Program Details

Professional Writing certificate program prepares candidates to compose documents and manage professional communications for a variety of professions. Writers will gain expertise in composing, designing, and editing electronic texts in a variety of workplace genres such as documentation, technical report writing and proposal writing. Students will also develop a comprehensive foundation in various styles of professional business correspondence, and in grammar and punctuation. The program offers a number of electives including journalism, technical report writing, graphic design, writing for publication, writing for the Web, social media, and communications. The final course is a capstone class, in which students prepare a "professional portfolio" of exemplary writing (and other projects) that will be useful in advancing their careers. Students also will receive guidance in finding employment opportunities and preparing for job interviews.

• Transfer Opportunities

  This credential is not designed to transfer.

• Credit for Prior Learning

  Northern Virginia Community College accepts industry-standard certifications, credentials and/or professional courses for credit. Broadly, licenses, credentials and/or certifications must be current and valid for consideration. For more information regarding the status of the certification and its eligibility for credit, please see an advisor or faculty members in the discipline area that awards CPL credit.

  • Credit for Prior Learning
• Career Prospects

  NOVA's Professional Writing certificate program offers students an exciting opportunity in an in-demand career field projected to grow 10% between 2014 and 2024. In our region, the field is expected to grow substantially as well, and experienced professional writers in the DC metro area can expect to earn anywhere from $73,000 to more than $87,000 per year, depending upon education and experience. (Bureau of Labor Statistics)