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Learn the Craft of Writing Fiction

students work in the UCAlways wanted to try your hand at writing fiction but weren’t sure where to start? Our fiction writing certificate program at the University of Michigan-Dearborn can give you the knowledge and skills you need to successfully complete your own work of fiction, all under the guidance of our expert instructors and within a supportive workshop environment.

To become an exceptional writer, you need to first become a discerning reader. You’ll learn how to understand a text from a writer's perspective, grasping narrative techniques and delving into various elements of craft. Then you’ll apply your acquired skills to craft your own works of fiction–short stories, novels, graphic novels or multimedia projects.

Career and Salary Outlook

The information in this table is meant to give you an idea of career opportunities with this degree. All information is pulled from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and is meant to be averages across the United States for 2022. Please note that these figures reflect overall averages and may not represent entry-level salaries.

$75,020 Median Salary

Editors

Employment of editors is projected to decline 4 percent from 2022 to 2032.

Despite declining employment, about 11,600 openings for editors are projected each year, on average, over the decade. All of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to other occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

$73,690 Median Salary

Writers and Authors

Employment of writers and authors is projected to grow 4 percent from 2022 to 2032, about as fast as the average for all occupations.

About 15,500 openings for writers and authors are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

$57,500 Median Salary

News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists

Employment of news analysts, reporters, and journalists is projected to decline 3 percent from 2022 to 2032.

Despite declining employment, about 6,000 openings for news analysts, reporters, and journalists are projected each year, on average, over the decade. All of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to other occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

$66,750 Median Salary

Public Relations Specialists

Employment of public relations specialists is projected to grow 6 percent from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations.

About 25,800 openings for public relations specialists are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

$80,050 Median Salary

Technical Writers

Employment of technical writers is projected to grow 7 percent from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations.

About 4,800 openings for technical writers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

Program Details

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Tuition

Tuition and fees for certificate programs are updated and approved each year in June. Review the current schedule to estimate your costs.

Tuition and Fee Schedule

How to Apply

It is encouraged to apply as early as possible. To apply:

  • Complete and submit an Online Non-Degree Application - select "Certificates".
  • Submit official transcripts.

Completed non-degree applications will be accepted until midnight the day prior to the start of classes each semester.

How to Apply

Admission Requirements

The program is open to all undergraduate students at UM-Dearborn as well as non-degree seeking students with or without college degrees.

Next Steps

Become a part of the UM-Dearborn community and put your dreams to work for you.

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