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

Honors Program Teaching Award

Wednesday, April 29, 2026

Scholarly Teaching Program

Monday, April 27, 2026

Rhetoric faculty members selected for 2026 Scholarly Teaching Program

Tuesday, April 14, 2026
Faculty members Elizabeth Crawford and Spencer Jones from the Department of Rhetoric in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences has been selected for the 2026 Scholarly Teaching Program, a competitive initiative focused on advancing evidence-based teaching. The program supports the development of new approaches to student learning, including the integration of data-driven and digital tools that enhance engagement and strengthen communication-focused instruction.

Events

Art & Write Night promotional image

Art & Write Night

Friday, May 1, 2026 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 and...

Rusty the Giant Ground Sloth's BIRTHDAY BASH promotional image

Rusty the Giant Ground Sloth's BIRTHDAY BASH

Monday, May 11, 2026 5:00pm to 8:00pm
University of Iowa Museum of Natural History
Join us for a wildly charming after-hours celebration: Rusty the Giant Ground Sloth’s Birthday Bash at the University of Iowa Museum of Natural History!
Art & Write Night promotional image

Art & Write Night

Friday, June 5, 2026 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 and...

Art & Write Night promotional image

Art & Write Night

Friday, August 7, 2026 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 and...

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