Professional writing courses can help you learn effective communication, audience analysis, content organization, and persuasive techniques. You can build skills in editing, creating engaging narratives, and writing for various formats, such as reports, proposals, and digital content. Many courses introduce tools like Grammarly for grammar checking, Trello for project management, and Google Docs for collaborative writing, helping you streamline the writing process and enhance your productivity.

University of Michigan
Skills you'll gain: Writing and Editing, Editing, Constructive Feedback, Concision, Writing, Organizational Skills, Proofreading, Storytelling, Productivity, Planning, Detail Oriented, Time Management, Brainstorming, Content Creation, Overcoming Obstacles, Resourcefulness, Lifelong Learning, Decision Making, Critical Thinking, Creativity
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

University of California, Irvine
Skills you'll gain: Grammar, Peer Review, Editing, Writing, Proofreading, Organizational Skills, Research, Report Writing, Research Methodologies, Critical Thinking, English Language, Writing and Editing, Style Guides
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

University of Colorado Boulder
Skills you'll gain: Business Writing, Business Correspondence, Business Communication, Writing, Organizational Skills, Concision, Writing and Editing, Proofreading, Grammar, Communication, Editing, Organizational Strategy, Persuasive Communication, Verbal Communication Skills, Communication Strategies
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Kennesaw State University
Skills you'll gain: Sales Prospecting, Prospecting and Qualification, Sales Process, Overcoming Objections, Selling Techniques, Verbal Communication Skills, Sales, Sales Presentation, B2B Sales, Sales Strategy, Customer Relationship Building, Needs Assessment, Sales Pipelines, Solution Selling, Communication, Consumer Behaviour, Lead Generation, Telephone Skills, Rapport Building, Product Demonstration
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Georgia Institute of Technology
Skills you'll gain: Business Writing, Business Correspondence, Business Communication, Writing, Writing and Editing, Grammar, Proofreading, Editing, Communication, Cultural Diversity, Intercultural Competence
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

University of Michigan
Skills you'll gain: Writing, Storytelling, Editing, Detail Oriented, Resourcefulness, Decision Making, Creativity, Communication Strategies, Professionalism, Time Management
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

University of California, Irvine
Skills you'll gain: Business Writing, Business Correspondence, Concision, Editing, Grammar, Proofreading, Business Communication, Report Writing, Global Marketing, Writing, Target Audience, Communication, Virtual Teams, Press Releases, Persuasive Communication, Presentations
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Stanford University
Skills you'll gain: Grant Writing, Peer Review, Technical Writing, Technical Communication, Writing, Scientific Methods, Journals, Editing, Grammar, Research, Proofreading, Healthcare Ethics, Media and Communications
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

University of Michigan
Skills you'll gain: Writing and Editing, Editing, Writing, Organizational Skills, Productivity, Concision, Time Management, Storytelling, Content Creation, Lifelong Learning, Professional Development, Communication Strategies, Critical Thinking, Creativity
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Board Infinity
Skills you'll gain: Technical Writing, Technical Documentation, Software Documentation, Technical Communication, Layout Design, Writing and Editing, Writing, Collaborative Software, Graphic and Visual Design, Augmented and Virtual Reality (AR/VR), Typography, Proofreading, Multimedia, Web Content Accessibility Guidelines, Content Management, GitHub, Version Control
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

University of California, Davis
Skills you'll gain: Large Language Modeling, Generative AI, Writing, Data Ethics, Responsible AI, Artificial Intelligence, Technical Writing, Model Evaluation, Machine Learning, Information Privacy
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Skills you'll gain: Prompt Engineering, Prompt Patterns, Critical Thinking, Critical Thinking and Problem Solving, Generative AI, Social Impact, Research, Responsible AI, Analytical Skills, Creative Thinking, Writing, Report Writing, Data Ethics, Business Writing, Creative Problem-Solving, Creativity, Personal Development, Self-Awareness, English Language, Computer Literacy
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Professional writing encompasses a range of writing styles and formats used in various professional contexts, including business, technical, and creative writing. It is essential because it facilitates clear communication, enhances understanding, and fosters collaboration in the workplace. Effective professional writing can influence decision-making, improve relationships, and contribute to the overall success of an organization.‎
A career in professional writing can lead to various job opportunities, including technical writer, content strategist, copywriter, grant writer, and communications manager. These roles often require strong writing skills and the ability to convey complex information clearly and concisely. Additionally, industries such as healthcare, technology, and marketing frequently seek skilled professional writers to create documentation, promotional materials, and reports.‎
To excel in professional writing, you should develop several key skills. These include strong grammar and punctuation, clarity and conciseness in writing, the ability to adapt your tone and style for different audiences, and proficiency in research and information synthesis. Familiarity with digital tools and platforms for writing and editing is also beneficial, as is the ability to collaborate with others in a professional setting.‎
Some of the best online courses for professional writing focus on specific skills and applications. For example, Writing Professional Email and Memos (Project-Centered Course) offers practical guidance on crafting effective emails and memos, which are crucial in any professional environment. Other courses may cover technical writing, business communication, or content creation, allowing you to tailor your learning to your career goals.‎
Yes. You can start learning professional writing on Coursera for free in two ways:
If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in professional writing, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.‎
To learn professional writing, start by identifying the specific areas you want to focus on, such as technical writing, business communication, or creative writing. Enroll in relevant online courses, read books and articles on writing best practices, and practice writing regularly. Seeking feedback from peers or mentors can also help you improve your skills and gain confidence in your writing.‎
Typical topics covered in professional writing courses include grammar and style, audience analysis, document design, writing for digital platforms, and ethical considerations in writing. Courses may also explore specific formats such as reports, proposals, and marketing materials, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of the various writing styles used in professional settings.‎
For training and upskilling employees, courses that focus on practical writing skills are particularly beneficial. Programs like the Writing Professional Email and Memos (Project-Centered Course) can help employees communicate more effectively in their roles. Additionally, courses that cover content creation and technical writing can enhance overall workplace communication and productivity.‎