College of Liberal Arts
Writing and Publishing
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Writing and Publishing Major: A Gateway to a World of Creative Possibilities
Embark on a transformative journey into the dynamic realm of writing and publishing with Benedictine University’s unique interdisciplinary major. This program, one of only a few of its kind nationwide, is meticulously designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge to navigate the ever-evolving publishing landscape and pursue a variety of exciting career paths.
Immerse yourself in a comprehensive curriculum that seamlessly blends literature, writing, theory, print and copy editing, and language proficiency. Our experienced faculty from the Departments of Communication Arts and Languages and Literature will guide you through each step, fostering a deep understanding of the industry’s intricacies and nurturing your creative potential.
The BenU Difference
Embrace the opportunity to explore your creativity
Benedictine’s Writing and Publishing major is not just about mastering the technical aspects of the industry; it’s about cultivating a passion for storytelling, honing your critical thinking skills, and developing a keen eye for detail. You will learn to navigate the ever-changing publishing world, adapt to emerging technologies, and effectively communicate your ideas in a variety of formats.
Benedictine University’s Writing and Publishing program offers a unique blend of interdisciplinary coursework and practical learning experiences. Students gain a comprehensive understanding of written communication and its impact on society through a combination of communication arts and literature courses. Hands-on involvement in real-world projects, such as The Candor student newspaper and The DuPage Valley Review literary journal, provides valuable experience in layout, design, and editorial processes. A diverse selection of writing courses, including professional nonfiction writing, journalism, creative writing, and public relations writing, caters to students’ individual interests and career goals.
Embrace the opportunity to explore your creativity, refine your writing skills, and contribute to the world of words. With Benedictine’s interdisciplinary Writing and Publishing major, you are not just preparing for a career; you are shaping your future as a skilled communicator, a creative thinker, and an influential voice in the ever-evolving world of publishing.
Craft a personalized academic program
Master storytelling across fiction and non-fiction, develop essential transferable skills, and execute written projects with rhetorical brilliance. Become a leading voice in the dynamic field of communications and media.
In collaboration with their academic advisors, Writing and Publishing majors will carefully select courses within and outside the relevant departments to craft a personalized academic program that aligns with their unique educational and career aspirations. This individualized curriculum ensures that each student receives the tailored guidance and support necessary to achieve their specific goals.
In addition to the core requirements of the major, Writing and Publishing students are required to demonstrate proficiency in a second language. This proficiency can be achieved by successfully completing at least one language course at the 2202 level or higher or by passing a designated proficiency exam. It is important to note that the second language requirement does not count towards the 39 semester credit hours required for the major. Moreover, LITR 2299 Methods of Literary Analysis must be taken at Benedictine University to fulfill the major’s prerequisites.
Embrace a World of Creative and Professional Opportunities
Delve into the art of storytelling, captivating audiences across fiction, non-fiction, and various media platforms. Master the intricacies of editing, ensuring every written word conveys clarity, accuracy, and impact. Explore the publishing industry, overseeing book production, navigating marketing strategies, and contributing to the success of published works.
Venture beyond traditional publishing into public relations, marketing communications, social media management, grant writing, and web content creation. Let your creativity flourish and make a meaningful impact in the digital realm. With a BA in Writing and Publishing, you’ll emerge as a versatile communicator, a skilled storyteller, and a creative force ready to make your mark on the world.
What our Alumni have done with this degree
Our alumni exemplify the boundless opportunities that a Writing and Publishing degree unlocks. Witness them meticulously editing technical journals, expertly managing client communications at Nielsen, and captivating audiences as award-winning justice correspondents for NPR.
Here is an example of some courses you may take in the Writing and Publishing program:
- Newswriting and Reporting
- Methods of Literary Analysis
- U. S. Multiethnic Literature
- Studies in Film Theory and Criticism
- Multimedia Production for the Web
Writing and Publishing courses
Writing and Publishing courses include: COMM, LITR,