Program Overview
The Professional Writing Minor at York College of Pennsylvania enhances students' written communication skills, equipping them for success in various careers. Through a combination of theoretical and practical courses, students develop effective writing abilities and produce diverse print and electronic documents for various audiences. The minor complements any major, providing a competitive edge in the workplace and fostering critical thinking, research, and problem-solving skills.
Program Outline
Professional Writing Minor at York College of Pennsylvania
Degree Overview:
The Professional Writing Minor equips students with enhanced written communication skills, providing them with a competitive edge in the workplace. It complements any major, offering both theoretical and practical applications of writing concepts through in-class and out-of-class experiences. This minor focuses on developing effective writing skills and producing various print and electronic documents for diverse audiences.
Outline:
The Professional Writing Minor curriculum encompasses 15 credit hours, comprising the following courses:
- WRT 280 Research Methods in Writing Studies (3 credit hours): This course delves into the principles and practices of research in writing studies, equipping students with the skills to conduct and analyze research relevant to writing contexts.
- WRT 315 Civic Rhetoric and Writing (3 credit hours): This course focuses on the role of rhetoric and writing in civic life, exploring how writing can be used to influence public opinion and shape social change.
- FCO 210 Communication in Professional Cultures (3 credit hours): This course explores the dynamics of communication within professional settings, focusing on the development of effective communication strategies for navigating various professional contexts.
- FCO 215 Technical and Scientific Communication (3 credit hours): This course equips students with the skills to produce clear, concise, and accurate technical and scientific documents, catering to diverse audiences.
- FCO 225 Interdisciplinary Communication (3 credit hours): This course delves into the complexities of communication across disciplines, focusing on the development of strategies for effective communication in interdisciplinary settings.
- 6 elective credits selected from WRT courses: Students can choose from a variety of Writing Studies courses to tailor the minor to their specific interests and career goals. At least 3 elective credits must be at the 300 level or above.
Assessment:
Assessment methods in the Professional Writing Minor vary depending on the specific course. However, they typically include a combination of:
- Written assignments: Essays, research papers, technical reports, and other written assignments are designed to assess students' writing skills, knowledge of writing principles, and ability to apply these principles in various contexts.
- Presentations: Oral presentations allow students to demonstrate their ability to communicate effectively and persuasively in front of an audience.
- Exams: Exams may be used to assess students' understanding of key concepts and theories related to writing studies.
- Class participation: Active participation in class discussions and activities provides opportunities for students to demonstrate their engagement with the course material and develop their communication skills.
Teaching:
The Professional Writing Minor is taught by experienced faculty members who are passionate about teaching writing and helping students develop their communication skills. The program employs a variety of teaching methods, including:
- Lecture and discussion: Combining lectures with engaging discussions allows students to actively participate in the learning process and gain a deeper understanding of the course material.
- Workshops and activities: Hands-on workshops and activities provide students with opportunities to practice their writing skills and receive feedback from their peers and instructors.
- Individualized feedback: Instructors provide regular and detailed feedback on students' written work, helping them to improve their writing skills and develop their strengths.
- Technology integration: The program utilizes various technologies to enhance the learning experience, including online resources, collaborative writing tools, and multimedia presentations.
Careers:
Graduates of the Professional Writing Minor are well-prepared for a wide range of careers that require strong written communication skills. Some potential career paths include:
- Technical writer: Creating user manuals, product descriptions, and other technical documents.
- Grant writer: Researching and writing proposals to secure funding for various projects.
- Public relations specialist: Writing press releases, media materials, and other communication materials for organizations.
- Researcher: Conducting research and writing reports, articles, and other scholarly materials.
Other:
The Professional Writing Minor is a valuable asset for students of all majors. It provides them with the writing skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their chosen careers and effectively communicate with diverse audiences. The minor also helps students develop critical thinking skills, research skills, and problem-solving skills, which are essential for success in any field.
