Since it is an incredibly diverse field, it can be hard to define what professional writing is. At the most basic level, professional writers use their skills in rhetoric, writing, and design to create documents that clearly and concisely communicate the ideas of their organization. People who earn MAPWs go on to work in a wide variety of fields and roles including, but not limited to non-profits, marketing, healthcare and science communications, UX and instructional design, editing and publishing, and journalism.
For more on Professional Writing, visit the departmental website.
To me, one of the most appealing aspects of the MAPW Program is its flexibility. There is a huge range of career opportunities available with this degree, and students in the program are encouraged to take electives that appeal to them and their interests. As someone who began this program not knowing exactly what I wanted to do, but knowing I wanted to apply my creativity but still draw upon practical skills, the ability to build my professional skillset without limiting my future opportunities was a major draw.
The MAPW program allows me to combine my skills in writing and organization with my interests in art and design. In this program, I am constantly analyzing the ways in which design and text interact to make a document successful. It is the perfect blend of analytical and creative, constantly providing new challenges and the tools to approach them with confidence.
Examples of work I have done while in the MAPW program can be found on the following pages: Highlights, Graphic Design, and Research.
To see what classes I have taken, view Courses.