Oct 10, 2024  
University of Alberta Calendar 2024-2025 
    
University of Alberta Calendar 2024-2025

Certificate in Writing Studies


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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 postsecondary 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 30 units as follows:

12 units of writing instruction:


18 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.

Courses eligible for inclusion from a range of disciplines in this requirement are as follows:


Notes


Other courses may be approved by Augustana Faculty if they meet the requirements of this certificate program. Students should consult with their Academic Advisor.

Normally a student will make an application at the end of their second year. The latest point at which a student can apply for the certificate is the final term of their penultimate year before graduation. Interested students should consult with their Academic Advisor as early as possible. To be admitted, students must have a cumulative GPA of 2.7 or above. Once admitted, students must successfully complete the 30 credits stipulated above with a minimum 2.7 GPA.

This certificate is awarded upon graduation.

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