Online writing certificate and degree programs teach students how to communicate the written word in a creative manner, while also providing thought-provoking writing and analysis to the masses. These programs are ideal for those who want to master the art of storytelling while utilizing writing as a career. Writing degree programs are available at the associate, baccalaureate, master’s, and doctoral level. Select schools may also offer a career diploma or certificate option.

Those who graduate with a degree or diploma in writing may seek employment in education, advertising, publishing, and public relations. Programs may provide students with the skills for a career as a journalist, publisher, copywriter, screenwriter, and public relations specialist.

Available Degree Levels

• Career Diploma: Varies
• Certificate: One to two years to complete
• Associate Degree: Two years to complete
• Bachelor’s Degree: Four years to complete
• Master’s Degree: One to two years to complete
• Doctoral Degree: Three to five years to complete

An online career diploma in writing serves as an introduction for those wanting to get started in the writing profession. A diploma is a quick program that teaches the basics of the writing process as well as the business tools needed to become a professional writer. Coursework may cover freelancing, the business of writing, and using the writers market.

A certificate in writing is available for students with any major who wishes to develop proficient creative writing skills. These programs may equip individuals with the vocabulary necessary to work in writing and editing. Coursework may include writing for non-fiction, writing for fiction, and writing for social sciences.

An online associate degree in writing is a two-year degree that can stand alone or be transferred to an advanced degree program. Covering both writing and literature, these programs are ideal for those who want to write professionally or plan to teach creative writing. Coursework may include basic visual theory, literature, and writing for children.

Online bachelor’s degree programs in writing allow students to focus in different genres of writing and may also provide students with the fundamentals of the writing process. Students can learn about the business of writing while honing writing skills. Comprised of critiques and workshops, coursework may include techniques of creative writing, fundamentals of story development, and literature.

A master’s-level online degree in writing provides students with the opportunity to foster imagination while balancing critical analysis skills. These programs allow students to master the techniques needed to develop and perfect their own writing. Coursework may consist of student critiques, literary theory, fundamentals of writing, and studies in places and settings.

Doctoral-level degree programs allow students to work closely with faculty mentors to perfect their writing and critical thinking skills. Admission to these programs may be competitive, and they are comprised of rigorous study and student critiques. Coursework may include advanced studies in theory, special topics, creative writing seminars, and dissertation preparation.

Career Options

Online writing programs may provide students the training and skills to work in education, advertising, publishing, and public relations. Writers may choose to become self-employed, providing the opportunity to work at a preferred pace while also having the convenience of working from a home office. Students who have obtained a degree in writing may have the skills to write copy for magazines, work in publishing, or seek employment as a journalist.

Possible career fields include:

• Journalist
• Publisher
• Copywriter
• Screenwriter
• Public Relations Specialist