Earn Your Professional Writing Certificate Online

You know that writing matters. But did you know it’s a highly sought skill in our knowledge economy? If you’re a strong writer with a keen eye for detail or simply want training that will help you stand out from the competition, this undergraduate certificate in professional writing could be a perfect fit. 

This 100% online 18-credit program is a unique opportunity to earn certification for developing writing ability that you will use every day on the job. In high school and college, we learn how to write essays and reports. But we don’t necessarily learn how to communicate clearly and accurately in the professional world. 

You’ll learn how to write for business-minded audiences, how to edit for style and accuracy, and how to ensure every word matters. The program concludes with a capstone project – an independent study project or internship – that gives you an immersive experience in the world of a professional writer. 

 

Program type:

Undergraduate Certificate

Format:

100% Online

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Professional Writing Undergraduate Certificate

The online undergraduate certificate in professional writing is 100% online: no campus visits are required.

Courses are semester-based. Students typically take one to two classes per semester and finish the program in 1-2 years. Part-time students may take up to 4 years. This program includes a capstone project of either an independent writing project or writing internship.

Upon completing this program, you will receive an official certificate in professional writing. Your professional possibilities will expand. In nearly every industry, there is a need for professionals with outstanding skills in written communication.

Outcomes and Career Outlook

Nearly 45 percent of surveyed business leaders named writing proficiency the No. 1 hard skill contemporary college graduates lack in the most recent workforce preparedness report from PayScale and Future Workplace. Graduates of this program can seek employment in a variety of industries, including: 

  • Corporate communications
  • Content marketing
  • Publicity
  • Trade journal publishing
  • Book publishing

Certificate-holders have the following job titles:

  • Social media coordinator
  • Copyeditor
  • Editorial assistant
  • Associate editor
  • Content marketer
  • Content strategist
  • Corporate writer
  • Copy editor

 

Plan of study

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Non-Missouri Residents: Prospective students are responsible for reviewing the UMSL state authorizations page to see if this program is offered in their state throughout their program and to review the licensure or certification requirements for the state in which they reside.

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