Major overview
Turn your passion for words into a career in professional communications.
Learn how to research, write, edit and publish content for a range of audiences, platforms and professional contexts.
You'll explore diverse genres and writing styles while gaining practical experience in contemporary publishing and professional communications.
You’ll learn to produce and edit feature articles, speeches, reports, discussion papers, website content, creative nonfiction, media releases and other forms of content for the workplace. You’ll also learn about copyright, censorship, plagiarism and the ethics of writing in the public domain.
In your final semester, you may have the opportunity to complete a professional placement with an industry employer or gain hands-on publishing experience with Elephant Page Publishing, Curtin's student-run publishing house that celebrates new voices and talent.
This major also has the option of a portfolio development unit, where you can build your personal brand and a portfolio to establish your position as a professional writer.
Professional Writing and Publishing is offered as part of the Bachelor of Arts. You can enhance your studies with a second major or choose from a range of elective units that support your career goals. You can also study this major as part of a double degree (see combinations below).
Detailed course structure and unit information
For detailed information on units and course structure, visit our Handbook.
Why study at Curtin?
#1 in WA
Curtin ranks first in WA for Communication and Media Studies (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2026)
Real-world publishing experience
Gain hands-on experience with Elephant Page Publishing, a student-run publishing house where you can help produce books for readers.
Work experience
You could undertake a professional placement with an industry employer, such as a small business or government department, in a content creation role.
How to study this major
You can study this major as part of any of the degrees below. A major is a set of eight or more units you complete as part of a degree, including at least two in your final year. The units may vary depending on the degree you choose.
Career outcomes
Employers across all sectors need professional staff who can research, write, edit and publish compelling informational and creative content.
Career examples
- Copywriter / writer
- Editor
- Publisher
- Media and communications advisor
- Content creator
Industries
- Media and public relations
- Publishing
- Government / public service
Why study at Curtin?
#1 in WA
Curtin ranks first in WA for Communication and Media Studies (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2026)
Real-world publishing experience
Gain hands-on experience with Elephant Page Publishing, a student-run publishing house where you can help produce books for readers.
Work experience
You could undertake a professional placement with an industry employer, such as a small business or government department, in a content creation role.
Hear from our students
"I chose this course because I wanted to discover what a career in publishing could look like. I loved the opportunities that were available to us throughout the course, and I got to do a communications internship at Regional Arts WA. In a roundabout way, doing publishing gave me the skills I needed to move my way into my current marketing position, by teaching me skills of writing, editing, and the psychology of what people want to read and consume."
Matylda Bejger
Bachelor of Arts (Professional Writing and Publishing)
How to apply
This major is part of a degree. To apply, choose the degree you want to study and review its entry requirements. Then, prepare any required documents and submit your application before the deadline for your chosen intake.
After you receive and accept your offer, you can enrol in this major either at the start of your degree or later in your studies, depending on your course structure.
Choose your degree
To study this major, you'll need to apply one of the degrees listed below.
For full entry requirements, fees and information for international students, visit the course page.
Explore more
Find more resources to help you take the next step in your Curtin journey.