Department of Writing Studies, 215 Nolte Center, 315 Pillsbury Drive, S.E., Minneapolis, MN 55455 (612-624-3445; fax: 612-624-3617)

The M.A. and Ph.D. in rhetoric and scientific and technical communication prepare students to address complex issues in language, science, and technology. The programs are flexible enough to allow students to approach their studies from a variety of perspectives and research methods. These programs prepare students for teaching at a university and conducting research in rhetoric and scientific and technical communication. The programs can also prepare students for specialist positions in industry and government that require the analysis and design of human communication systems. Required courses include theory, research, and practice in rhetoric and scientific and technical communication; analysis of scientific or technical discourse; and coursework in a minor or related field. All M.A. and Ph.D. applicants must meet the admission requirements of the Graduate School. M.A. and Ph.D. applicants should have a strong interest in language and rhetorical theory or communication theory. A background in a science, Internet studies, environmental studies, or pedagogy and technology is helpful.

Students must be admitted into a master's or doctoral program at the University of Minnesota.

For master's degree students, the minor requires 6 credits in 5xxx and 8xxx WRIT courses. The minor for Ph.D. students requires 12 credits of 5xxx and 8xxx WRIT courses with one course being in rhetorical theory and criticism. Students may choose the remaining courses from any of writing studies graduate courses.