• The writing certificate is an academic credential that allows students to increase their writing skills by focusing on the written word. It requires the completion of 19 semester hours in a mix of interdisciplinary and genre-specific writing courses, plus the completion of a capstone course.
• The certificate in writing is awarded by the University of Iowa, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

• You'll develop a range of highly prized writing skills, including the ability to write clearly and concisely, correctly use mechanics and style, communicate with particular audiences for specific purposes, and overcome obstacles that occur during the writing process.
• You can tailor the certificate to your own goals and interests. Some students focus on writing for specific fields, such as business, journalism, the arts, or science; some pursue an interest in creative or technical writing; and others do a little of everything—it's up to you!
• You'll join an internationally-renowned community of writers, with instructors from Iowa's flagship writing programs in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences—including the Writers' Workshop, Nonfiction Writing Program, and School of Journalism and Mass Communication—and participate in the dynamic literary culture of Iowa City, a UNESCO City of Literature.

The requirements to complete the Writing Certificate can be found on our requirements page.

• Designed with the intention of reaching students who are not able to attend courses on campus, the online certificate in writing allows nondegree-seeking, professional, or distance education participants the opportunity to take advantage of the University of Iowa’s impressive culture of writing from anywhere in the world.
• Online courses are taught by engaging faculty, including graduates of the Iowa Writers’ Workshop and the Nonfiction Writing Program.
• Students have access to a dedicated program advisor with appointments available via webconference and phone.
• Students taking only online courses pay standard College of Liberal Arts and Sciences in-state tuition, plus a technology fee.
• The certificate transcript will not indicate that you were in an online program. Students who graduate by taking online courses earn the same credential as those in the on-campus program.

Graduates of our program go on to apply their writing skills in a wide range of fields unique to their talents and goals. Our graduates have found work as teachers, copywriters, editors, government administrators, free-lance journalists, strategic communications personnel, and more. Graduates also often continue on from the writing certificate program to MFA programs, Teach For America, law school, and other graduate and professional programs. Other recent graduates have found internships or full-time positions with publishing companies and media outlets across the country.