Freelance Writing Schools: List of Schools with Programs for Becoming a Freelance Writer

Published Oct 23, 2009

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Freelance writers provide feature articles, press releases, speeches and advertising copy to businesses, individuals and organizations. They learn their craft by completing degree programs in English, journalism and communication. Arizona State University, the University of Florida and Ohio State University all have degree programs for freelance writers.

Freelance Writing Program Details

Freelance writers work for newspapers, magazines, advertising agencies, websites and public relations firms. Many of these professional writers have bachelor's and master's degrees in English, journalism, professional writing or communication. Students take courses in business writing, English, mass media communication and journalism. Most freelance writers begin their career with a bachelor's degree. However, a master's degree may be necessary in securing high-profile freelance writing projects.

Freelance Writing Bachelor's Degree Program Details

Freelance writers hone their skills by completing bachelor's degree programs in related fields of study. Students in freelance writing bachelor's degree programs study advertising, business writing, copy editing, journalism, professional writing and public relations. They may also take courses in mass media, strategic communication and reporting and interviewing.

Freelance writing students build their portfolio by participating in industry-specific, supervised writing internships with participating local newspapers, advertising agencies and non-profit organizations. During the last year of the program, students may experience the deadline-driven newspaper business or work alongside a senior-level advertising executive. Upon completion, graduates are prepared to secure entry-level writing contracts.

Freelance Writing Master's Degree Program Details

A master's degree program for freelance writers often means completing a degree program in professional writing. Professional writers have a keen eye and savvy skills for rhetoric and semantics. They help individuals, businesses, organizations and media outlets communicate appropriate messages.

A master's degree program for freelance writers includes courses in advanced business writing, modern rhetoric, creative nonfiction, corporate communication and nonprofit communication. Students also study business writing, review writing, editing and freelance writing. Graduates may secure senior-level writing contracts with high-profile newspapers, magazines, businesses and other organizations.

Public and Private Nonprofit Schools with Freelance Writing Degree Programs

School NameInstitution TypeEnrollmentMailing AddressPhone Number
Arizona State University4-year, Public67,082Tempe, AZ 85287(480) 965-9011
Ohio State University4-year, Public53,715190 N. Oval Mall, Columbus, OH 43210 (614) 292-6446
University of Florida4-year, Public51,474 355 Tigert, Gainesville, FL 32611-3115(352) 392-3261
University of Minnesota4-year, Public51,140100 Church St. SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455-0213(612) 625-5000
University of Central Florida4-year, Public50,121 4000 Central Florida Boulevard, Orlando, FL 32816(407) 823-2000
The University of Texas at Austin4-year, Public49,984 Austin, TX 78712(512) 471-3434
Texas A & M University4-year, Public48,039 College Station, TX 77843(979) 845-3211
Michigan State University4-year, Public46,510 East Lansing, MI 48824-1046 (517)355-1855
University of South Florida4-year, Public46,1894202 East Fowler Ave, Tampa, FL 33620-9951(813) 974-2011
Pennsylvania State University4-year, Public44,406201 Old Main, University Park, PA 16802-1589(814) 865-4700

Featured School Choices:

  • Grand Canyon University

    Grand Canyon University responds quickly to information requests through this site.

    Suggested programs:
    • B.A. in Communications
    • M.A. in Communication with an Emphasis in Education
    • BA in Digital Film - Screenwriting
    More information about Grand Canyon University
  • Wake Forest University - School of Professional Studies

    Wake Forest University - School of Professional Studies responds quickly to information requests through this site.

    Suggested programs:
    • Master of Communications
  • National University

    National University responds quickly to information requests through this site.

    Suggested programs:
    • EdD - English Language Learning
    • EdS - English Language Learning
    • PhD - English Language Learning
    • MEd - English Language Learning
  • UMass Global

    UMass Global responds quickly to information requests through this site.

    Suggested programs:
    • BA in Communications & Media
  • Purdue Global

    Purdue Global responds quickly to information requests through this site.

    Suggested programs:
    • BS in Communication - Business Fundamentals
    • BS in Communication - Digital Communication
    More information about Purdue Global
  • Full Sail University

    Full Sail University responds quickly to information requests through this site.

    Suggested programs:
    • Communications Bachelors with Creative Writing Concentration - Campus
    • Communications Bachelors with Media Communications Concentration - Campus
    • Bachelor of Fine Arts - Creative Writing for Entertainment
    More information about Full Sail University