Professional Writing Program FAQs

• How long will it take to complete my degree?
• What is the deadline for application to the Professional Writing program?
• When will I hear about my application?
• What test scores and other materials are required with my application?
• How difficult is it to get into the program, and what are you looking for from applicants?
• Can I take classes without being accepted for admission?
• Do you offer evening courses?
• Do you offer summer courses?
• Do you have satellite or extension classes?
• Will an advisor assist me once I am admitted?
• Are computers an important part of the program?
• How large are classes, and are faculty available for help and advice?
• What kinds of theses do students pursue?
• Are the classes mostly lecture?
• Is there a lot of work?

How long will it take to complete my degree?

For full-time students, it normally takes two years. For Teaching Assistants and part-time students, it normally takes three or four years, depending on the person's course load.

What is the deadline for application to the Professional Writing program?

We review applications throughout the year and admit students on a rolling basis. However, for applicants also interested in securing one of our limited Teaching Assistantships (which provide substantial financial aid), we recommend applying promptly once the decision has been made to seek admission.

When will I hear about my application?

Applicants are usually notified of our decision within 4-6 weeks from receipt of the completed application.

What test scores and other materials are required with my application?

You need to submit a portfolio and the results of the Miller Analogies Test (MAT) or the Graduate Record Exam (GRE).

How difficult is it to get into the program, and what are you looking for from applicants?

The program is competitive, and we are seeking students who are skilled, fluent writers who can demonstrate success, preferably with publications. We want students who are committed to a career in writing. We seek students who have done very well as undergraduates, not only in writing courses, but in a spectrum of disciplines. Many applicants have jobs in a variety of professions. Some of these people take a few writing courses in the beginning as "Special Students" and then apply to the program.

We are interested in applicants who have established evidence of professionalism, discipline, determination, and talent. Not all of our students have writing backgrounds. Some have degrees in sciences and social sciences but have shown a long interest in and a talent for writing.

Can I take classes without being accepted for admission?

Yes, you can take up to 12 credits (4 courses) as a special student for credit toward your degree without officially applying to the program.

Do you offer evening courses?

Not at this time; however, we recognize that many of our students hold daytime jobs, so our graduate courses are offered in the late afternoons.

Do you offer summer courses?

Not at this time.

Do you have satellite or extension classes?

All courses are taught at the UMass Dartmouth campus.

Will an advisor assist me once I am admitted?

Yes, you will have an advisor who will work with you to personalize the program that is most appropriate for you.

Are computers an important part of the program?

Yes. All of our courses require that students use computers and become adept at complex word processing and computer-based research. Those interested in advanced computer applications have the opportunity to take courses requiring state-of-the art software. Most students come here with their own computers, but the program has a small lab with all the applications used in the program. For word processing we use MS Word, for desktop publishing and design we use PageMaker, for Web design we use Dreamweaver, and across all of these areas we use Adobe Photoshop.

How large are classes, and are faculty available for help and advice?

We have a class size limit of 15, and most of our classes average from 10-15 students. Faculty are readily available for consultations, either face-to-face or by e-mail.

What kinds of theses do students pursue?

Most theses are writing projects with a strong emphasis on publication. In journalism, students often write a series of investigative articles or in-depth pieces. Some students carry out projects for various employers or regional companies. Some are public relations projects involving newsletters, brochures, special reports.

Many students have written technical reports for companies or institutions. Some have written educational materials or more traditional theses about educational problems, issues, or research.

Some students have written novels, short story or poetry collections, and in recent years, many have developed ambitious Web sites.

In all cases, students must have supporting course work and a record of accomplishment and professional promise. We look upon the thesis as the culminating final piece to graduate study, an important "showcase" portfolio piece of publishable quality.

Are the classes mostly lecture?

No, most classes are workshops or discussion classes that involve much classroom interaction, frequent student presentations, critiquing of other students' writing, and considerable feedback and open exchange of opinions.

Is there a lot of work?

Yes. You can expect a lot of writing and re-writing, in some classes a large volume of reading, and in all cases a commitment toward excellence and professionalism. We do our best to replicate the demands of the profession, and they are considerable.