Program Description
Our professional writing program explores all the ways nonfiction writers make a living — writing, editing, reporting for newspaper, magazines and the Web. It’s not a creative writing program, although we are creative enough. And it’s not a journalism program, with an emphasis on a career in newspapers where there are fewer and fewer jobs.
Professional writing is a what-do-you-want-to-write-or-edit program to prepare you for existing and unimagined careers in writing for publication. With strong writing skills and a little design, photography and web management, you can find your way as a writer in a rapidly changing world.
A unique feature of this program is a two-semester in-house agency experience where students gain practical experience working on film projects. A senior capstone course prepares students for a career search and requires the completion of a professional portfolio.
Students with a Professional Writing major earn a bachelor of science (BS) degree.
Mission
The mission of the Department of Communication and Media is to prepare credible, creative Christian professionals for a world where the mastery of communication skills and technologies is essential. We accomplish our mission by helping students produce, publish and perform original work that is both ethical and effective.
Career opportunities
The study of communication will help you develop useful skills in such fields as ministry, mass media, theatre, business, government and social services. Our program is particularly appropriate for positions involving public relations, broadcasting, corporate communication, public information management, employee communication, training and development, and print journalism.
Program strengths and emphases
The study of communication at Spring Arbor University is a hands-on experience, with a foundation in classical and Christian perspectives. All students complete a core sequence that promotes a thoughtful and ethical understanding of communication principles and best practices.
Throughout the program you will apply these principles. We offer extracurricular opportunities in writing, acting, broadcasting, designing, producing and researching in addition to practical hands-on experiences in the classroom. Each year students win awards in state and national competitions and engage in meaningful internships.
See Communication and Media for information about other Department of Communication and Media programs and program strengths, descriptions of COM courses, and career opportunities.
The following majors are also offered through the Department of Communication and Media: