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Writing Certificates

Expand and enhance your writing skills with a Writing Certificate from San Juan College. Choose between a Professional Writing Certificate to gain the strong communication skills employers seek or unleash your creativity with a Creative Writing Certificate. Complete a Writing Certificate from SJC in as little as two semesters.


Why Complete a Writing Certificate?

Writing is essential in all industries and is the heart of everyday communication. Completing a Writing Certificate will help refine your skills for personal, academic, creative, and professional writing purposes.

Whether you’re looking for opportunities for self-expression or publication or want to set yourself apart in the workplace, a Writing Certificate from San Juan College will put you on a path to success.

 

Why Earn a Writing Certificate at San Juan College

Two Writing Certificates

In as little as two semesters, you’ll earn a certificate in Writing from San Juan College and will have an e-portfolio to showcase your new skills. We have two options to choose from depending on your goals:

Creative Writing Certificate

Have you always wanted to be a writer but didn’t know where to start? At San Juan College, you’ll be immersed in the creative writing process in a diverse supportive classroom where everyone feels welcome to explore and grow their talents. Develop skills to write for various genres, including fiction, creative nonfiction, poetry, and digital storytelling.

A Creative Writing Certificate can be earned simultaneously with an Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts degree and is ideal for students who are planning to transfer to a four-year college to pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts.

Professional Writing Certificate

A certificate in professional writing equips students with essential communication, writing, and critical thinking skills that are in demand in business and government settings. The certificate complements other degrees students may be working toward or already have, such as human services, engineering, marketing, and more. The program includes business writing courses for technical and non-technical documents, proposals, business letters, grants, and more. 

Small Class Sizes Led by Experienced Faculty

San Juan College faculty members are professional writers and educators dedicated to helping you achieve your career goals. Class sizes are typically under 20 students, which means you’ll get to collaborate closely with your instructors.

SJC has Flexible Learning Options

We understand that many SJC students lead busy lives. We offer various flexible learning options, including online and hybrid classes, so you can complete your coursework at a time and place that is convenient for you.

SJC is an Affordable Option

SJC offers low tuition rates making the Writing Certificate program an affordable option. You’ll receive a high-quality education at a low cost. You may even qualify to get your certificate tuition-free through the NM Opportunity and Lottery Scholarships.

 

What You’ll Learn in the Writing Certificate Program

A Writing Certificate from San Juan College gives you a strong foundation in writing that can be applied in a number of settings.

In the creative writing courses you’ll study:

  • Creative writing focusing on different genres
  • Digital storytelling
  • American or World Literature
  • Native American or Women’s Literature

Creative Writing Certificate Curriculum

In the professional writing courses you’ll study:

  • Composition
  • Professional and technical communication
  • Creative nonfiction writing
  • Digital media

Professional Writing Certificate Curriculum

Transfer Options for Graduates of the SJC Writing Certificates Program

The Creative Writing Certificate at SJC can be earned simultaneously with the AA in Liberal Arts. The certificate is also a great option for students who want to transfer to a four-year college to pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts.

The creative writing and professional writing certificates are transferable to any degree at San Juan College. Some of our students have continued their education at:

  • Fort Lewis College
  • Art Institute of American Indians (AIAI)
  • University of New Mexico
  • Arizona State University

We also have an articulation agreement for transfer with Southwest Minnesota State University. Contact your academic advisor to find out more information about transferring your courses. 

Contact an academic advisor

Writing Certificate Program Students Participate in High-Impact Learning Practices

High-impact practices have significant educational benefits for students who participate, which is why San Juan College incorporates them into its English curriculum.

Some of the high-impact practices include:

  • Participation in the San Juan College One Book-One Community program
  • Opportunity to submit your work to SJC’s literary arts publication, Perspectives
  • Participation in global studies travel experiences combining writing with other disciplines
  • Opportunity to participate in readings on campus or in the community to share your work
  • Capstone course
  • E-portfolio

Career Opportunities for Graduates of SJC Writing Certificates Program

Our Writing certificates are designed to prepare you for success in writing, whether pursuing a career as a professional writer or seeking to improve your writing in the workplace. The skills you develop in our Creative Writing and Professional Writing certificate programs can be applied to a wide range of careers, including

  • Administrative professions
  • Marketing
  • Public relations
  • Grant writing
  • Technical writing and editing
  • And more

A Writing Certificate can also enhance existing careers such as:

  • Education
  • Social services
  • Law
  • Business administration

Any career where writing and critical thinking are needed.

Recent graduates have gone to work for:

  • San Juan College

Apply to San Juan College

To enroll in the Writing Certificates program, you must first apply to San Juan College. 

Apply Today!

If you’re already a student at San Juan College, talk to your advisor about our Writing Certificates. You can also discuss your transfer options. 

Find Your Advisor

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Writing Certificate Program Students Participate in High-Impact Learning Practic

High-impact practices have significant educational benefits for students who participate, which is why San Juan College incorporates them into its English curriculum. 

Contact

admissions@sanjuancollege.edu
Phone: (505) 566-3320
West Classroom Complex, Room 1911
M-F 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

 

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