Reasons to Earn a Degree in Freelance Writing
Freelance writers have the opportunity to produce materials such as articles, books, movie scripts, and communication pieces for public relations and advertising agencies. With a degree in freelance writing, there is a multitude of possibilities including online writing, which is becoming increasingly popular and in high demand.
Freelance Writer Career Possibilities
Occupational Outlook and Demand
Because many people are attracted to this occupation, the Bureau of Labor Statistics mentions that writing jobs are competitive with employment opportunities expected to grow as fast as average in the next seven years. The BLS also mentions that online publications are becoming increasingly popular and those writers and editors with Web experience may find an easier time in the job market.
Salary Information
A third of writers in 2004 were self-employed or freelance, according to the Occupational Outlook Handbook and as such, salary ranges are all over the board as individuals charge their own rates. The OOH reported that salary writers in 2004 earned between $31,720 and $62,930 a year.
Freelance Writer Degree Specifics
Coursework Requirements
Writers, depending on the specific program or area of interest, can be found taking a variety of courses from technical writing to news writing. Some of the general classes taught in all areas of writing programs include:
- AP or Chicago-Style Handbook Writing
- Writing for Business
- Fiction, Nonfiction and Other Writing Genres
Skills Learned
In addition to honing your creative skills, a degree in freelance writing will leave you with the skills to:
- Work with clients and customers effectively, providing them with the right writing resources
- Conduct research and establish resources for writing projects
- Write for a variety of genres and audiences
