Why Iowa?

Writing and communication have been at the center of the University of Iowa’s educational mission for a century. Rhetoric is an essential part.

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Why is rhetoric required?

It’s simple: writing and speaking well is essential for any career path you choose. Excellent writing and speaking skills—what universities call “rhetoric”—will set you apart from your peers in the job market and help you succeed.

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Employers say the top skill they need is communication. They want you to know how to present your ideas clearly and persuasively. We'll prepare you to do just that so you can succeed in the classroom and workplace.

News and announcements

Outstanding article featuring writing at Iowa

Thursday, September 26, 2024
This article shines a much-deserved spotlight on writing at Iowa and has particularly great coverage of the Writing Center. Thank all of you for contributing to Iowa's high ranking.

Longevity Award

Monday, July 1, 2024
Congratulations to Deirdre Egan, who is celebrating a ten-year work-anniversary milestone!

One Day for Iowa

Saturday, March 2, 2024
Learn more about donating to the Department of Rhetoric.

Justin Cox’s recent publications.

Saturday, September 30, 2023
A look at some of Justin Cox's recent publications.

Events

Art & Write Night promotional image

Art & Write Night

Friday, December 6, 2024 6:00pm to 8:00pm
University of Iowa Museum of Natural History
Join the long, rich, historical tradition of artists creating in our spaces. Professional, aspiring, and amateur artists alike, make our museum your muse. The return of this popular program series welcomes guests into the Museum of Natural History's magical gallery spaces after-hours to work on sketching or writing projects with other campus and community artists. Tell a friend, grab a notebook, and join us on the first Friday of each month. We'll provide a new inspo prompt for each session...
Art & Write Night promotional image

Art & Write Night

Friday, February 7, 2025 6:00pm to 8:00pm
University of Iowa Museum of Natural History
Join the long, rich, historical tradition of artists creating in our spaces. Professional, aspiring, and amateur artists alike, make our museum your muse. The return of this popular program series welcomes guests into the Museum of Natural History's magical gallery spaces after-hours to work on sketching or writing projects with other campus and community artists. Tell a friend, grab a notebook, and join us on the first Friday of each month. We'll provide a new inspo prompt for each session...
Art & Write Night promotional image

Art & Write Night

Friday, March 7, 2025 6:00pm to 8:00pm
University of Iowa Museum of Natural History
Join the long, rich, historical tradition of artists creating in our spaces. Professional, aspiring, and amateur artists alike, make our museum your muse. The return of this popular program series welcomes guests into the Museum of Natural History's magical gallery spaces after-hours to work on sketching or writing projects with other campus and community artists. Tell a friend, grab a notebook, and join us on the first Friday of each month. We'll provide a new inspo prompt for each session...
Art & Write Night promotional image

Art & Write Night

Friday, April 4, 2025 6:00pm to 8:00pm
University of Iowa Museum of Natural History
Join the long, rich, historical tradition of artists creating in our spaces. Professional, aspiring, and amateur artists alike, make our museum your muse. The return of this popular program series welcomes guests into the Museum of Natural History's magical gallery spaces after-hours to work on sketching or writing projects with other campus and community artists. Tell a friend, grab a notebook, and join us on the first Friday of each month. We'll provide a new inspo prompt for each session...
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