Writing and Rhetoric Major

Students majoring in writing and rhetoric will learn to analyze the processes by which print, digital, and cultural texts are produced in diverse context and communities. Through a group of four core courses, majors will gain an understanding of the practices, conventions, theories, and ethics of written and visual communication and use that understanding to produce their own works.

To earn a Bachelor of Arts in writing and rhetoric, students must complete a minimum of 40 credits including the core program: WRT 160 Composition II, WRT 340 Issues in Writing and Rhetoric, and WRT 394 Literacy, Technology, and Civic Engagement.

Students will choose 16 credits of writing and rhetoric courses in one of the three tracks: writing for the professions, writing for new media or writing as a discipline. They will also take an additional 8 credits in elective courses, and a four-credit internship or senior capstone thesis.

Major Tracks

Writing for the Professions:	Writing for New Media:	Writing as a Discipline:
WRT 331: Introduction to Professional Writing (required core course for this track) Plus 3 courses from the following: WRT 305: Advanced Writing WRT 335: Writing for Human Services Professionals WRT 350: Service Learning Writing WRT 364: Writing About Culture WRT 380: Persuasive Writing WRT 381: Scientific & Technical Writing WRT 382: Business Writing	WRT 330: Digital Cultures (required core course for this track) Plus 3 courses from the following: WRT 231: Composing Audio Essays WRT 232: Writing for New Media WRT 233: Digital Storytelling WRT 305: Advanced Writing WRT 332: Rhetoric of Web Design WRT 364: Writing About Culture WRT 381: Scientific & Technical Writing	WRT 320:Peer Tutoring in Composition (required core course for this track) Plus 3 courses from the following: WRT 305: Advanced Writing WRT 342: Contemporary Rhetorical Studies WRT 350: Service Learning Writing WRT 364: Writing About Culture WRT 365: Women Writing Autobiography WRT 380: Persuasive Writing WRT 414: Teaching Writing
All majors will also complete 8 credits in elective courses and either WRT 491: Internship or WRT 492: Senior Thesis

Course Descriptions available at http://www2.oakland.edu/wrt/courses.cfm

Career Possibilities
The writing and rhetoric major will prepare individuals who plan on careers in higher education*, in-house writing, consulting, publishing, business, public relations, law, and the public sector. Career opportunities are varied and various. The thoughtful student will develop the ability to communicate well and to critically reflect on strategies what will make that individual attractive to a wide array of employers. Career positions include: Technical writer, freelance writer, editor/publisher, website content manager, writer/graphic designer, grant/proposal writer and development specialist, corporate writing consultant, writing expert for brokerage firms, writing assistant, editing and research assistant, medical writing manager, writing team manager, writing tutor, business analyst, or public relations specialist.

*May require additional preparation

For Additional Information
Making course selections, choosing areas of emphasis within your major, and fitting your major into your life, career goals are all tasks with which academic advisers are prepared to assist you. Plan to consult with your advisers regularly.

College of Arts & Sciences Advising
221 Varner Hall, (248) 370-4567