Professional Writing
The ENGLISH MAJOR WITH AN EMPHASIS IN PROFESSIONAL WRITING combines classroom instruction with practical experience to teach students how to communicate effectively in professional environments. Through client-based projects and an internship, students will build a professional portfolio that demonstrates their writing, editing, design, and research skills to prospective employers. This 44-credit hour major allows students the time to explore other concentrations in English or pair their major program with a second major or a minor to gain a secondary area of expertise.
WHAT WILL I STUDY?
The English major with an emphasis in professional writing combines classroom instruction with hands-on, job-related experience. Students develop skills in coursework in professional and technical writing, research, and editing that prepares them to communicate in a variety of media and discourses. Learning to communicate effectively through group projects and client-based projects is a central focus of this emphasis. The students in this emphasis gain skills in content creation, editing, and design that will be valuable in both business and non-profit settings. The professional habits and know-how that students learn equip them to adapt as the professional writing and editing fields continue to evolve.
WHAT CAREERS CAN I PURSUE?
Students with this emphasis pursue a variety of careers in writing and editing in both business and non-profit settings. After completing the internship required for this degree, students learn how to apply their skills in professional contexts. Students will learn how to navigate the complexities of the job market in our senior level Career Development course, where they will explore career options while honing materials for their next step. Our alumni work in a variety of settings, including careers as social media managers, web developers, web content writers, marketing analysts, technical writers, science writers, promotional writers, business analysts, communications coordinators, and more.