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English & Professional Writing

Bachelor of Arts (BA)

English & Professional Writing is a single degree program blending both fields of study: English keeps open the possibility of graduate work in English, while Professional Writing gives students the practical skills for professional writing work.  

The only dual qualification program of its kind in Canada.  

This degree option provides a great range of practical skills in addition to theoretical and critical scholarship. Our courses bring the community into the classroom through various practical activities, such as writing web content, podcasting, editing and publishing materials and working with community organizations.

By joining the English and Professional Writing Program, you become part of a community of writers who learn to recognize and communicate in a variety of genres and styles appropriate to their audience, as they participate in experiential opportunities, collaborative projects, and extra-curricular activities, such as the Professional Writing Students' Association and Existere - Journal of Art and Literature.

The program is designed on a cohort model, where students complete each set of year-level requirements in order, which enables them to build the necessary foundation of knowledge and skills that prepare them for the expectations and assignments at the next level of the program.

Since our courses are small, you will receive mentorship and guidance from supportive professors committed to your success in university and beyond.

The Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies also offers a number of scholarships, awards and bursaries and emergency funding for students in financial need.

What you’ll learn 


  • Professional writing techniques
  • Introduction to literary study and literary criticism
  • Digital writing
  • Editing & publishing

Hands-on experiences 


  • Book and Bookmaking
  • Digital Authoring
  • Periodical Publishing and Writing 
  • Organizational/Business Writing

Questions?

Trying to decide between Professional Writing (PRWR) and English and Professional Writing? Thinking about pairing your Honours Major with a PRWR Minor? Check out our FAQs or just ask us!

I was drawn to the English and Professional Writing program because of the ability to focus on book publishing. Coming out of high school, I knew I excelled at English, but I didn't think the English program was going to be for me. The English & Professional Writing program allows students to choose between four fields of interest, and prepares them for real jobs in the writing field.

—Mackenzie Shaw
English & Professional Writing Major

Read more testimonials from our alumni

Interested in this program?

As a future student if you fill out this form you will be entered into a draw for a chance to win 1 of 5 $100 YU Bookstore gift cards. See full contest details.

male and female student in front of dahdaleh building on keele campus