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Deadline: Students planning to graduate in the spring with the certificate need to apply before February 1.

A Writing Studies Certificate indicates a high level of achievement in written communication. Writing is a fundamental aspect of education that crosses fields, disciplines, departments and programs, and the research-teaching divide. Writing helps develop critical thinking as it allows individuals to reflect upon, understand and learn complex new ideas. Writing enables the growth of insight into knowledge, and good writing skills are at the heart of clear, concise and cogent communication.

Writing is, in fact, a cornerstone to nearly all post-secondary academic endeavours, and it is the integral connection between learning and discovery. Enhanced skills in written communication gained through the integration of learning and discovery, and through multidisciplinary endeavours, are necessary for the highest achievements in knowledge acquisition and translation. The requirements for this certificate are founded in both mentorship and peer-based learning, and will inspire students to a deeper engagement with personal development. Excellent writing skills are a necessary competency that stands out in an increasingly competitive job market.

To qualify for the Certificate in Writing Studies, students accepted into the program must
successfully complete 18 units as follows:

• 3 units from AUENG 213, AUENG 215, AUENG 221, or AUIDS 244
• 6 units from AUENG at the 400-level that include a capstone project
• 6 units in additional courses designated as “writing intensive” according to the following
  criteria:
  • at least 3,000 words of assigned writing,
  • at least 50% of the course grade based on writing assignment including but not limited to essays, journals, lab manuals, and exams/quizzes that are graded and returned to the student,
  • substantial revision of writing/staged writing assignments through faculty and/or peer review,
  • class time devoted to instruction in writing in the discipline.

Students on North campus are also eligible to complete this certificate. Please consult calendar for a complete list of course options.