Bachelor of Arts in Professional Writing for New Media
Embrace the Art of Professional Writing for New Media Platforms
The term “new media” encompasses a vast landscape, referring to interactive forms of communication that are reliant on digital technologies. New media platforms include online video, digital newspapers, email, social media, websites, blogs and multimedia.1 As media platforms continue to evolve, the art of writing for these new media outlets must also change.
The growth of new media can present exciting opportunities to those who are passionate about pursuing a career involving professional writing. Grand Canyon University’s Bachelor of Arts in Professional Writing for New Media offers a comprehensive survey of new media technologies and best practices in writing for these digital, potentially interactive platforms. In the professional writing courses, you will not only examine professional writing techniques and publication technologies but also have opportunities to produce your own work in our multimedia lab. This professional writing degree teaches technical skills and strives to nurture creativity so graduates can be prepared to make their own mark on the world.
Earn Your Professional Writing Degree From GCU
Many students have exceptional writing talent but may be unsure of how to turn this talent into a viable career. The Bachelor of Arts in Professional Writing for New Media was developed to serve as a foundation upon which writers may build a writing career in a constantly changing media landscape.
In the professional writing degree online or on campus, new media majors are taught to:
- Balance engagement with concision in social media
- Create multimedia works using creative applications to tell meaningful stories
- Evaluate why videos are important tools in storytelling
- Produce and post their own work
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Study Professional Writing Techniques and New Media Marketing Concepts
As a new media major, you will have opportunities to practice writing skills that may be applicable to a range of careers. In particular, you’ll examine curriculum pertaining to content marketing, with a look at best practices in advertising campaigns. As you progress in the program, you will be taught to combine persuasive messaging with area-specific tactics to compose effective communications for any writing platform.
The goal of this professional writing degree is to teach core competencies across multiple domains. You will examine new media strategies and skills in areas such as public relations and communications, journalism and technical, scientific and creative writing.
[Tuition, Fees and Financial Aid]
Online: $485 per credit
[Tuition, Fees and Financial Aid]
Cost of Attendance
Career Paths for Graduates With a Professional Writing Degree for New Media
Pursuing a career in professional writing may open the door to a variety of positions. Language has the power to communicate messages that inspire, inform, enlighten or ask thought-provoking questions. For those who are passionate about language, there are an array of career possibilities. With a firm foundation of competencies in professional writing and new media technologies, individuals may choose to pursue positions such as:
- Journalist
- Grant writer
- Social media specialist
- Copywriter
- Public relations specialist
- Content strategist
All types of industries rely on communications specialists. Some industries in which professional writers may pursue employment may include:2,3
- Healthcare
- Tourism/travel
- Higher education
- Human resources
- News and entertainment
- Marketing and advertising
- Corporate business
- Nonprofit organizations
New media majors are required to develop a personal portfolio comprised of writing work completed in and out of class. Graduating with a refined portfolio may prepare you to pursue employment, as it displays your distinct talents to potential employers.
Complete Professional Writing Courses at an Institutionally Accredited University
At GCU, we strive toward academic excellence so that our students can graduate fully equipped to make a positive difference in their communities. We are proud to be institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1968. The College of Humanities and Social Sciences shares the university’s commitment to upholding the principles and standards established by our accrediting bodies.
Bachelor of Arts in Professional Writing for New Media Degree FAQs
Before choosing a professional writing degree, take some time to research the field and what you can expect from your academic journey. The following FAQs and answers can provide a starting point.
Since there are many specific careers within the field, the requirements to become a professional writer can vary depending on the chosen specialization. In general, a writing-focused degree may be helpful. Some writers choose to pursue a bachelor’s degree in English, specializing in technical or creative writing. Others may choose a journalism or communications degree.4 If you are seeking writing skills that can be applied across many different industries and mediums, earning a professional writing degree is worth considering. GCU’s professional writing program offers a variety of courses for a thorough exploration of content creation for multimedia channels.
If you love to write about a broad range of topics, or if you are still exploring your niche, then a degree in professional writing may be for you. As a professional writing new media major, you will be exposed to various writing styles, content platforms and industries to provide opportunities to hone your language skills and find your voice.
New media in journalism is any professional online communication that tells the facts of a story. Journalists write and publish their work using multimedia tools, such as videos, podcasts, blogs, online newspapers, and even social media platforms.1
The professional writing degree at GCU requires 120 credits for completion. Most of the professional writing courses on campus are 15 weeks in length. If you are participating in the online program, the courses are generally seven weeks in length. Fill out the form on this page to request a consultation with a university counselor who can help you better understand how long it might take to earn your degree.
Technical writing and creative writing serve two different purposes. Technical writing is written to inform in a concise, formal and logical manner. Creative writing, on the other hand, is meant to entertain and educate, mainly through emotional connection and storytelling.5 New media majors will explore both forms of writing.
Professional writing skills are important for anyone who uses written communication in their career. When you have strong writing skills, you can help provide clarity and get your message across. Whether your goal as a writer is to encourage the reader to buy a product, inform an audience about current events or evoke a certain emotion, clear writing is the key to organizing your thoughts and communicating your message.6
Pursue your passion for writing as you forge your purpose for the future. Apply for GCU’s Bachelor of Arts in Professional Writing for New Media program today.
1 Drew, C., PhD. (2023, Oct. 1). 13 examples of new media. HelpfulProfessor.com. Retrieved Nov. 15, 2023.
2 Birt, J. (2023, June 29). 15 popular writing careers. Indeed. Retrieved Nov. 15, 2023.
3 Sebek, R. (n.d.). 5 industries that will hire freelance writers. Freelance Writing. Retrieved Nov. 15, 2023.
4 Indeed. (2023, Oct. 17). How to become a professional writer in 8 steps (with FAQs). Indeed. Retrieved Nov. 15, 2023.
5 GeeksforGeeks. (2020, Sept. 17). Difference between technical writing and creative writing. GeeksforGeeks. Retrieved Nov. 15, 2023.
6 Bradford, J. (2019, Jan. 29). Why writing ability is the most important skill in business (and how to acquire it). Forbes. Retrieved Nov. 15, 2023.
General Education Requirements
General Education coursework prepares Grand Canyon University graduates to think critically, communicate clearly, live responsibly in a diverse world, and thoughtfully integrate their faith and ethical convictions into all dimensions of life. These competencies, essential to an effective and satisfying life, are outlined in the General Education Learner Outcomes. General Education courses embody the breadth of human understanding and creativity contained in the liberal arts and sciences tradition. Students take an array of foundational knowledge courses that promote expanded knowledge, insight, and the outcomes identified in the University's General Education Competencies. The knowledge and skills students acquire through these courses serve as a foundation for successful careers and lifelong journeys of growing understanding and wisdom.
Requirements
Upon completion of the Grand Canyon University's University Foundation experience, students will be able to demonstrate competency in the areas of academic skills and self-leadership. They will be able to articulate the range of resources available to assist them, explore career options related to their area of study, and have knowledge of Grand Canyon's community. Students will be able to demonstrate foundational academic success skills, explore GCU resources (CLA, Library, Career Center, ADA office, etc), articulate strategies of self-leadership and management and recognize opportunities to engage in the GCU community.
Course Options
- UNV-103, University Success: 4
- UNV-303, University Success: 4
- UNV-108, University Success in the College of Education: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to construct rhetorically effective communications appropriate to diverse audiences, purposes, and occasions (English composition, communication, critical reading, foreign language, sign language, etc.). Students are required to take 3 credits of English grammar or composition.
Course Options
- UNV-104, 21st Century Skills: Communication and Information Literacy: 4
- ENG-105, English Composition I: 4
- ENG-106, English Composition II: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to express aspects of Christian heritage and worldview. Students are required to take CWV-101/CWV-301.
Course Options
- CWV-101, Christian Worldview: 4
- CWV-301, Christian Worldview: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to use various analytic and problem-solving skills to examine, evaluate, and/or challenge ideas and arguments (mathematics, biology, chemistry, physics, geology, astronomy, physical geography, ecology, economics, theology, logic, philosophy, technology, statistics, accounting, etc.). Students are required to take 3 credits of intermediate algebra or higher.
Course Options
- MAT-154, Applications of College Algebra: 4
- MAT-144, College Mathematics: 4
- PHI-105, 21st Century Skills: Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: 4
- BIO-220, Environmental Science: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to demonstrate awareness and appreciation of and empathy for differences in arts and culture, values, experiences, historical perspectives, and other aspects of life (psychology, sociology, government, Christian studies, Bible, geography, anthropology, economics, political science, child and family studies, law, ethics, cross-cultural studies, history, art, music, dance, theater, applied arts, literature, health, etc.). If the predefined course is a part of the major, students need to take an additional course.
Course Options
- HIS-144, U.S. History Themes: 4
- PSY-102, General Psychology: 4
- SOC-100, Everyday Sociology: 4
Core Courses
Course Description
This course introduces students to multiple professional writing disciplines. Students gain experience in writing for typical professional writing genres and gain working knowledge of professional writing styles. This course provides students with practical, procedural knowledge that helps them write in multiple contexts to appropriate audiences. Prerequisite: ENG-105.
Course Description
In this course, students learn the fundamentals of writing breaking news and feature stories. Learners acquire the skills to understand the foundations of journalistic history, ethics and Associated Press style. Students originate, research and write news stories. Through readings, discussion, and attention to accuracy, students learn how to exercise these skills wisely in new media. Technology requirement: Students are responsible for providing their own laptop and subscription to industry-standard software to complete assignments.. Verify required technical specifications in the University Policy Handbook available on www.gcu.edu. Prerequisites: ENG-105 and ENG-106.
Course Description
This foundational studio course focuses on developing visual style and production workflows in the creation of raster- and vector-based graphics using industry-standard technologies. Students apply color theory and composition skills to create complex illustrations and advertisements. Multiple input sources are combined to create both original and derivative content: camera, scanner, mouse, tablet, traditional media, and stock photography. Students practice acquiring work at the correct PPI, retouching, tonal correction, and color profiling to create images compliant with industry standards. Emphasis is placed on selecting appropriate imagery by analyzing audience needs, which is then applied to developing creative and original work. Students also learn how to legally acquire stock imagery and the ethical obligations in its manipulation. Technology requirement: Students provide their own laptop and mouse. Students will use industry-standard software to complete assignments. Verify required technical specifications in the University Policy Handbook, which is available on www.gcu.edu.
Course Description
In this course, students learn to identify news, develop story ideas, conduct research on stories, write in a journalistic style, and report information in a variety of media. Prerequisite: PRW-301 or ENG-105.
Course Description
This writing intensive course focuses on creative copywriting techniques to develop advertising campaigns for print and multimedia channels. Students enhance persuasive writing skills to create compelling and ethical advertising campaigns that are competitive in the industry. Technology requirement: Students are responsible for providing their own laptop that is capable of running the Adobe Creative Cloud. Verify required technical specifications in the University Policy Handbook available on www.gcu.edu.
Course Description
This course exposes students to the various types of writing tasks utilized by Public Relations professionals. In addition to enabling students to write with clarity and skill for various media and contexts, this course encourages students to use strategy, creativity, and critical thinking in composing public relations material. Technology requirement: Students are responsible for providing their own laptop and subscription to industry-standard software to complete assignments.. Verify required technical specifications in the University Policy Handbook available on www.gcu.edu. Prerequisite: ENG-105.
Course Description
This course examines the processes, purposes, and practicalities of grant writing with an emphasis on communication between funding sources and grant seekers. Students learn about funding sponsors and their concerns, the parts of grant proposals, and techniques for successful grant research and writing. The course culminates in the students’ completion of a grant proposal. Prerequisite: ENG-105, ENG-106.
Course Description
This writing-intensive course provides an overview of technical writing and focuses on the production of informative practical texts such as instructions, manuals, and process descriptions. Technology requirement: Students are responsible for providing their own laptop and subscription to industry-standard software to complete assignments. Verify required technical specifications in the University Policy Handbook available on www.gcu.edu. Prerequisite: ENG-105.
Course Description
In this course, students explore creative writing through an examination of craft and strategies, readings and discussion, writing across the major genres (poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction), and the editorial process, which includes critiquing and revision. In addition, students consider the application of creative writing techniques to arenas in the professional writing world. Prerequisite: ENG-105.
Course Description
This course exposes students to advanced journalism skills, concentrating on long-form journalism. Using the best practices of nonfiction, students adapt heavily researched stories to media platforms that integrate video, audio, photography and text. Technology requirement: Students are responsible for providing their own laptop and subscription to industry-standard software to complete assignments.. Verify required technical specifications in the University Policy Handbook available on www.gcu.edu. Prerequisite: ENG-105, ENG-106, PRW-301.
Course Description
This writing intensive course prepares students to interpret scientific ideas for lay audiences. Drawing from best practices of writers from popular sources such as magazines, news articles, blogs, and other forms of popular writing designed for wide consumption, students learn to convey scientific ideas through various genres for various purposes and audiences. Prerequisite: ENG-105.
Course Description
This course critically surveys the broad competencies and understandings covered in the major, critically analyzes ethical issues in the writing professions, considers intersections between worldviews (particularly Christian worldviews) and the rhetorical and communications professions, and facilitates the creation of student portfolios of material and résumés/curriculum vitae. This capstone course needs to be completed at the end of program. Prerequisites: PRW-381, ENG-365, and PRW-466.
- GCU cannot and will not promise job placement, a job, graduate school placement, transfer of GCU program credits to another institution, promotion, salary, or salary increase. Please see the Career Services Policy in the University Policy Handbook.
- Please note that this list may contain programs and courses not presently offered, as availability may vary depending on class size, enrollment and other contributing factors. If you are interested in a program or course listed herein please first contact your University Counselor for the most current information regarding availability.
- Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Programs or courses subject to change
Join Grand Canyon University’s vibrant and growing campus community, with daytime classes designed for traditional students. Immerse yourself in a full undergraduate experience, complete with curriculum designed within the context of our Christian worldview.
Pursue a next-generation education with an online degree from Grand Canyon University. Earn your degree with convenience and flexibility with online courses that let you study anytime, anywhere.