Program Overview

English, Research Writing in the Humanities and Social Sciences

The course is intended for second-cycle students who write academic prose in English. Diverse academic text genres and writing strategies for L1 and L2 are studied with a starting point in a research survey of the research field of academic writing. By examining such research on rhetoric, conventions and stylistics, and then applying the knowledge thus acquired to their own writing, the students will develop a broader repertoire of writing strategies. The course is focused on linguistic aspects in English that present particular challenges in academic writing. Such aspects will be explored from a functional perspective, for example the specific challenges often encountered when writing about other people's research or academic works. The course also explores digital tools that can support the writing of texts and lexical precision. Continuous writing and response exercises are part of the course and the teacher will provide feedback throughout the course. Ideally, students should be in a 'writing phase' of their academic studies.

Course Details

• Type: Course, second cycle
• Study pace: 25%
• Study location: Varied
• Type of studies: Distance only (no required meetings)

About the Course

The course is designed to help students develop a broader repertoire of writing strategies, with a focus on linguistic aspects in English that present particular challenges in academic writing.

Eligibility

One of the following alternatives:

• Bachelor's degree (180 credits)
• 90 university credits, of which at least 7.5 credits must come from an independent project, or equivalent qualifications
• Proficiency in English equivalent to Swedish upper secondary course English B/6

Selection

Academic credits

Application and Tuition Fees

• Application fee: SEK 900
• Tuition fee, first instalment: SEK 12,075
• Total fee: SEK 12,075

Course Outline

• Starts: 1 September 2025
• Ends: 18 January 2026
• Number of credits: 7.5 credits
• Type of studies: Web-based (online)
• Mandatory meetings: No mandatory meetings
• Other meetings: None
• Study pace: 25%
• Teaching hours: Mixed
• Study location: Varied
• Language: English
• Application code: UMU-14189

Outline for Distance Course

The medium of instruction is English. All communication is via the course learning platform. Access to a computer with broadband internet connection is required for participating in and completing the course tasks.

Good to Know

• A step-by-step guide to apply for studies at Umeå University.
• Essential information for your journey to Umeå and your studies here.
• A study counsellor can help you with many of your study-related questions.