Learn writing strategies with online courses

What can you do with an education in writing?

Where an education in writing can take you depends on the type of training you pursue and the level of experience and credentials you already have.

Despite the decline of traditional print media and the growth of artificial intelligence, there's still a demand for human creativity and writing in many industries. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects media and communication job growth on par with the national average for all occupations, along with 109,500 annual openings.

Here are some potential career paths you can pursue if you develop strong writing skills, with salary and job outlook data from the BLS:

Writers and authors

Writers and authors create content to educate, persuade, and entertain. They can share their thoughts and ideas in books, help organizations promote their products and services, or document important events within industries or specific locations.

• Median annual salary (May 2023): $73,690
• Projected employment growth (2023-33): +5%

Public relations specialists

Public relations specialists create communications for people and organizations. They may draft press releases, speeches, and other public-facing messages that help paint their clients in a positive light.

• Median annual salary (May 2023): $66,750
• Projected employment growth (2023-33): +6%

Technical writers

Technical writers create various pieces of media to communicate complex ideas in an easier-to-understand format. They use their specialized expertise in a subject to develop instruction manuals and how-to guides for end-users and technical staff.

• Median annual salary (May 2023): $80,050
• Projected employment growth (2023-33): +4%

What should you expect from online writing courses?

While online writing courses may prepare you for different mediums and goals, they generally provide highly adaptable and in-demand communication skills.

Depending on the style of the writing course, you may learn how to write clearly and concisely, structure an argument, and/or tell a story. The courses may last a couple of weeks or several months.

Your outcome will depend on your situation and your pursuits, but online writing courses are often used to complement previous education and experience.

Admissions for online writing courses

The admission process for online writing courses depends on the provider and the level of the training. For the most part, these courses are open to most students, however, you may encounter some or all of the following requirements:

• High school diploma or GED certificate
• Application fee
• Writing sample
• Undergraduate degree