The RWS Major
Think Critically. Write Strategically. Lead Effectively.
The Rhetoric and Writing Studies B.A. at SDSU is unique among colleges and universities in California and joins a growing trend of writing majors across the nation.
Why SDSU?
Located within the broader SDSU community, the RWS Department provides a small-campus feel with the opportunities of a larger network. Combining theory and practice, the department is home to the only rhetoric degree program in the California State University system. With hands-on internships, core courses in rhetorical theory and writing project management, and the Professional Writing specialization, SDSU’s RWS program offers tailored paths for future success.
Program Features
- Interdisciplinary Nature
The RWS program pairs well with other areas of study such as Business, Political Science, Philosophy, and English. - Supportive Community
Due to small class sizes, the department fosters close-knit faculty and peer relationships. - Comprehensive Approach
Courses prioritize the exploration of cultural and marginalized rhetorics and writing practices, encouraging diversity and open-minded thinking. - Successful Alumni
Graduates with a degree in RWS find career paths that match and exceed their passions.
Preparation for the Major
The prerequisites for the RWS Major consist of 6 units from:
- RWS 200 - Rhetoric of Written Arguments in Context (3 units) or JMS 210 - Social Media in the Digital Age (3 units)
- RWS 250 - Rhetoric in Everyday Life (3 units). [RWS 250 also satisfies a General Education requirement in Foundations of Learning, Humanities]
Requirements for the Major
The major is comprised of a minimum of 30 units in Rhetoric and Writing Studies.
Five core courses (15 units) are required:
- RWS 411 - Digital Rhetorics (3 units)
- RWS 498 - Seminar: Writing and Research (3 units)
- RWS 500W - Advanced Writing Strategies (3 units) or RWS 503W - Professional Writing (3 units)
- RWS 506 - Internship (3 units)
- RWS 410 - Rhetoric and Culture (3 units)
The remaining 15 units will be selected from upper-division elective courses in the Rhetoric and Writing Studies Department. See our courses page for more information.
Core Courses are offered on the following rotation:
| Fall | Spring | |
|---|---|---|
| Every Year | RWS 411 RWS 503 RWS 500 RWS 506 |
RWS 410 RWS 503 RWS 500 RWS 506 |
| Every Other Year | RWS 498 (starting Fall 2025) |
The program will produce graduates who will:
- Develop and apply contextually aware writing and rhetorical strategies for diverse audiences and genres.
- Propose and conduct research situated within conversations in the broader field to create new knowledge, advocate, and/or problem solve.
- Collaborate and compose with attention to equity, justice, and culture.
- Compose texts drawing on multiple ways of making meaning, including multiple modes, languages, and technologies.
- Analyze the ethical and critical dimensions of texts, technologies, and of composing.
- Reflect on writing and critical practices and productively engage feedback.
Meet Greg Papania
Majoring in RWS was not Greg's first plan. He was originally working toward a degree in chemistry, but, before entering his third year of college, he made the difficult decision to switch majors.
Career Paths & Opportunities
Communication is the backbone of nearly all professional sectors, with many employers relying upon individuals with critical reading and writing skills. RWS prepares students for such work, opening the door to various professional post-graduate opportunities. Careers are available to RWS students in fields including STEM to business, education, or media. Among the department's graduates, alumni succeed in the roles of writing instructor and tutor, freelance and corporate writer, marketing professional, grant writer, scientific writer, videogame developer, and more.
Professional & Technical Writing
Technical Writer: Draft proposals that help secure funding for process and product development.
Medical Writer: Specializes in healthcare documentation, creating content that conveys medical information clearly and accurately.
Publishing & Media
Digital Media Specialist: Create digital campaigns that connect brands with audiences.
Education & Research
Curriculum Developer: Design innovative educational materials and programs.
NonProfit & Government
Grant Writer: Amplify voices and causes with compelling narratives.
Legal & Policy Writing
Policy Writer: Analyze, draft, and refine policies that align with legal and social standards.
Consulting & Freelance
Writing Coach: Guide individuals to achieve their writing goals with tailored feedback and strategies.
Advising
Suzanne Bordelon
Professor and Undergraduate Advisor
Office: Storm Hall 112B | Email: [email protected]
See our Undergraduate Advising Assistance page for more information.
