Writing for the Professions Certificate
Build versatile writing skills for professional settings, with coursework that prepares you to communicate clearly and effectively across industries and audiences.
On this page
Who It's For · Courses · Credit Requirements · How to Declare · Resources & Flexible Options · Questions
Certificate at a Glance
Complete six courses in professional writing, communication, and related areas.
Choose from available online, hybrid, and in-person courses to fit your schedule and goals.
Develop writing skills you can apply across industries, organizations, and professional settings.
Pursue the certificate as a standalone professional development opportunity or alongside a degree program.
Who Should Participate
Professionals
- Professionals who write as part of their everyday work and want to strengthen their communication skills
- Individuals who create reports, proposals, articles, presentations, digital content, or other professional documents
- Professionals in business, health, nonprofit, media, public service, and other fields who want to become more effective writers
Current Students
- Students interested in careers where strong writing and communication skills are essential
- Students who want to complement another area of study with practical professional writing skills
- Students preparing for careers in fields such as communications, media, health, business, nonprofit work, or public service
Program Expectations
Graduates of this program will be able to:
Understand Audiences
Identify and analyze audience traits, perspectives, and needs to make writing more effective.
Write With Purpose
Establish a clear purpose, organize ideas effectively, and develop well-written documents for specific audiences.
Apply Writing Skills
Apply professional writing and communication strategies across specialized topics, formats, and workplace settings.
Credit Requirements
- The writing for the professions certificate requires 18 credits, including nine credits of core classes and nine 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, a minimum of nine credits must be earned at the University of Pittsburgh.
This certificate is applicable to such fields as print and online writing professions, health professions, and nonprofit organizations.
How to Declare
Students must meet requirements for admission to the College of General Studies. An online application must be completed and returned to CGS.
Learn More and Apply »Coursework
Required Courses: 9 credits
Complete both courses:
And choose one of the following two courses:
Note: Either course may be used towards the elective requirement if both courses are taken.
Electives: 9 credits
Choose three courses from the following approved electives.
➤ Communication (COMMRC)
Approved Topic: New Media Technologies (SEC 10XX)
➤ English Composition (ENGCMP)
➤ English Writing (ENGWRT)
Resources & Flexible Options
Flexible Learning Options
Many courses include online and hybrid formats, allowing you to build your skills wherever you are.
View Online CoursesPlanning Resources
Use the Writing for the Professions Certificate Checklist (PDF) to map out your required courses and monitor your progress toward degree completion.
Download Checklist (PDF)Pitt Opportunities
70 Faces Magazine »
Gain experience developing and publishing written work for a student-led magazine that showcases diverse voices and perspectives from the Pitt community.
Communication Clubs »
Connect with other students and explore opportunities to develop your communication skills through Pitt’s student organizations and activities.
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.