Register by July 15, 2025. This is an online asynchronous class offered in a time-flexible learning format from September to December 2025. Eligible for PIBC CPL units.
This course is an introduction to the essential skills of writing effectively for government and public sector organizations. Develops skills in focusing on a purpose, writing for different audiences, structuring information effectively and writing clear, concise and correct English. You will gain extensive practice in writing briefing notes, memos, correspondence and reports.
Please visit the Professional Communication in the Workplace program page to enrol in this course. Students must enrol in the three-course micro-certificate program rather than the individual courses.
Learning Objectives:
- Develop an understanding of the specific contexts for writing inside government, particularly in terms of organizational structure, accountability, and regulatory mandates
- Refine the mechanics of communication (such as grammar, punctuation and sentence structure), while considering such influences as audience, genre, and document design
- Develop an understanding of how genre affects the practice of professional communication, through the reading and analysis of documents exemplifying specific government writing formats
- Appreciate the purpose, and the effect on the audience, of practicing consistent voice, house style, and "government style"
- Practice the planning, drafting, and revision of documents within genres central to government and the public sector, such as letters, media releases, briefing notes, and proposals
- Demonstrate the ability to read, rewrite, and repurpose documents for different audiences (such as briefing notes for senior staff, or letters for members of the public)
Admission requirements:
Students must submit an application (required for professional learners entering the micro-certificate) that will be assessed for prior learning or professional experience equivalent to pre-requisites for program’s 300-level courses.
- Delivery Style: Online Asynchronous
Date: Sept. 3 - Dec. 3, 2025
Enrol in the program by: July 15, 2025
Instructor: Dr. Richard Pickard
Fees: $641.48, plus UVSS fees as applicable
Credit and Non-Credit options available
This course has to be taken as part of the three-course Professional Communication in the Workplace Micro-Certificate
