Master of Business Administration (MBA)
The Master of Business Administration (MBA) program at Southwest Minnesota State Univer...
B.A. in Professional Writing & Communication
Marshall, Minnesota
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Professional Writing & Communication at Southwest Minnesota State University (SMSU) is designed to equip students with advanced skills in writing, editing, and effective communication. This program emphasizes the development of professional writing competencies and strategic communication abilities, preparing students for careers in various fields such as business, media, and public relations. The curriculum integrates practical writing exercises with theoretical knowledge, enabling students to produce clear, compelling, and audience-targeted content across different platforms.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the B.A. in Professional Writing & Communication at SMSU provides a comprehensive education in both writing and communication. Core courses cover essential areas such as technical writing, business communication, digital media, and rhetoric. Students gain hands-on experience through assignments that include crafting reports, proposals, and digital content. Elective courses allow students to explore specialized topics such as creative writing, journalism, and multimedia production. The program also includes a capstone project or internship, offering practical experience and opportunities to apply skills in real-world settings.
Research Focus: The research focus within the B.A. in Professional Writing & Communication program at SMSU includes studies on effective communication strategies, the impact of digital media on audience engagement, and advancements in writing technology. Faculty and students engage in research that explores best practices in professional writing, including the development of content strategies and the use of emerging digital tools. This research helps students stay current with industry trends and contributes to their ability to produce high-quality, relevant content.
Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a key component of the B.A. in Professional Writing & Communication program at SMSU. The program offers numerous opportunities for students to interact with professionals through internships, guest lectures, and networking events. Students can gain practical experience by working with local businesses, media organizations, and non-profit groups. These industry connections provide valuable insights into the professional world, help students build their portfolios, and enhance their employability upon graduation.
Global Perspective: The B.A. in Professional Writing & Communication program at SMSU incorporates a global perspective by addressing international communication practices and cross-cultural writing techniques. Students learn about the challenges and strategies involved in communicating across different cultures and regions. This global perspective prepares students to work in diverse environments and to create content that is culturally sensitive and effective in a globalized world.
Location
Marshall, Minnesota
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
USD 10304
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $100
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 61 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 47 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Overall score of 100.
Scholarships that Southwest Minnesota State University (SMSU), USA, typically offers to international students.
International Student Scholarships: SMSU often provides scholarships specifically designed for international students to help offset the cost of tuition. These scholarships are typically merit-based and may consider factors such as academic achievement, standardized test scores, and extracurricular involvement.
Presidential Scholarships: The Presidential Scholarship is one of the most prestigious scholarships offered by SMSU. It is often awarded to outstanding students, including international students, who have demonstrated exceptional academic performance. The scholarship typically covers a significant portion of tuition costs.
Dean's Scholarships: Dean's Scholarships are often available to high-achieving international students who have a strong academic record. These scholarships are typically competitive and may vary in amount.
Transfer Student Scholarships: SMSU may offer scholarships specifically for international transfer students who are transferring from another institution. These scholarships can help make the transition to SMSU more affordable.
Departmental Scholarships: Some academic departments at SMSU may offer departmental scholarships to international students pursuing specific majors or fields of study. These scholarships are often based on academic merit and may require students to meet certain criteria.
Cultural Exchange Scholarships: SMSU may participate in cultural exchange programs that provide scholarships to students from partner institutions abroad. These scholarships aim to promote international exchange and cultural understanding.
External Scholarships: In addition to university-sponsored scholarships, international students at SMSU may also be eligible for scholarships from external organizations, foundations, or government agencies. These scholarships can be a valuable source of financial aid.
Please note that scholarship offerings, eligibility criteria, and award amounts may change over time.
Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Professional Writing & Communication from Southwest Minnesota State University (SMSU) are well-prepared for a diverse range of career opportunities in various industries. The program equips students with the skills needed for effective writing, editing, and strategic communication.
Technical Writer: Graduates can work as technical writers, creating clear and concise documentation such as user manuals, guides, and procedures for technical products and services. They translate complex information into accessible content for various audiences.
Content Strategist: With expertise in content creation and digital media, graduates may work as content strategists, developing and managing content plans that align with organizational goals. They analyze audience needs, create content strategies, and oversee content production across different platforms.
Public Relations Specialist: Graduates can pursue careers as public relations specialists, managing communication between organizations and the public. They craft press releases, manage media relations, and develop strategies to enhance an organization’s public image.
Corporate Communications Manager: This role involves overseeing internal and external communications within a company. Graduates may manage corporate messaging, create communication materials, and coordinate public relations efforts to maintain a positive organizational image.
Marketing Communications Specialist: Graduates can work as marketing communications specialists, developing marketing materials and campaigns to promote products or services. They create promotional content, coordinate marketing efforts, and analyze campaign effectiveness.
Editorial Assistant or Editor: With strong writing and editing skills, graduates may work as editorial assistants or editors for publications, websites, or media organizations. They review and refine content, ensuring accuracy, clarity, and consistency.
Social Media Manager: In this role, graduates manage social media accounts for organizations, creating and curating content, engaging with followers, and analyzing social media metrics to enhance brand presence and engagement.
Grant Writer: Graduates can also pursue careers as grant writers, preparing proposals and applications to secure funding for non-profit organizations, research projects, and community initiatives. They craft compelling narratives to support funding requests.
Freelance Writer or Consultant: Many graduates opt for freelance writing or consulting careers, offering their expertise to various clients on a contract basis. This flexible career path allows them to work on diverse projects and build a portfolio of work across different industries.
