Professional Writing, MA Online

Program Overview

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The New England College Master of Arts in Professional Writing is a 12-month online program that provides individualized instruction in new and traditional writing-based media. It combines theoretical, creative, and practical foundations to prepare students for challenges in the dynamic field of professional writing. Graduates are well-positioned for careers in technical writing, grant writing, marketing and advertising writing, public relations writing, editing and publishing, content writing, and social media writing.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

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The New England College Master of Arts in Professional Writing

is a

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It combines innovative theoretical, creative, and practical foundations to prepare students for challenges in the dynamic and rapidly evolving field of professional writing.

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Program Objectives:

• Develop and refine writing skills in demand across professional settings.
• Understand theoretical principles underpinning writing choices in professional contexts.
• Cultivate awareness of audience, current publishing standards, and market trends.
• Develop practical strategies for effective communication tailored to specific client needs.
• Produce professional writing for publication and distribution in real-world contexts.
• Build a strong community of professional writers within an online environment.
• Create a comprehensive digital-based professional portfolio showcasing individual interests and career goals.

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Program Description:

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This program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of professional writing through a combination of theoretical knowledge, practical exercises, and real-world application.

Students will:

• various writing styles and formats
• editing, publishing, and digital communication
• Collaborate with faculty and peers to refine their writing skills and develop a professional portfolio.
• capstone project

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Overall, the program aims to prepare graduates for successful careers in a variety of professional writing fields, including:

• Technical writing
• Grant writing
• Marketing and advertising writing
• Public relations writing
• Editing and publishing
• Content writing
• Social media writing

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Outline:

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The program consists of 36 credits divided into two semesters:

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Semester 1:

• PW 5020 Editing and Publishing (3 credits):
• Explores the principles and practices of editing and publishing in both traditional and digital formats.
• Covers topics such as manuscript evaluation, copyediting, proofreading, and publication design.
• PW 5400 Public Relations Writing (3 credits):
• Focuses on developing effective communication strategies for a variety of public relations contexts.
• Covers topics such as media relations, press releases, crisis communication, and social media marketing.
• PW 5500 Writing for Digital and Social Media (3 credits):
• Explores the unique challenges and opportunities of writing for digital platforms and social media.
• Covers topics such as SEO, content marketing, social media strategy, and digital storytelling.
• PW 5600 Business and Technical Communication (3 credits):
• Develops proficiency in writing clear and concise business and technical documents.
• Covers topics such as reports, proposals, user manuals, and white papers.
• PW 5990 Special Topics in Professional Writing (3 credits):
• Offers students the opportunity to explore a specific area of interest within professional writing.
• Recent topics covered include grant writing, environmental writing, and creative writing for business.

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Semester 2:

• PW 6005 Creative Nonfiction (3 credits):
• Develops students' abilities in writing creative nonfiction prose, including memoir, personal essay, and narrative journalism.
• Focuses on developing strong narrative structure, vivid imagery, and authentic voice.
• PW 6920 Digital Platforms for Professional Writers (3 credits):
• Explores various digital platforms and tools available to professional writers.
• Covers topics such as website development, content management systems, social media analytics, and online portfolio creation.
• PW 6930 Brand Development for Professional Writers (3 credits):
• equips students to build a strong personal brand as a professional writer.
• Covers topics such as self-marketing, networking, career development, and professional ethics.

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Assessment:

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Assessment methods include:

• Traditional written assignments such as essays, research papers, and case studies.
• Creative writing projects such as poems, short stories, and personal narratives.
• Professional writing projects such as press releases, website content, and business proposals.
• Individual and group presentations to showcase student work and research.
• Portfolio development to demonstrate student growth and professional skills.

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Assessment criteria:

• Clarity and organization of writing.
• Strength of argumentation and critical thinking.
• Accuracy of grammar, spelling, and punctuation.

• Effective use of language and rhetorical strategies.
• Originality and creativity of expression.
• Professionalism and ethical considerations in communication.

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Teaching:

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The program employs a variety of teaching methods, including:

• Interactive lectures that engage students in discussion and critical thinking.
• Small-group workshops that provide personalized feedback and support.
• Collaborative projects that promote teamwork and problem-solving skills.
• Guest speakers from the professional writing field.
• Online learning platform that allows for flexibility and accessibility.

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Unique Teaching Approaches:

• Individualized feedback: Students receive regular and detailed feedback from faculty on their writing assignments and projects.
• Portfolio development support: Faculty guide students in building a professional portfolio that showcases their skills and experience.
• Industry connections: Faculty provide students with opportunities to connect with professionals in the field through guest lectures, internship opportunities, and industry events.

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Careers:

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Graduates of the program have gone on to pursue successful careers in various professional writing fields, including:

• Technical writer
• Grant writer
• Marketing and advertising copywriter
• Public relations specialist
• Editor
• Content writer
• Social media manager
• Freelance writer

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Career Outcomes:

• The program prepares students for immediate entry into the professional writing workforce.
• Students gain the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively communicate in a variety of professional settings.
• The program fosters students' development of a strong professional network and portfolio.
• Graduates are well-positioned to pursue further career advancement opportunities.

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Other:

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Students have access to a variety of resources, including:

• Online writing lab with experienced tutors who provide guidance on writing assignments.
• Career services that assist students with resume writing, job search strategies, and professional development.
• Online library with access to a wealth of research materials and databases.