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  MA Rhetoric
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PhD

Courses

The computer and the internet have revolutionized communications and the training of communications specialists. Until quite recently, professional and technical writers dealt primarily with the written word in print documents. Today, writers are thought of more as communications specialists with required expertise in a much wider range of media. Where once it was sufficient to write clear and effective prose, it is now necessary to create and execute complex information strategies involving both visual and verbal elements and media ranging from print to on-line to multi media. The goal of the MA in Professional Writing program is to prepare students for careers as writers, communications specialists, and information designers working in government, business, and industry in this new era.

Why then do we continue to call ourselves a writing program? The answer is quite simple: While we are strongly committed to preparing students to understand, use, and be creative in current and emerging media—and we provide a range of courses to help them do so—we are equally committed to the belief that strong writing skills are foundational to both current and as-yet-to-be-dreamed-of approaches to communication.

Thus, our core program emphasizes fundamental skills in rhetorical analysis, writing, editing, communication planning, and document design. Courses promote strong analysis and problem-solving skills, emphasize a research-based understanding of communication, and foster intellectual exploration and flexibility. They also provide ample opportunities to build a portfolio of professional-quality samples and to work on client and group projects that develop a range of professional skills. The core curriculum is enhanced by elective courses in a range of areas including information design for on-line and multimedia environments as well as more traditional courses. In sum, the program's blend of theory, research, and hands-on experience provides students with the means to become resourceful, multi-dimensional communication professionals, prepared to cope with changing and emerging technologies.