Certificate in Technical and Professional Writing

The Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Technical and Professional Writing is designed for students seeking advanced preparation for technical and professional writing careers in fields that regularly recruit new writers, editors, publishing assistants, or promotional talents. The program is especially targeted to those who are already working and wish to strengthen their technical and professional writing skills, learn about new media and how it affects communication and excel in writing across disciplines.

The Technical and Professional Writing Certificate is ideal for those who are looking to advance in their current position, learn new skills, or change careers. It leads to a Certificate awarded by the Graduate School and a designation on the official transcript. Should students wish to pursue a graduate degree, the courses in the Certificate can be applied toward a Masters of Arts in English.

Virtual Open House

Wednesday, May 17: 5-6pm

Join us at one of our upcoming virtual Graduate School Open House events on Zoom! You'll have the opportunity to learn more about Western Carolina University,  understand the Graduate School application process, and meet key program representatives.

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Admission requirements are the same as Graduate School Admission Requirements. Students must apply and be accepted into the certificate program in order for the Certificate to be conferred upon completion of coursework. 

The program requires 15 hours of coursework:

Required Courses (6 hours)-These courses are offered alternately every fall semester. Students need to make sure they enroll in these courses when they are offered to earn the Certificate in Technical and Professional Writing within two years.

• ENGL 605 – Advanced Issues in Technical and Professional Writing
• ENGL 607 – Technical and Professional Editing

Technical and Professional Writing Courses (9 hours)

• ENGL 501 – Writing for Careers
• ENGL 529 -  Scientific Writing/Medical Writing
• ENGL 589 – Co-op: Writing and Editing
• ENGL 603 – Proposal and Grant Writing
• ENGL 604 – Writing in Electronic Environments
• ENGL 606 -  Nonfiction Writing
• ENGL 618 -  Research Methods in English
• Other English electives are also available

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