A new microcredential from the Professional Writing and Rhetoric program prepares students to use AI thoughtfully and ethically across the writing process—building real-world communication skills that meet the demands of today’s professional landscape.
The English Department’s Professional Writing and Rhetoric (PWR) program is launching a new AI and Professional Writing Badge, a microcredential that introduces students to the evolving role of artificial intelligence in writing. Designed to meet the demands of a rapidly changing professional landscape, the badge helps students learn how to use AI tools effectively, ethically and creatively throughout the writing process.
A recent survey of Elon University alumni conducted by PWR faculty found that 65% use AI to enhance their personal and professional writing. These data highlight a growing trend: AI is increasingly becoming a common tool in workplace writing across a wide range of industries. In response, the new Bbadge aims to position students at the forefront of these changes, equipping them with the skills needed to work effectively with emerging AI tools.
The AI Badge builds on PWR’s foundation in writing technologies and multimodal composition, offering students hands-on experience with AI throughout the entire writing process—from brainstorming, drafting and revising text as well as designing visual content. Students will also explore the ethical implications of AI and develop the critical literacy needed to assess the strengths, limitations, and potential biases of different tools. Grounded in the traditional writing strategies already taught in the PWR curriculum, this new badge helps students apply those skills in real-world, tech-driven contexts—preparing them to meet the evolving demands of today’s professional environment.
By earning the AI and Professional Writing Badge, students will develop essential AI literacy that makes them more competitive in today’s job market. With AI Literacy becoming a critical skill in the workplace, this badge helps students stand out by ensuring they’re not only proficient in AI-assisted writing but also able to make informed, responsible decisions about when and how to use these technologies.
The AI Badge is open to all students, regardless of major or discipline. Because AI is relevant across fields—from business and communications to technology—this badge is especially valuable for students looking to strengthen their digital writing skills. To earn the badge, students must take two PWR courses, attend a PWR guest speaker event and participate in the annual PWR portfolio workshop offered each Spring. Finally, students will create a digital portfolio showcasing how they’ve used AI to enhance their writing and reflecting on their growth as writers and prompters throughout the process.
As AI continues to shape the professional world, the PWR program aims to ensure that students are prepared with the necessary skills to navigate the digital writing landscape in the most ethical and productive way possible. More information about the badge can be found on the registrar’s Digital Badging page or the university’s Credly website.