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Writing Certificate

Writing Certificate

Strengthen your writing skills and explore the craft of poetry, fiction, and nonfiction while building a foundation you can apply to academic, professional, and creative pursuits.

This 21-credit certificate is offered in conjunction with the University of Pittsburgh’s English department and lets you customize your coursework around your writing interests and goals.

Certificate at a Glance

Explore writing across genres while developing skills you can apply to your academic, professional, and creative goals.

21 CREDITS

Complete seven courses, including two required English writing courses and five electives.

FLEXIBLE FORMAT

Build your coursework around your interests, schedule, and writing goals.

EXPLORE WRITING

Develop skills across poetry, fiction, nonfiction, and other forms of writing.

THE CGS DIFFERENCE

Pursue the certificate on its own for professional or personal development or alongside a Pitt degree.

Who Should Participate

For Students

  • Students already enrolled in the College of General Studies who wish to concentrate on developing their writing skills.
  • Students interested in building writing skills for academic, professional, or creative pursuits.
  • Students considering further study in a writing-related field.

For Professionals & Lifelong Learners

  • Those who already have a degree and want to develop their writing skills for personal or professional advancement.
  • People seeking to explore writing as a profession.
  • Learners who want to strengthen their writing while pursuing their own literary and professional interests.

Program Expectations

Through this certificate, you will develop the knowledge and skills to:

Write Clearly

Write clearly, accurately, and effectively for different audiences and purposes.

Explore Forms

Apply writing skills across fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and other forms of writing.

Understand Craft

Understand different writing forms, techniques, and approaches to developing effective writing.

Program Requirements

  • The Writing Certificate requires 21 credits (seven courses), including two core English writing courses and 15 elective credits.
  • Students must achieve a minimum grade of C (2.0) or better for all courses required for the program.
  • Credits earned at other accredited educational institutions may be eligible for transfer. However, five courses (15 credits) must be completed at the University of Pittsburgh.

How to Declare

To pursue the Writing Certificate, students must meet the admission requirements for the College of General Studies and complete an online application with CGS.

Learn More and Apply

Curriculum

Complete 21 credits through two required English writing courses and five electives in poetry, fiction, and nonfiction. Course offerings vary by term.

Required Courses: 6 credits

Complete both courses.

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Electives: 15 credits

Choose five additional courses from any combination of poetry, fiction, and nonfiction. The following courses are a sampling of electives that can be used to fulfill the elective requirements.

Poetry

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Fiction

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Nonfiction

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Resources & Flexible Options

Flexible Learning Options

Many courses include online and hybrid formats, allowing you to build your writing skills wherever you are.

View Online Courses

Planning Resources

Use the Writing Certificate Checklist (PDF) to plan your courses and monitor your progress toward completing the certificate.

Download Checklist (PDF)

Pitt Opportunities

Put your writing skills into practice and connect with opportunities across the University.

The Pitt News

Gain experience with student journalism and explore opportunities to write, report, and contribute to a campus publication.

WPTS Pitt Radio

Explore student media through radio, audio production, programming, and other opportunities to develop communication skills.

Pitt Tonight Show

Get involved in a student-produced late-night show and explore writing, comedy, production, and performance.

Communication Club

Connect with other students interested in communication and explore opportunities to develop professional and creative skills.

Writer's Café

Connect with the writing community at Pitt and explore opportunities to share your work, develop your craft, and engage with other writers.

Questions

CGS Advising
College of General Studies
University of Pittsburgh
Contact CGS Advising

Note: Requirements are subject to change. Check with an academic advisor before registering.

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