Graduate
What Sets Our Programs Apart?
The Department of Writing Studies’ graduate programs are among the oldest and most highly respected of their kind in the country. We offer four graduate programs and three graduate minors, each tailored to meet distinct educational and career preparation goals. Our programs are divided into two categories: professional programs and research programs. Our students receive:
- opportunities to learn from award-winning faculty with expertise in areas like the rhetoric of health and medicine, computational rhetoric, digital literacy, and critical pedagogy;
- experiential learning with our Technical Communication Advisory Board; and
- strong programmatic support that centers accessibility, promotes inclusive learning communities, and celebrates a diverse range of career goals.
Professional Programs
We offer two fully online programs: a Post-Baccalaureate Certificate and a Master of Science in Technical Communication, tailored for working professionals seeking to enter or advance in technical communication. Graduates are equipped for careers and leadership roles in fields such as health, education, and software development. For students already enrolled in a master's program at the University of Minnesota, we also provide a professional minor in Technical Communication.
Research Programs
We offer two research graduate programs: a Master of Arts (MA) and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Rhetoric and Scientific & Technical Communication (RSTC). These residential programs are for those seeking expertise in rhetoric, writing studies, and technical communication. Graduates are prepared for careers in higher education, writing program administration, technical communication, and user experience. For current grad students, we also offer minors in RSTC and Literacy and Rhetorical Studies.
Connect with Us!
Our faculty and staff are here to help you identify the right graduate program for you!
| Graduate Programs Coordinator | Director of Graduate Studies |
|---|---|
|
Allie Cooperman (she/her/hers) Contact for questions related to admissions, program requirements, funding, and student support. |
Molly Kessler (she/her/hers) Contact for questions related to program fit, research areas and opportunities, and alignment with career goals. |
College Resources for Graduate Students
Visit CLA’s website for graduate students to learn about collegiate funding opportunities, student support, career services, and more.