Types Of Writing Degrees

Whether you are writing an email to the person you love, or looking to write the next best-selling novel, the point is that various types of writing degrees can be a great asset, both with regards to your personal life and your career as a professional writer.

There are many types of writing degrees, each one tailored to meet certain needs and placing emphasis on different aspects of writing.

The most common of all types of writing degrees is that in creative writing. In your years as a student, you learn to produce written works both through written assignments and exercises, as well as through reading and studying other famous authors aiming for an in-depth analysis of the various writing techniques, voices, and styles. If your dream is to be able to write a novel, a poem, a theatrical play, or a screenplay at some day, then a degree in creative writing is your best option.

If, however, you see yourself as a writer for magazines and newspapers, you will have to find a good program in media writing. Writing, for example, the script for television news, would also be a kind of media writing. These types of writing degrees at a university level fall under the broader umbrella of communication, programs that aim at teaching the student not fiction writing, but how to communicate effectively news and other important information in order to engage the reader’s (or listener’s) and keep his interest alive. A number of different courses will teach you how to do that both for print publications and for online media.

One of the rising types of writing degrees is technical writing. Whether that is writing the manuals for new products (software or hardware), simple reports, scientific documentation, or even grant writing, a degree in technical writing can definitely open some doors for you. You don not only learn how to use a certain technical style in your writing, but also what the proper format is; how to produce various designs and layouts, and how technical illustration and technical editing can enhance the quality of your work.

In general, the most common option are bachelor degrees, which are typically spread over a three-year period. They are usually less costly compared to business degrees, although equally difficult to acquire. Pursuing a degree in writing, however, is not something you do out of necessity, but out of sheer choice. Statistics show that 35% of students who chose to study writing having mixed feelings and seconds thoughts about their degree, end up dropping out of their programs, especially those in creative writing programs. Therefore, you should always keep in mind that all types of writing degrees require a certain level of commitment on the part of the student. If you want to continue your educational career, you can opt for more advanced types of degrees in writing, after you are done with your bachelor’s. Most students pursue a master’s degree that offers them more specialized training in their areas of interest, and if you feel that you are up to the task you can aim for a PhD. Nevertheless, there is always the option of more intensive and less time-consuming programs. For example, there are many seminars and specialized courses to help you develop your writing skills like the above types of writing degrees do, but instead of a Master’s or a bachelor’s they usually grant you a certificate, which can sometimes be enough to get the opportunity you are looking for a career in writing.