Graduate Certificate of Writing
The writing suite of programs builds on the expertise of Swinburne academics in areas including creative writing, electronic writing, information management, eCommunications and writing for learning technologies. These programs will give students access to the best materials in print and online as well as to experts in their field. Students will be supported by online mentors and tutors.
The Graduate Certificate of Arts (Writing) forms the first stage in a three-stage nested suite of programs consisting of:
- Graduate Certificate of Writing (GC-WRI)
- Graduate Diploma of Writing (GD-WRI)
- Master of Writing (MA-WRI)
MEET US @ OPEN DAY
Sunday 31 July 10am – 4pm
Hawthorn campus
We're back and bigger than ever. See Swinburne up close and personal – with talks, tours, demos, hubs, and more – this Open Day. Register_now
Duration
6 months full-time or 1 year part-time
Intakes
Online (Study Period 1, Study Period 2, Study Period 3, Study Period 4) - View application and start dates
Study mode
- Online
2022 Start Dates
2023 Start Dates
Course information in detail
- Course detail, course structure and units of study.
Course description
- Graduate Certificate of Writing (GC-WRI)
- Graduate Diploma of Writing (GD-WRI)
- Master of Writing (MA-WRI)
Course structure
- four core units (50 credit points).
The course is delivered entirely online and is supported with eTutors, tutorials, print materials, websites and CD-ROMs.
Maximum Academic Credit
The maximum level of credit that can be granted for the Graduate Certificate of Writing is 25 credit points (normally two units)
Units of study
PWR60004 Journalism*
PWR60003 Research for Writers*
Careers and graduate outcomes
- Course aims and objectives and graduate skills.
Aims and objectives
- apply cognitive skills to review, analyse, consolidate and synthesise knowledge of writing theory and practice, and identify and provide solutions to complex problems related to the construction and interpretation of writing related texts, and to think critically to generate and evaluate complex ideas about one’s own writing and the writing of others
- apply specialised technical and creative skills needed to generate industry ready texts and to review and think critically about the writing of self and others
- use communication skills to demonstrate an understanding of the theoretical concepts related to writing and criticism needed to transfer complex knowledge and ideas to a variety of audiences of creative works
- demonstrate the application of knowledge and skills to make high level, independent judgements in a range of technical or management functions specific to creative practice in varied specialised contexts related to writing
- initiate, plan, implement and evaluate how both the broad and specific functions of writing and critique can be executed and maintained within varied specialised technical and/or creative contexts
- demonstrate responsibility and accountability for writing-related personal outputs and aspects of working with others within broad parameters, including through the development of sustainable and independent writing practices.

Graduate skills
- capable in their chosen professional, vocational or study areas
- entrepreneurial in contributing to innovation and development within their business, workplace or community
- effective and ethical in work and community situations
- adaptable and able to manage change
- aware of local and international environments in which they will be contributing.
Pathways and scholarships
- Credit transfer, recognition of prior learning and scholarships.
Course fees and requirements
- Entry requirements and non-year 12 entry.
Course fees
How do I pay my fees?
FEE-HELP is a loan given to eligible full-fee paying higher education students to help pay part or all of their tuition fees. The Commonwealth Government pays the amount of the loan directly to Swinburne.