Course Description:

This course is an introduction to professional writing, covering the fundamentals of writing for various professional contexts. Students will learn how to analyze different genres of writing, practice writing in different styles, and hone their editing and revision skills.

Learning Objectives:

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

• Identify and analyze different genres of professional writing
• Write effectively for different professional contexts, such as emails, memos, and reports
• Use appropriate tone, style, and language for different audiences
• Revise and edit their writing for clarity, concision, and correctness
• Use technology and digital tools for professional writing

Course Topics and Schedule:

Week 1: Introduction to Professional Writing

• What is professional writing?
• Understanding the writing process
• Analyzing professional writing genres

Week 2: Writing for Emails and Memos

• The structure and format of emails and memos
• Writing compelling subject lines and opening paragraphs
• Using a professional tone in email and memo writing

Week 3: Writing for Reports and Proposals

• Understanding the purpose and audience of reports and proposals
• The structure and format of reports and proposals
• Using Data and Evidence to support arguments

Week 4: Writing for Social Media and Websites

• Understanding the purpose and audience of social media and web writing
• Writing compelling headlines and captions
• Using visuals and multimedia in social media and web writing

Week 5: Writing for Public Relations and Marketing

• Understanding the purpose and audience of PR and marketing writing
• Writing effective press releases and promotional materials
• Using persuasive language in PR and marketing writing

Week 6: Editing and Revising Professional Writing

• The importance of editing and revising
• Techniques for improving clarity, concision, and correctness
• Peer review and feedback

Week 7: Digital Tools for Professional Writing

• Writing software and digital tools
• Using social media and online platforms for professional writing
• Copyright and plagiarism

Week 8: Final Project and Course Wrap-up

• Applying professional writing skills to a final project
• Reflection on learning and progress throughout the course
• Next steps for further development of professional writing skills

Assessment

Your final project will be read and analyzed by a member of our writing staff. You’ll receive feedback in a written report.

Textbook:

Professional Writing by Paula LaRocque.

Note: This syllabus is subject to change, and any changes will be communicated in advance to the students.