Plain Language Certificate
Do you need to communicate complex information? From government to health care to law, demand is growing for plain language specialists in a variety of work settings. In our online certificate program, you’ll learn practical techniques to strip away jargon and bureaucratese and produce clear, accessible writing that speaks directly to your intended audience.
Overview
Why this program?
- Gain the knowledge to work as a plain language specialist
- Take hands-on courses aligned with the ISO plain language standards published by the International Plain Language Federation, Plain Language Association International, Clarity and the Center for Plain Language
- Build specialized writing skills in your choice of areas, such as health or law
- Learn from experienced plain language practitioners
- Study fully online following a flexible schedule
- Start with individual courses and apply to the program at any time
- Graduate with a certificate that confers SFU alumni status along with its benefits
Format
Part-time
Location
Online
Program completion
1 to 5 years (from start date of first course)
To graduate, complete all courses with a minimum average grade of B- (70%).
Course duration
3–10 weeks
Course work
6–10 hours/week
Schedule
Self-paced within set deadlines
Courses
Required courses in recommended order (but take in any order, except PLNL410, which should be completed last):
- Plain Language Principles (PLNL110)
- Efficient Business and Professional Writing (BCPW205)
- Research, Analysis and Information Design (TCOM210)
- Plain Graphics and Design (PLNL310)
- Strategies in Audience Analysis (PLNL320)
- Plain Language Final Project (PLNL410)
Elective courses (minimum 2; choose from list):
- Writing Plain Language for Law (PLNL510)
- Plain Language in Health Literacy (PLNL520)
- Technical Writing and Editing (TCOM120)
- Copy Editing (EDIT210)
Learning materials
See individual courses for textbook details
Cost
$350–$930/course, not including textbooks
$99 program application fee
Application info
No application deadline. Take individual courses and apply to the program at any time.
Application requirements
- Grade 12 or equivalent
- Mature students who do not meet this requirement may qualify with at least 5 years of appropriate experience
- Advanced English Language Requirements
Register for individual courses at any time, with the option to apply to the program later.
Enroll in the certificate program to:
- Track your progress in your student account
- Access potential tax credits
- Be eligible to graduate when you finish
About our Collection of Personal Information policy.
Attend an online info session
Reserve your spot to explore the program and chat live with program staff.
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Kristen Clark has plenty of practice trying to make sense of head-scratching paragraphs. A former journalist, Kristen works as a communications specialist in the Auditor’s Office of the City and County of Denver, Colorado.
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Between managing two businesses and pursuing both SFU’s Plain Language Certificate and Indigenous Business Leadership Executive MBA at once, Angie Saltman has plenty to keep her busy.
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Erin Klingmann is so passionate about ensuring government communication materials are clear and accessible that she’s carved out a career for herself doing exactly that.
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