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Master's Degree in Professional Writing...FYI

phillyphilly

phillyphilly

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BGOL-

This is FYI only. I think this is an excellent program; if not for professional advancement, self-enrichment could be the goal of such a program:

Why Earn a Degree in Professional Writing?

Do you have a passion, or at least an aptitude, for the written word? Do you want to have a focus in your education, yet you want to maintain several open doors for employment? A Master's Degree in Professional Writing may be just the educational experience for you. This degree teaches you about many types of writing by more than just scratching the surface. You learn through experience in many of the major styles. With the written word being used in nearly every occupation whether you major in it or not, you will take confidence knowing you are comfortable in whatever writing situation you face. Furthermore, the assortment of occupations ensures that you will find some niche which you enjoy in the realm of writing.

Career Possibilities
Occupational Outlook

Writers exist in a large variety of environments from business to government to entertainment. Some of the many job occupations include editor, grant/proposal writer, news writer, copywriter, syndicated columnist, scientist/medical writer, author, critic, ghostwriter, speechwriter, technical writer, political writer, and many others. The Bureau of Labor Statistics BLS, www.bls.gov, states that the occupation of writers/editors in general is expected to grow as fast as the average occupation through the year 2014.

Salary Information

According to www.salary.com, the average annual income for an entry-level technical writer is $43,062 as of July 2007 reportings. The average annual income for a grant/proposal writer is $48,309. The average annual income for a speech writer is $66,015, and the average annual income for a medical writer is $50,509.

Degree Specifics
Coursework Requirements

The following list of courses represents just some of the many courses available/required in a Master's of Professional Writing Program:

Technical Writing
Applied Writing
Language and Its Use
Feature Writing
Fiction Writing
Organization Managing Writing
Persuasive Writing and Speaking
Technical and Business Editing
Rhetorical Theory
Web Content Development
Stylistics
Screen and Television Writing
Academic and Professional Editing
Document Design and Desktop Publishing

Be aware that some concentrations (such as technical and medical writing) require or at least encourage you to have a second degree in the particular area of work you intend to go into. Having the second degree increases your chances of obtaining a job in that particular area. For example, if you intend to do technical writing for the semiconductor industry, an associate's degree (or higher) in electronics will give you the technical background to work in that industry.

Skills You Will Learn

By the time you graduate, you should be fully equipped with several varieties of writing expertise. You can use these skills to obtain a job in your respective concentration or area of interest, or you can continue your education. You will be able to contribute to the world of writing in the professional, academic, and business realm as well as the creative realm.
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phillyphilly said:
BGOL-

This is FYI only. I think this is an excellent program; if not for professional advancement, self-enrichment could be the goal of such a program:
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this is something that i could & would put to use in a variety of ways...... would you happen to have a listing of school & online programs that offer this program, length of time that it takes to complete........

you usually post detailed info... but this is a good ass post... surprised more people havent hit this up.........
 
I do have a school that offers this online and is regionally, as well as nationally accredited. I have thought about attending, but only on a half time basis, for I am still walking through the PhD thing.
 
http://www.chatham.edu/ccps/profwriting/

Professional Writing

Chatham University's online Master of Professional Writing program is a broad-based course of study that leads to a unique, professional degree. Students take a series of courses that expose them to a variety of organizational, executive and technical writing challenges and culminate in a final project designed to unify and focus students’ newly honed skills.

By bringing together students with a variety of different backgrounds and interests and engaging in a broad-based curriculum, the MPW offers an educational experience that more accurately reflects the realities of today’s shifting and expanding business world. Students will gain experience working in a variety of business formats and discourses and will be prepared to assume positions that demand highly-developed communication skills such as technical writer, content developer for the web, public relations specialist, advertising copywriter, freelance journalist and more.
 
moblack said:
Sounds like a bullshit degree that brings in bullshit pay
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It is the same as a MA in English with a concentration on writing. Nothing is different. Most English degrees are of a literature nature, and they do not concentrate on writing skills.
 
I am well versed and in tuned with what is a diploma mill and a recognized institution, so I will not attempt to push "bullshit" education to people.
 
phillyphilly said:
I am well versed and in tuned with what is a diploma mill and a recognized institution, so I will not attempt to push "bullshit" education to people.
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phillyphilly said:
It is the same as a MA in English with a concentration on writing. Nothing is different. Most English degrees are of a literature nature, and they do not concentrate on writing skills.
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Paper mill or not MA in English or Writing is just the path to being a HS school English Teacher who's mad that they're book didn't blow up. :smh:
 
moblack said:
Paper mill or not MA in English or Writing is just the path to being a HS school English Teacher who's mad that they're book didn't blow up. :smh:
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LOL. I have a MA in English, and have done well without teaching. I taught for a year or so in the traditional since of the word, but wanted to do my own thing.

With a professional writing degree the sky is the limit when it comes to the professional job market. Construct, persuade, convince, analyze, etc in a manner that only a select few can and are able to perform. Corporate communications officers are also writing demanded and those who do it must have a strong command in the area of communication and writing...

But this is only my 2 cents, and as such many have other opinions on this matter, such as yourself. But the only thing would be to research a little before closing the door on those who may have a desire to educate themselves in this world of writing.
 
Also, besides the list below, I am sure there are a multitude of other professions, either your own or working for others that one can do...and not only do, but be great at.

Technical Writing
Applied Writing
Language and Its Use
Feature Writing
Fiction Writing
Organization Managing Writing
Persuasive Writing and Speaking
Technical and Business Editing
Rhetorical Theory
Web Content Development
Stylistics
Screen and Television Writing
Academic and Professional Editing
Document Design and Desktop Publishing
 
I am hearing 12-21,000 depending on any grants you may get, or if your employer is paying for it. Also if any undergraduate courses migrate over, it will be cheaper.
 
moblack said:
Paper mill or not MA in English or Writing is just the path to being a HS school English Teacher who's mad that they're book didn't blow up. :smh:
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you obviously lack the option of creativity in your field..teacher make excellent pay & can become corporate instructors and make even more money & make the best authors of childrens books, educational journal,movie/tv projects...... dont quit ya job @ burger king!!!!
 
How to Get a Master's Degree in Writing

Take a lifelong love of reading and writing to a graduate level with a master's degree in writing. With a master's in writing, you choose among professional and artistic training to learn more about the profession that fascinates you.
How to Earn a Master's Degree in Writing

Whether you're looking for a creative writing MFA or a professional technical writing MA or MATC, it's important to take some time to research potential schools. The research process is essential for you as a potential student; it gives you a chance to learn more about writing schools across the country, shape your own preferences, and ultimately guide your application process.

Step 1: Consider Different Types of Writing Degrees

As a prospective writing master's degree student, you have a lot of options in terms of your future degree. From professional writing degrees to studio-based workshop study to theory and research, your interests should guide your degree choice. Consider the different degree types you can earn:
Master of Arts (MA): Students of MA programs in writing typically mix writing practice with theory and research. The MA is not considered a terminal degree, and graduates often go on to earn a PhD before teaching in higher education.
Master of Fine Arts (MFA): The studio-based MFA degree offers workshops and instruction on the art of writing. The MFA is still considered a terminal degree by many colleges and universities, though the rising popularity of the PhD in creative writing is changing the way some hiring managers in community colleges and universities view the MFA among applicants.
Master of Professional Writing (MPW): A relatively new addition to writing degrees, the MPW teaches art and craft with an emphasis on working as a professional in the field after graduation. Forms like screenwriting, literary non-fiction, fiction, and poetry are stressed in an interdisciplinary approach.
Master of Technical Communication (MATC): This professional degree prepares students to work in technical writing fields. Theories of rhetoric, composition, and information technology applications are emphasized.
Because no one degree is superior to the rest, you should pick the degree or degrees that work best with your career goals and personal interests. Note that MPW and MATC degrees are a somewhat rare distinction, and may be bundled into MFA or MA programs. Learn more about writing majors in general with WorldWideLearn.com's guide to writing majors.

Step 2: Think About Writing Master's Degree Specializations

After you've considered the different degrees you can pursue, it's time to research the specializations you'll find within a writing master's degree. Here are a few of the most popular specializations found within a writing MA, MFA, MPW, or MATC:
Fiction
Literary Non-Fiction
Poetry
Screenwriting
Playwriting
Technical Writing
Children's Writing
Professional Writing
Food Writing
Whether you're interested in working as a restaurant reviewer, a freelance music critic, a novelist, or another type of writer, you can explore and expand your concept of the craft and the profession with a master's degree. Narrow your focus with a specialization, or keep your options broad and learn more about the career as a whole. With a master's degree in writing, the choice is yours.

Step 3: Consider Different Course Delivery Methods

No two writing master's degree programs are alike. The differences start in the way you can earn the degree itself. While the thought of a master's degree might have you picturing hours in a classroom, today's master's degree programs offer a range of options to students. Take a look at a few popular writing master's degree course delivery methods:
Online master's degree in writing: Earn a master's degree online and complete your course of study from anywhere in the world. Students who like to work independently, working adults, and those who travel frequently enjoy this learning method.
Low-residency master's degree in writing: The low-residency master's degree in writing, typically offered with an MFA, gives students a chance to come together for a focused course of study, spending a few weeks or months together with peers and professors over the year before returning home to work and study independently.
Campus-based master's degree in writing: This traditional model requires classroom attendance and features face-to-face interaction with fellow students and faculty. Students enjoy workshops and the community aspect of a campus-based degree program.
Again, your preferences as a student help dictate the type of course delivery method you enjoy best. Learn more about individual programs and you can create a picture of the type of writing master's degree you hope to earn. Learn more about online education using WorldWideLearn.com's E-learning essentials page.

Step 4: Compile a List of Potential Writing Master's Degree Programs

When you've looked at course delivery methods and determined your basic needs as a student, you can begin to compile a list of preferred master's degree programs in writing. Your initial list should have a range of schools and might include both campus-based and online master's degree programs. Use these resources to get started:
WorldWideLearn.com maintains two listings for master's degrees in writing: online writing master's degrees, and campus-based writing master's degrees. Specializations include technical writing, creative writing, and children's book writing, with both MA and MFA writing options.
Poets & Writers maintains a list of the top fifty MFA program rankings. Schools are ranked by votes, poetry, fiction, nonfiction, funding, selectivity, and postgraduate placement.
See more MFA writing programs offered by Poets & Writers. Rankings are created by a voting system and may not fully represent a program's quality or fit with individual students.
The Society for Technical Communication maintains an academic programs database, searchable by degree level, country, and state. You can restrict your search to technical writing degree programs offering only online degrees.
These potential programs all offer different options for you as a student. After you've confirmed the accreditation of each school on your list, you can begin to narrow down your options to the strongest schools.

Step 5: Determine Master's Degree Program Accreditation Status

Now that you've established a list of potential writing master's degree programs, it's time to confirm the current accreditation status of each school on your list. Accreditation is the process by which a third-party agency measures a school for quality. Accreditation agencies measure schools by examining:
Financial records
Hiring practices
Academic records
Faculty quality
If a school passes this process and becomes accredited, it is recognized as a quality source of education. Both campus-based and online master's degree programs are subject to accreditation, which gives you the power to control your education's quality. Make sure each school on your list is accredited and you'll enjoy a range of benefits:
Eligibility for federal financial aid, including grants and loans
Confidence that your degree is recognized by hiring managers and schools
Quality education recognized by the U.S. Department of Education
Confirming accreditation is essential. Fortunately, it's simple to check every school on your list. Use the U.S. Department of Education's searchable database to look up schools by name or location. For more information on accreditation, see WorldWideLearn.com's accreditation answers page.

Step 6: Focus Your List of Writing Master's Degree Programs

At this point, you should have confirmed the accreditation status of each school on your list. Now, you can narrow down your options for writing master's degree programs. Consider your long list in terms of a few simple categories, and your preferences as a student will emerge. Use these categories to personalize your list of potential schools:
Application: Every writing degree program comes with its own application requirements. You may need to provide undergraduate transcripts, GRE and TOEFL test scores, professional recommendation letters, a resume, and more. Organize your applications to meet each deadline.
Rankings: Program rankings, like those published by Poets & Writers, are one way to begin your writing program search. As your search continues, remember that rankings aren't the final word on a school's quality. Think about program rankings along with elements like application, location, cost, faculty, and your personal preferences.
Aesthetic: When it comes to MFA writing programs, each school has its own personal aesthetic for writers. Look for schools that feature coursework, faculty publications, or graduate publications that appeal to you, and seek out a program with a style that matches your own.
Cost: Elements like cost of living, tuition, and fees can make your master's degree add up. Consider financial aid options such as loans, grants, stipends, and scholarships. One school could offer a teaching stipend and training, while another might waive out-of-state tuition. Think about the expenses involved with each program and look for a school that offers you an attractive financial aid package.
Faculty: Learn about the professors who will help shape your writing master's degree. Read faculty publications in order to learn more about faculty members in your writing program. In technical writing programs, check out faculty biographies and professional publications. Overall, try to choose strong departments instead of basing your interest on a single faculty member who might go on a writing sabbatical or leave entirely.
Other Perks: After considering the essential categories, think about the extras offered by each writing department. You might be tempted with especially interesting coursework, teacher training, internships, and other perks. This last category may help you weed out a few programs, leaving the strongest on your list.
Personalize your writing degree to your needs as a student. This step of the process takes time and research, but it's essential to your happiness as a student. After you've thought about different elements within each writing program, you'll have learned more about each school on your list as well as enhanced your own preferences. Use this knowledge to begin the application process.

Step 7: Apply for Writing Master's Degree Programs

By now, you should be ready to send applications to the top writing programs on your list. You've completed the research process and learned more about each school and your individual preferences. As you complete your applications, keeping the following in mind:
Personalization: Think about each school as you write your application letters. Some writing programs place a heavier weight on graduate test scores like the GRE, while others are more interested in your writing sample and goals. Let your multifaceted strengths shine by varying your application letter for each school.
Preferences: Just as you have your own preferences for master's degree programs in writing, writing programs themselves are likely to have a preference. Some MFA programs may prefer traditional writers, while others lean toward experimental work. Recognize that a school's preferences for students does not reflect on your quality as a writer.
Deadlines: Keep up with important deadlines throughout the application process. Each school may have different deadlines for application packets, transcripts, and test scores. Use a calendar to keep track of the deadlines and stay on top of the detailed process.
In your search for the best writing master's degree programs, the research process takes time. You'll find the rewards of your work when you enroll in an MA, MFA, MATC, or MPW program that inspires you as a writer and truly suits your personality.
 
mailboxpimp said:
you obviously lack the option of creativity in your field..teacher make excellent pay & can become corporate instructors and make even more money & make the best authors of childrens books, educational journal,movie/tv projects...... dont quit ya job @ burger king!!!!
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You learn that little jab in your writing class? Teachers don't make excellent pay for what they do. They are underpaid and overworked. I know I did it for a few years. Teachers have some of the most education and training and aren't compensated for it. Retirement is another story.
 
melonpecan said:
Can you please provide us with that link?
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PhD Professional Writing-English:

http://englishphd.digitalodu.com/index.php

PhD Professional Writing-

http://englishphd.digitalodu.com/curriculum.php


Professional Writing and New Media. This field is designed for those in education and industry who wish to study the connections between discourse and technology. It emphasizes analyzing professional writing and new media from rhetorical, historical, theoretical, pedagogical, practical, and research perspectives. Courses examine advanced document design, usability studies, and digital literacy issues. Through theoretical exploration and experiential learning, the program prepares graduates for leadership roles in technical and professional communication, composition instruction and administration, and software development.
 
If you work for a large company/corporation, look into blog writing for them. This pays extremely well. I know of only one person who went through the MPW program and landed a job doing this.

As far as the PhD in Professional Writing, I can only assume you could write for the white house, or for international agencies. Many people in government need speech writers; a PhD in Professional Writing will almost guarantee you a position in such.
 
Dude...I've placed a few tech writers, back inmy search days, and many of whom had MA's writing,Avg starting salary 75- 90k.



moblack said:
Paper mill or not MA in English or Writing is just the path to being a HS school English Teacher who's mad that they're book didn't blow up. :smh:
Click to expand...
 
fuck.i have to get my B.A first...fucking philly always making these MA threads.FUCK!good post though.
 
phillyphilly said:
Is this something your interested in doing? I find that whatever job you work at, this WILL provide greater room for advancement.
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Thanks for that link.

I have a BA in English so anything in professional and / or technical writing is right up my alley. I'd like an online program but something fairly close in my home state.


I do know that Fort Valley State University , (an HBCU btw), does offer an online BA in the field :


http://online.fvsu.edu/onlinedegrees.html
 
NinjaspiT said:
fuck.i have to get my B.A first...fucking philly always making these MA threads.FUCK!good post though.
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If this is something you really want to do, I would follow this path:


B.A. Technical and Professional Writing per melonpecan

MA Professional Writing

PhD English, Professional writing

I do not think you can lose with this path.

My path is in the same realm, but slightly off-track:

BA English

MA English/Humanities

PhD Humanities (On-going)

But after close consideration and thought, also talking to others, and if things work out, I am thinking about doing to PhD in Professional Writing after the Humanities.
 
melonpecan said:
Thanks for that link.

I have a BA in English so anything in professional and / or technical writing is right up my alley. I'd like an online program but something fairly close in my home state.


I do know that Fort Valley State University , (an HBCU btw), does offer an online BA in the field :


http://online.fvsu.edu/onlinedegrees.html
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See if I am looking at this correctly for this program:

170.00 per credit hour plus 517.00 or 717.00

687 per S/h or 887 per S/h

If I understood this right, this is alot per S/h
 
Although the school say:

Online Course Fees (effective Fall 2009)
Fully on-line courses are charged at a rate of $170.00 per credit hour for undergraduate students and $200.00 per credit hour for graduate students. Courses that are offered through GA OnmyLINE are charged at a rate of $170.00 per credit hour.
__Any balance for tuition and fees is always due before the first day of the semester.__

Is this fully correct?
 

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