Why Writing Studies?

Writing Studies student being congratulated by instructors at 2017 commencement.

Writing is at the center of almost all forms of communication in our digital society. Despite claims to the contrary, people today are actually doing more writing than ever before. Increasingly, we use our phones not to talk but to type. Conversations and meetings have given way to texts and emails. Updates about politics, breaking news, scientific discoveries, and new technologies happen via social media posts. All of this information circulates rapidly across communities, cultures, and countries. In this way, writing in the 21st century is global, social, and digital.

Given the pervasive nature of writing in today’s workplace and professional settings, it’s hard to imagine a better time to consider a degree from the Department of Writing Studies. Graduates from our bachelor of science, master of science, and certificate programs are prepared for successful careers in technical writing and communication and are in high demand by companies both local and national. Our master of arts and doctorate graduates pursue careers in academic settings and become leaders in our field as college and university professors.

Students from across the University who major in other areas have found that taking classes in our department or adding a technical writing and communication minor enhances their degree programs and gives them an edge in today’s fast-growing science and technology industries. In our courses and programs, you will study theories of rhetoric and communication and apply principles of audience analysis, writing and editing, information design, oral communication, and visual rhetoric. You will learn to engage in writing as a process and examine writing within communities of practice. You will work with award-winning faculty, who are internationally recognized for their teaching and research.

All of our programs combine theory and practice in writing, communication, rhetoric, and digital media. Students examine the social, legal, ethical, and political implications of writing and communication related to areas such as science, environment, technology, and workplace practices.