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Humanities & Culture

Writing & Rhetoric Program

Helen Shen is not only a financial analyst, she’s also a Writing and Rhetoric grad.

Helen Shen (B. Com., 2017) combined her Rotman Commerce program with a minor in Writing and Rhetoric. While she works as an analyst at BlackRock, an investment firm in New York, she has also independently produced, directed and written over 30 short films for film competitions. She previously worked part-time in marketing and with legal consultants. Learn more about Helen on LinkedIn.

What do employers value about Writing & Rhetoric Program graduates?

Within two years of graduation, 83% of graduates who are in the labour market are employed with a median salary of $48,176/year upon entering the workforce. 60% pursue further post-secondary studies. (Source: StatsCan Career Tool)

your degree after graduation

University of Toronto Writing and Rhetoric alumni most frequently apply their writing and analysis skills in these industries:

  • Education
  • Media and Communication
  • Research
  • Administration
  • Community and Social Services
  • Arts and Design
  • Operations
  • Marketing
  • Business Development
  • Information Technology 
  • Consulting
  • Entrepreneurship

graduate or professional school

A Writing and Rhetoric degree equips students with the critical thinking and research skills for a variety of academic next steps, including graduate programs in:

  • Communication
  • Law
  • Management
  • Creative Writing 
  • Journalism
  • Media Studies
  • English  
  • Education 
  • Medicine
  • Library and Information Systems 
  • Publishing 
  • Public Relations  
  • Marketing 

exploring opportunities while you're a student

Learn About yourself

Register for the Job Shadowing Program to connect with professionals in your career area of interest. During a half or full day job shadowing placement, you’ll begin to clarify your goals and better understand your career options.

Attend an In the Field program to meet professionals working in a variety of occupations within one organization.

Find a Work-Study Position and gain paid, on-campus positions that provide you with an opportunity to deepen your knowledge, strengthen your skills and explore how your academic studies translate to career possibilities.

Attend a career workshop or small group conversation to explore career possibilities, understand your skills, and plan for your career or further education. Visit clnx.utoronto.ca for more information.

Connect with Alumni

Participate in Innis Alumni Mentorship Program to create a fulfilling student experience, or to discover expectations and possibilities after graduation in one-to-one mentorship pairings.

The Backpack to Briefcase (b2B) program provides opportunities for students and recent graduates, to meet and mingle with alumni, faculty, staff and fellow students from their department or academic unit. Alumni who volunteer for b2B Industry Nights, Career Panels, Speed Networking events and Mentorship Meals, offer guidance, career advice and encouragement to A&S students. By taking part in b2B, students will learn about the array of career possibilities available to them as A&S degree recipients. 

Explore Your Options

While you’re a student, get the support and make the connections you need to transition into your dream career.

Talk to your professors to better understand and prioritize your opportunities in the context of your discipline. 

Visit Writing Centres in Arts and Science, St. George Campus to improve your writing.

Check events and news regularly on the program website.

Connect with the Innis College Librarian for help researching academic and career resources.

Learn about scholarships and awards offered annually to students in the program.