EIU Department of English

Professional Writing Minor

The Minor in Professional Writing combines classroom instruction with practical experience to teach students how to communicate effectively in professional environments. Through client-based projects and an internship, students will build a professional portfolio that demonstrates their writing, editing, design, and research skills to prospective employers.

The ability to communicate information effectively is a highly marketable skill in any field. A reported 58% of companies take writing ability into account when making hiring and promotion decisions, and 79% of professional employees in large American companies have writing responsibilities. The minor in Professional Writing is valuable for students from many majors, including business, health, the sciences, journalism, and communication studies.

Minor Requirements: 18 credit hours

Required courses (12 credit hours):

• ENG 2760 - Introduction to Professional Writing (3 credit hours)
• ENG 3005 - Technical Communication (3 credit hours)
• ENG 4760 - Special Topics in Professional Writing (3 credit hours)
• ENG 4765 - Professional Editing (3 credit hours)

Based on your professional interests, you will also choose 6 credit hours (2 courses) from a list of 17 courses. These electives include courses from English, Communication Studies, Digital Media Technology, Journalism, and Business. A complete list of electives can be found in the course catalog.

Program Supervision

Professional writing students who want assistance selecting classes may consult with any member of the professional writing faculty, with the English Department adviser (Dr. Caldwell) or the coordinator of the professional writing internship (Dr. Fredrick). Students planning to enroll for Eng 4275, Internship in Professional Writing, must consult with Dr. Fredrick as early as possible regarding an internship placement best suited to the student's individual needs.

A Minor in Professional Writing offers...

...training and practice in the writing skills most employers seek.

…the opportunity to build a professional portfolio.

…a broad array of electives, designed to meet each student’s needs and interests.

The ability to write well opens many opportunities for challenging jobs and for professional advancement.

For further information, contact Dr. Terri Fredrick.