Well-Rounded
Our program includes classes in creative writing, literature and a complementary elective outside of the English department.
Effective writing is one of the most important skills to have in the modern workplace. In the English program with an emphasis on professional writing, you learn to study, analyze and compose for a diverse array of industries, including business, technical and scientific industries.
This new program develops a strong foundation in rhetorical concepts, ethics, methods and genres of professional writing. You will learn how to write in a wide range of genres and media and in an array of organizational settings, including non-profit, grassroots, government and for-profit companies. You will explore how organizations communicate internally and externally, while learning how to improve the overall user experience. You graduate with a versatile skillset and equipped to write in a variety of settings.
We will expose you to a wide range of professional writing courses, focusing on topics including analytical and persuasive writing, professional editing and visual rhetoric. You will complete additional coursework in diversity literature, creative writing and other English electives, giving you the flexibility to pursue classes matching your interests.
We want you to pursue classes relevant to your interests. We have a sample four-year plan for you to get an idea of what a student’s career is like at St. Thomas in our program.
Bachelor of Arts in English – Professional Writing
We place an emphasis on gaining practical experience. Because the focus of your writing takes place in organizations and communities, classes frequently have a service learning component or research project, allowing you to work with external partners to address real-world writing scenarios.
We will expose you to a wide range of professional writing courses, focusing on topics including analytical and persuasive writing, professional editing and visual rhetoric. You will complete additional coursework in diversity literature, creative writing and other English electives, giving you the flexibility to pursue classes matching your interests.
We want you to pursue classes relevant to your interests. We have a sample four-year plan for you to get an idea of what a student’s career is like at St. Thomas in our program.
Bachelor of Arts in English – Professional Writing
We place an emphasis on gaining practical experience. Because the focus of your writing takes place in organizations and communities, classes frequently have a service learning component or research project, allowing you to work with external partners to address real-world writing scenarios.
Not only do our faculty have years of experience and knowledge, but our students are utilizing their knowledge and skills every day in real-world situations.
Abby worked as an editorial assistant and took the Professional Editing course, both sharpening her attention to detail and ability to communicate new ideas to the writers. These skills directly translate to her professional career in project management, as she must be detail-oriented in scheduling and project analysis, while also communicating clear updates and recommendations to key stakeholders. Abby's study of professional writing provided her with countless skills that have propelled her into the world of project management with ease.
Taylor collaborated on a usability study in her Visual Rhetoric and Design course to determine how visuals might help the Metropolitan Council promote public awareness of residential vulnerabilities with climate change in the Twin Cities. She contributed to another project by mapping out different technologies, documents and practices in healthcare. Taylor’s study of scientific communication between organizations and the public has given her valuable practical experience.
We give you the tools and knowledge you need to work in a variety of different industries after graduation.
We offer a diverse array of courses that develop your skills in various areas, allowing you to be more flexible in your work after graduating from St. Thomas.
Our program includes classes in creative writing, literature and a complementary elective outside of the English department.
You gain practical experience in class through community partnerships, focusing on their communication needs.
We offer a range of classes that focus on topics like writing grants and proposals, business writing and writing for the sciences.
Dr. Davis researches digital writing work, digital advocacy, and the digital literacies that are part of technical and professional writing.
Dr. Sanchez researches spatial rhetoric (map, urban design) and the impact of technical writing on different demographics.
Our students have the chance to study abroad, meet visiting writers and collaborate with faculty on research.
The St. Thomas E-Learning and Research Center (STELAR) features technologies and workspaces for you to practice cutting-edge communication strategies for organizations.
You can work in the Center for Writing helping fellow students learn crucial skills in writing and communication, providing a foundation for a career in professional writing.
There is more to learn about St. Thomas; including our ranking as a Best Value School by U.S. News & World Report, the many classroom and extracurricular activities that will be part of your student experience and so much more. Schedule a visit to see our beautiful campus or start your application today.