

Graduates of the writing and rhetoric studies program enter roles that require clear and persuasive communication, including:

• Communications Coordinator
• Content Writer
• Editor
• Grant Writer
• Public Relations Specialist
• Social Media Manager
• Technical Writer

Further Your Education

A bachelor’s in writing and rhetoric studies also provides a strong foundation for graduate studies. Many students go on to pursue advanced degrees in fields such as:

• Communication Studies
• English
• Journalism
• Law
• Public Administration
• Rhetoric and Composition

Median Annual Wage

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that professional writers and authors earned a median salary of $73,690 in 2023.

Job Openings

According to the BLS, they anticipate 15,100 new writing jobs to become available each year over the next nine years.

Expected Growth

The BLS expects the writing occupation to grow by 5% through 2033.