Professional Writing

The English department offers an undergraduate certificate in professional writing that is open to students enrolled in undergraduate degree programs at NDSU. The certificate in professional writing offers students the opportunity to develop their written, oral, and digital communication skills in workplace, public, and/or online contexts.

The professional writing certificate promotes competencies such as written communication, visual communication, project planning, interpersonal communication, teamwork, content development and management, and reviewing and editing that can be tailored to students’ academic majors and professional goals. As a professional credential, the certificate is suited for those interested in distinguishing themselves through developing their writing skills across a variety of careers, from professional writers to professionals who write, including technical writing, publishing and editing, grant writing, business and management, healthcare, marketing, education, and research.

Each student enrolled in the certificate program will be asked to submit a professional development and reflection essay upon completion of the 9 credits in which they must be able to list the goals established for the program beforehand and, after completion, how those goals were met.