Writing & Rhetoric
Writing & Rhetoric Program, Innis College, Faculty of Arts & Science
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 skills can Writing & Rhetoric graduates use in their careers?
Within two years of entering the labour market, 83% with undergraduate degrees in this area of study are employed with a median salary of $48,176/year.
60% of those graduates go on to pursue further education. (Sources: Statistics Canada Employment Income and Further Education Data from Class of 2020.)
Industry Pathways
Alumni with a degree in Writing and Rhetoric have often pursued these industries:
- Publishing & Editing
- Journalism & Broadcasting
- Public Relations & Corporate Communications
- Marketing & Advertising
- Postsecondary Education (Colleges & Universities)
- Educational Technology (EdTech)
- Tutoring & Academic Support Services
- Nonprofit & Advocacy Organizations
Further Education Pathways
Alumni with a degree in Writing and Rhetoric have often pursued these further education options:
- Master of Arts (MA)
- Master of Communication / Media Studies
- Master of Education (MEd)
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
- Master of Fine Arts (MFA)
- Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS)
- Teaching Certification
- Graduate Diploma
Exploring connections between your degree and career
Learn about yourself
Register for Job Shadowing to connect with professionals in your field of interest through a half- or full-day placement that helps clarify your goals and explore career paths.
Attend an In the Field program to meet professionals working in various roles within one organization.
Find a Work Study Position to apply your academic skills in paid, on-campus roles that offer hands-on experience and insight into career possibilities.
Join a career workshop or small group conversation to explore options, understand your strengths, and plan for your future. Visit the Career and Co-Curricular Learning Network (CLNx) for more information.
Build Your Network
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.
Find the University of Toronto on LinkedIn and connect with peers, professionals, and alumni who can support your career journey.
Access U of T's Hub on Ten Thousand Coffees —an online networking platform with over 12,000 students and alumni—to exchange career advice, attend webinars, and explore career paths through one-on-one conversations.
Join networking events, panels, and career fairs through CLNx to connect with employers and alumni for career advice, informational interviews, and referrals.
Volunteer opportunities are a great ways to expand your connections and gain industry insight.
Explore identity-focused mentorship opportunities—such as the Black Alumni Mentorship Program—to connect with mentors who share your lived experiences and can support your personal, academic, and professional growth. If you have questions about the program, connect with Modele Kuforiji at mod.kuforiji@utoronto.ca.
Student Life’s Mentorship & Peer Programs also provide engagement opportunities for African Black Caribbean, Latin American, Southeast Asian, and First-Generation students, helping to promote academic and career wellness while fostering belonging and community. If you have questions about this programming, contact Adonica Huggins at adonica.huggins@utoronto.ca.
Explore Your Program
Explore your area of study by connecting with faculty and peers and finding opportunities that enrich your academic and professional journey.
Talk to professors to better understand your discipline and identify meaningful learning experiences.
Get involved in student groups and leadership roles to spark new ideas, expand your perspective, and open unexpected opportunities.
Take advantage of faculty advising and support services, and explore internships through professional associations to gain hands-on experience in your field.
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.
