Why Writing Matters at
Saginaw Valley State University

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Writing at SVSU

Our Mission Statement describes SVSU as a university that "creates opportunities for individuals to achieve intellectual and personal development" as it "prepares graduates whose leadership and expertise contribute to the advancement of a pluralistic society."

To develop leadership capabilities and professional expertise, students must become effective communicators. Because effective writing is an expectation in all professions, writing is integrated into all aspects of the curriculum.

 

Writing in the Disciplines

Each discipline or field of study shares some common expectations with writers in other disciplines (e.g., clarity, logical organization, evidence for assertions, appropriate citations). However, each field of study also has unique expectations and conventions that reflect the values and processes in that discipline.

Click on a department below to learn about specific writing characteristics of each program, including why writing matters, typical writing assignments, qualities of good writing, appropriate types of evidence and support, and citation conventions.

You will find other valuable information as well, including Braun Writing Awards model papers in nine departments; links to other departmental writing guidelines; video messages from faculty whose insights can guide you as you develop your writing competencies.

There has never been a time in human history when people everywhere have conducted so much of their personal and professional life via writing--whether that writing is formal reports, text messages to friends, online job applications, and the like. Developing your writing competencies is an investment in yourself and a foundation for a successful future!

College of Arts and Behavioral Sciences

College of Business and Management

College of Education

College of Health and Human Services

College of Science, Engineering and Technology

(* Page includes faculty video)

Reading in the Disciplines

See the following:
“Reading Across the Curriculum as the Key to Student Success.” Across the Disciplines, 4, May 14, 2007. http://wac.colostate.edu/atd/articles/horning2007.cfm

Perspective on Writing

Dr. Eric Gilbertson,
President of SVSU