COURSE CURRICULUM

The Writing major at Northwest Missouri State University is designed to develop students into versatile communicators and skilled writers across professional, academic, and creative contexts. In the first year, students build a foundation with courses in Composition I and II, Introduction to Literature, and Introduction to Creative Writing, alongside general education requirements such as American Government, Global Perspectives, and social and life sciences, preparing students to think critically and express ideas clearly. The second year focuses on enhancing both practical and technical writing skills with courses in Writing and Rhetoric, Professional and Technical Writing, and Creative Writing, while students continue to complete core requirements, language study, and foundational science coursework. By the third year, students advance to higher-level creative writing courses, language studies, and literary analysis, with electives and minors providing opportunities for specialization, interdisciplinary study, and professional development. Students engage with literary traditions, modern literature, and studies in language and linguistics, developing analytical skills alongside creative expression. In the final year, the curriculum emphasizes professional preparation with a Senior Seminar or Professional Portfolio course and Publication Skills, allowing students to refine a cohesive body of work for careers or graduate study. Minors and electives throughout the program ensure flexibility, interdisciplinary growth, and exploration of personal interests. Across all four years, the program emphasizes real-world application, effective communication, critical thinking, and the ability to write for diverse audiences, from business and technical fields to artistic and literary endeavors. Graduates leave prepared to pursue careers in publishing, marketing, education, communications, content creation, and more, as well as opportunities in graduate programs, law, or other advanced studies. With a liberal arts foundation combined with practical skill-building, the Writing major at Northwest equips students to use writing as a tool for expression, analysis, problem-solving, and professional success in a rapidly changing world.