Department of Rhetoric and Language

We provide students with the resources to excel in all aspects of communication, literacy, and rhetoric, concentrated in:

• Composition: Designed to increase each undergraduate student's ability in writing, including not only how to write but also how to read analytically and think critically.
• Public speaking: Introduces students to the fundamentals of oral communication and increases their ability to make effective presentations in classroom and public settings.
• Academic English for Multilingual Students: Provides a variety of classes for multilingual students to assist them in refining their skills in written and oral English.

Programs & Projects

Writing Center

Get help polishing your writing. You can schedule a free 30-minute in-person, phone, or Zoom appointment with a USF faculty member at the Writing Center. Our teachers have extensive experience with many types and styles of writing.

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Speaking Center

The Speaking Center helps you prepare for speeches, oral presentations, team presentations, and PowerPoint demonstrations. Public speaking coaches are trained USF students who are skilled, experienced public speakers and have excellent grades in public speaking.

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Writing for a Real World

Writing for a Real World (WRW) is a multidisciplinary anthology of USF undergraduate writing dedicated to providing a public forum for the finest undergraduate academic writing. WRW publishes student writing with commentary from students and their instructors.

Learn More about Writing for a real World

Martín-Baró Scholars Community

In the Martín-Baró Scholars living-learning community program, you can develop abilities in observation, discussion, analysis, and writing through a multidimensional lens. You will engage with a specific societal problem by doing significant service with one community partner for an entire academic year.

Learn More about the Martin-Baro Scholars Community

Academic English for Multilingual Students

The program stresses academic English and university preparation for international students who are conditionally admitted to the University and need to improve their English skills.

Learn More about the Academic English program for Multilingual students