Influence impact by writing compelling policy stories

It’s easy to think that data speaks for itself. But data alone often isn’t enough. Analysts, advocates, fundraisers and policymakers must be skilled writers who can convey policy stories that persuade readers to take meaningful action to address a pressing policy challenge. 

The Persuasive Writing Credential is a six-week course to practice evidence-based writing and strategies that incite meaningful action. Through interactive lectures and case studies, you will cultivate a robust toolkit to write, revise, and polish persuasive policy stories tailored to meet the unique needs of your audience.

Features

  • No prior experience in professional writing or editing required
  • 100% online with interactive, synchronous lectures
  • Capstone writing project and deliverable
  • Shareable certification of completion to showcase your skills
  • Submit your application by our final June 6th deadline
Course Overview
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Subjects

Persuasive Writing , Policy Writing

Level

All levels are welcome with adaptable content and customized teaching

Duration

6 weeks, approximately 6-9 hours per week

Dates

July 17 - August 25, 2023

Cost

$1,500

Format

Virtual Online

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David Chrisinger, Instructor

Executive Director and Writing Director in the Academic and Student Affairs office, where he leads the Harris Writing Program and the Persuasive Writing Credential Program..

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Explore the program details.

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Write, revise, and refine persuasive policy stories

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Simple application and no application fee, start your application today!

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Read the stories of past participants and where they went next

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Chat with the team and attend an upcoming event

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Meet Our Alumni

Ana Clara Gobbes Faira

“Even though I don’t explicitly have a background in public policy, I felt so well-guided that it didn’t even matter. Writing Program Director David Chrisinger often provided example texts so we could not only get a sense of the policy question but also of how to structure the specific type of writing piece we were working on.”

Read more on Ana's story
Tamara Pilot
Meet Our Alumni

Tamara Pilot

“I felt connected to a like-minded group of people who were trying to solve a myriad of problems facing our world today. There was a lot of passion and commitment in the 'room' to make something positive happen and make the world a better place. That energy was really motivating.”

Read Pilot's publication Venezuela’s Shameful Secret.
Jake Huff
Meet Our Alumni

Jake Huff

“I've never been in a class like this, which broke down the mechanics of policy writing in such clear and practical ways. It made me a better writer!”

Jamie Sawyer, PWC 2022
Meet Our Alumni

Jamie Sawyer

“David brought a sense of community to an online course like I have never seen before. He made it easy to learn and engage with the content.” 

Strengthen Your Skillset

Engage in an interactive virtual classroom and build a global UChicago network

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