Degree: Master of Science

Program Coordinator: Charlotte Koomjohn (410) 830-2942

The program provides advanced study in the theory of writing, in writing techniques and style, in principles/techniques of editing, and in the functions of written communication within the professional/occupational setting. The program centers on (1) developing the communication skills of people seeking to enter or to advance in occupations requiring extensive written analysis and reporting of data and on (2) improving written communication and its management in professional organizations.

The program features two concentrations. Writing for the Public and Private Sectors provides experience in writing for a wide range of occupations. Writing in the Professions concentrates on an area of specialization: mass media, health professions, science, creative writing, or teaching writing.

Admission Requirements

1. A 3.0 is required for full admission; 2.5 for conditional admission.

2. Two letters of recommendation, preferably letters that speak to writing experience and capability.

3. Writing sample on a designated topic. Information on the writing sample and topic should be obtained from the Graduate Office or the program coordinator.

4. Based upon the applicant's undergraduate transcript and upon the writing sample, the department reserves the right to require two specified preparatory undergraduate writing courses, passed with the grade of "B" or higher in each course, for admission.

5. Application and all admission credentials must be submitted by March 1 for fall semester and by October 1 for spring semester.

6. NOTE: Upon admission to the program, the student must meet with the assigned advisor to plan a program of study.

Degree Requirements

Required Core (18 s.h.):

• WRIT 611 - Rhetoric: The Pursuit of Eloquence (3 s.h.)
• WRIT 613 - Theory of Exposition (3) This course must be taken within the first twelve hours of degree work.
• WRIT 615 - History and Development of Prose Style (3)
• WRIT 617 - Editing (3) This course must be taken within the first twelve hours of degree work.
• WRIT 619 - Communication in the Profit/Non-Profit Sectors (3)
• WRIT 691 - Research Techniques in Professional Writing (3)

Elective Core (18 s.h.)

• In addition to the required core each student completes an eighteen-hour elective program from Writing for the Public and Private Sectors or Writing in the Professions. Each concentration has a thesis and non-thesis option.