Employers consistently rank communication skills at the top of the list of key qualities they would like college graduates to possess, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers in 2010. The ability to write clearly and correctly remains important for many jobs, not just in the writing and editing professions. Many colleges and universities offer writing courses online, either singly or as part of a graduate certificate or degree program.
Professional Writing
Professional writing courses expose students to situations typically encountered in the business world. Students learn how to write in a variety of styles and formats, including copywriting, public relations and web content. Chatham University offers an online master’s degree in professional writing, and Murray State University and Arcadia University both have an online graduate certificate program.
Technical Writing
Technical writing focuses on presenting technical information so that it is easily understood, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. This type of writing is often associated with the computer, engineering and information-technology industries. Texas Tech University and Utah State University both offer online master’s degrees programs in technical communication, as well as a PhD program at Texas Tech. Kansas State University has a graduate certificate program in technical and professional writing.
Writing Instruction for Teachers
Teachers looking for professional development courses or graduate degree programs can take online courses in writing instruction. In these programs, teachers learn how to teach writing to students. The University of Wisconsin-Stout offers graduate credits for courses in teaching and assessing writing. The University of Arizona has an online graduate certificate program in reading instruction that incorporates writing as well.
Creative Writing
There are more than 300 creative writing programs in North America, with concentrations in poetry, fiction and creative non-fiction. The choices range from single courses to the Masters of Fine Arts degree in writing. Some schools, such as Naropa University and the New School have online writing programs. Many other schools have low-residency MFA programs which enable students to earn a degree while spending only a short time on campus. These include Antioch University and Vermont College.
Focus on Your Goals
Writing courses can be taken singly or as part of a graduate degree or certificate. Even a single writing course can enhance your résumé and improve your job prospects. Look for schools that allow you to apply the single courses to a later degree or certificate program. If you are interested in a highly-ranked program but need to improve your academic record, take a few writing courses first at a smaller school. You will gain experience and valuable references for a future writing program application. Most of all, research the program well before starting to ensure that it matches your short- and long-term career goals.
Sources
- Job Outlook 2010. Bethlehem, PA: National Association of Colleges and Employers, 2009.
- Poets & Writers. "MFA Programs." Accessed June 3, 2011. http://www.pw.org/content/mfa_programs.
- U.S. News & World Report. "How to Maximize an Online Education Program." Accessed June 3, 2011. http://www.usnews.com/education/articles/2010/04/15/how-to-maximize-an-online-education-program.
- U.S. News & World Report. "Accredited Online College Courses & Degree Programs from Top Universities." Accessed June 3, 2011. http://www.usnewsuniversitydirectory.com.
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