Certificate in Business Writing

Certificates ≫

The Certificate in Business Writing focuses on the writing skills that are necessary to develop communications materials for an organization. Students in the program learn persuasion principles, how to better understand audience needs, and cutting-edge message design strategies.

The program is designed to support people who have attended college and are looking to grow in their current position or transition into a strategic communications role.

Admission Requirements

Non-degree students and students already admitted to a Bachelor of Science degree program the School of Continuing & Professional Studies may apply for admission to the Certificate in Business program. There are no formal requirements for admission to undergraduate certificates. Students should speak with an academic advisor regarding their preparation for specific certificates or courses.

US Citizenship or Eligible Noncitizen

International students interested in the certificate programs must hold a visa that permits part-time study (including F-2 and J-2 visas).  Students holding  F-1 visas are not eligible for these programs.  Students holding a B-2 visa may be eligible if the coursework is recreational or avocational in nature.

Note
CAPS is designed for students with adult responsibilities who may require part-time and flexible course schedules. Current high school students and recent graduates seeking a traditional WashU college experience should apply through the undergraduate admissions office: admissions.wustl.edu.

Application Requirements
Application Deadlines

Admission decisions are made on a rolling basis and typically take three to five business days.  An application is incomplete and will not be reviewed until all of the application requirements have been received or processed.  Applicants are encouraged to submit all materials by the following dates:

  • Summer 2024: April 30, 2024
  • Fall 2024: July 31, 2024
  • Spring 2025: Dec. 31, 2024
Completed Application Form

The online application is available on our Apply page. Applications are ready for review when all fields on the application form are completed and the required documents have been received.

Enrolling in WashU School of Continuing & Professional Studies (CAPS)

We are here for you every step. Getting started at CAPS is easy.

1. Meet with a Recruiter
2. Start Your Application
  • Applying is easy, and our advisors are here to help you find the path that fits your needs. Apply Today!
3. Plan Ahead
Take a course today. Apply later.

At CAPS, students can take courses without applying to a degree program. If you are interested in taking a class to get to know CAPS, to fulfill credits, for professional development, or to follow a passion, the non-degree option is for you. Learn more.

Course Work

REQUIRED COURSES — 9 units

  • U48 203 Writing for Business Communication
  • U48 262 Integrated Strategic Communications
  • U11 324 Writing for Public Speaking

ELECTIVE COURSES IN WRITING — 3 units

  • U49 345 Effective Editing
  • U48 378 Communications Technology and New Media
  • Any courses in English Composition or Creative Writing (poetry, fiction, or creative nonfiction)

Contact Us

Contact us today to see how CAPS can work for you.

USEFUL LINKS
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Student Success Navigators

Every CAPS student is paired with a Student Success Navigator at the time of admission to help you navigate your path and needs. We will provide you with the tools to make each moment spent on your education as valuable as possible. Students will receive:

  • individual appointments with an experienced Student Success Navigator;
  • career planning services to prepare you for opportunities after graduation;
  • a partner throughout your journey to ensure success.

HOURS
Student Success Navigators are available from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Thursday and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday.