Professional Writing Program

July 23, 2009 8:45 AM

Can you recommend a great professional writing certificate program?

I am looking for a post-graduate professional writing certificate program that will help qualify me as a technical writer or copy editor. Anywhere in the US or Canada is fine, and I would prefer to study somewhere that has a bit of prestige. I'm not interested in online programs.

posted by jschu to Education (2 answers total)

Here's a few in Los Angeles:

http://www.latimes.com/classified/jobs/counselor/2001/la-120301counselor-techwriter,0,2525080.htmlstory

The most notable name there being USC. Their program is pretty pricey but is actually a graduate degree.
posted by NeoLeo at 11:31 AM on July 23, 2009

If you don't want to invest in the heavier postgrad programs (master's/PhD), then your best bet is a "continuing education" route. Search Google for such programs in the .edu domains.

I'm assuming despite your comment that "Anywhere in the US or Canada is fine," you actually will consider distance learning in some form or another unless you really intend to move to another state or country for a little certificate (vs. master's/PhD).

By the way, in terms of "prestige," having one of the actual grad degrees still likely carries far more weight than a certificate. Of course, there's the cost and time and more difficult entry requirements, but you have to know exactly what you want and the pros/cons.
posted by Ky at 8:49 PM on July 23, 2009