The 18-unit graduate certificate program in Rhetoric, Writing, and Digital Media Studies is designed to provide professional development for current and future teachers of academic writing.
Teachers who are grounded in rhetoric and composition theories, literacy theories, and media literacies are well equipped to implement effective teaching practices in their composition classrooms and to continue teacher research to improve teaching practices.
The certificate in Rhetoric, Writing, and Digital Media Studies is especially relevant for high school and college teachers who are looking for accreditation, advanced training, and promotion; for M.A. students in English programs who are preparing for a career in teaching composition at a community college or high school; and PhD candidates who would like to include a specialization in rhetoric, writing, and digital media studies.
In addition to University Requirements:
Students may be able to use some courses to meet more than one requirement. Contact your advisor for details.
| Minimum Units for Completion | 18 |
| Additional Admission Requirements | Required |
Purpose Statement
The Rhetoric, Writing, and Digital Media Studies (RWDMS) Program engages students with a curriculum that prepares them as writers and scholars. The program emphasizes the importance of critical reading, reflection, writing, digital media, and spoken language to educate knowledgeable citizens who understand and appreciate their civic, professional, and personal responsibilities in an increasingly global community. We specialize in preparing students for intercultural and interdisciplinary communication practices in digital and traditional work settings to further global engagement, diversity, and social participation. Students gain experience with rhetorical theory and persuasive argumentation, social media literacy and multimedia writing, professional and public discourse conventions through theory-based application projects. In addition, our courses provide a foundation for workplace writing and M.A. programs in rhetoric, writing, digital media, communication, and composition studies.
Student Learning Outcomes
General Knowledge of English
Individual program admission requirements over and above admission to NAU are required.
The NAU graduate online application is required for all programs. Admission to many graduate programs is on a competitive basis, and programs may have higher standards than those established by the Graduate College.
Admission requirements include the following:
Visit the NAU Graduate Admissions website for additional information about graduate school application deadlines, eligibility for study, and admissions policies.
Ready to apply? Begin your application now.
International applicants have additional admission requirements. Please see the International Graduate Admissions Policy.
Take the following 18 units:
Introductory Courses (3-6 units):
Federal financial aid cannot be used for this certificate.
Be aware that some courses may have prerequisites that you must also successfully complete. For prerequisite information, click on the course or see your advisor.