What You Can Do With a Bachelor’s Degree in Professional Writing and Communication
| 4 Min Read
People who excel at turning ideas into compelling narratives are well-positioned to thrive in today’s information-driven economy. Strong writing and communication skills can unlock professional opportunities in a wide range of fields, from journalism and corporate communications to policy advocacy and instructional design.
The online Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Professional Writing and Communication program from Southwest Minnesota State University (SMSU) equips students with foundational skills that extend beyond grammar and style. Courses such as Theory & Practice of Professional Writing and Advanced Journalism help students refine their ability to analyze audiences, craft persuasive messages and navigate the evolving landscape of digital and traditional platforms. These competencies lay the groundwork for impactful careers across industries.
Writing for Digital and Traditional Platforms
Professional writing is no longer confined to newspapers and print media. Today’s graduates work across diverse platforms, developing content for websites, blogs, newsletters and social media while still maintaining traditional skills in editing and long-form writing.
In SMSU’s BA program, students explore rhetorical strategies and professional standards and receive training in investigative research and multimedia storytelling. Coursework prepares graduates to write for multiple audiences and in different contexts — a critical requirement in careers where consistency in brand voice and messaging matter.
Notable career paths for writing professionals include roles such as content strategist, copywriter, editor and journalist. According to the University of Pennsylvania, writing professionals can find opportunities in publishing, marketing and communications, with demand continuing to rise for those who can translate complex ideas into accessible content.
Career Paths in Media and Publishing
For students drawn to storytelling, publishing remains a natural and fitting choice. Opportunities exist not only in traditional book and magazine publishing, but also in digital platforms that require editorial oversight and content development.
Writers and editors in this sector may help shape thought leadership, produce cultural commentary and craft engaging entertainment pieces. Graduates may work as technical writers, creating manuals and guides; editors ensure clarity and cohesion in published work; and journalists report on issues that inform and influence communities. Each role requires precision, adaptability and a strong command of language.
Opportunities in Corporate and Business Communications
Beyond creative outlets, writing and communication skills are highly valued in corporate environments. Business communications professionals manage everything from employee newsletters to executive speeches, ensuring that organizations clearly convey their mission and goals.
Specializations within this field include public relations, internal communications and marketing communications. Strong communicators play an essential role in shaping a company’s public image and maintaining trust among stakeholders. Forbes notes that communications professionals often find themselves at the intersection of messaging strategy and leadership, making this path ideal for those who want to influence decision-making processes.
Advocacy and Policy Communications
SMSU graduates who are passionate about driving social or political change can pursue careers in advocacy and policy communications. These roles involve writing policy briefs, crafting persuasive campaigns and managing outreach efforts that amplify the voices of organizations and communities.
Effective policy communicators understand how to translate technical information into language that resonates with policymakers and the public. Their work often requires collaboration with stakeholders, making strong writing and interpersonal communication skills vital.
Curriculum Development and Instructional Design
Another growing field for writing and communication graduates is curriculum development and instructional design. Professionals in this area create educational materials, design training modules and produce digital content that supports learning at all levels.
These roles are in high demand within corporate training departments, higher education and nonprofit organizations. Strong writing, coupled with the ability to simplify complex information, ensures that instructional materials are both engaging and effective.
Salary Considerations for Writing and Communication Careers
While salaries vary by industry and experience, communications roles generally offer competitive earning potential. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics highlights that writers, editors and communications specialists often start in the $50,000 to $65,000 range annually, with growth opportunities into senior-level or specialized positions exceeding $100,000.
Technical writers and corporate communications managers are among the higher earners, reflecting the specialized expertise and leadership responsibilities associated with these positions. For those pursuing a career in journalism or publishing, salaries can widely vary. However, professionals often leverage their skills to transition into related industries with higher earning potential.
Building a Future in Writing and Communication
A degree in professional writing and communication provides graduates with more than just strong language skills. It fosters adaptability, critical thinking and the ability to connect with diverse audiences. The online BA in Professional Writing and Communication from Southwest Minnesota State University is designed for students who want the flexibility to pursue their degree while maintaining a work-life balance.
SMSU students complete the program ready to pursue roles that align with their strengths and passions in areas such as media, business, advocacy and education. By developing versatile writing skills, analytical thinking and audience awareness, graduates are well-positioned for careers that offer strong earning potential and an opportunity to shape narratives, influence decisions and drive meaningful changes across every sector of the modern economy.
Learn more about Southwest Minnesota State University’s online BA in Professional Writing and Communication program.