Foundations of Professional Writing

The 14-credit Professional Writing badge builds the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary to write and edit effective professional documents and materials. Students who complete the certificate will gain experience with a range of genres (e.g., grant proposals, manuals, end-user documentation, press releases, catalogs, published articles, and essays), as well as the ability to work collaboratively with organizations.

Completed your requirements and ready to collect your badge? Apply to receive your micro-credential badge here.

Required Courses

ENG 295: Grammar in Context – 4 credits
or
ENG 395: Principles of English Grammar – 4 credits

ENG 327: Technical Writing – 4 credits
or
ENG 329: Grant Writing and Workplace Literacy – 4 credits

ENG 414: Writing for Publication – 4 credits
ENG 409: Professional Writing Practicum – 2 credits

Additional Requirements

• Minimum grade of B- in all courses contributing to the badge
• Portfolio is included as part of ENG 414 course requirements
• Professional writing project will take place as part of ENG 409 practicum

Learning Outcomes/Competencies

• Understand and effectively apply principles of English grammar to professional writing tasks across a variety of genres.
• Revise and edit writing—your own and others’—with greater confidence and effectiveness.
• Gain experience writing in a variety of professional genres (e.g., memos, reports, grant proposals, technical documents, articles for publication).
• Understand the ‘writing marketplace,’ and take steps towards defining yourself as a professional writer whose work is of value and interest to the reading public – and to the editors who serve as gatekeepers.
• Work effectively with organizations (non-profits, businesses, community organizations) to develop a written product (e.g., grant proposal, report, catalog, other documentation).
• Gain awareness of professional writing opportunities in our region and state.