I want to be a writer in the near future, and I already know how to write appropriately but I have never taken a single college course in my life. My question is: Do certificate programs hold any value at all when it comes to future opportunities in the field of professional writing?
Certificate programs can be very valuable depending on what you are planning to use them for. Although you may think you are a master at writing, I can assure you that there is nothing better than furthering your knowledge through life. Writer’s workshops could be a good alternative if you have no interest in attending school for a degree. The other unfortunate fact is that most companies are not going to want to hire you unless you have a degree.
———
In the world of professional writing (as in any art), all that truly matters is your talent. Nobody cares where or when you studied as long as you produce quality work. The arts are among the few professions that still work almost entirely on the ability of the artist. Writing is an art.
That said, further education can improve your ability as a writer. So, yes, certificate programs do have some value. But, only to the extent that they improve your writing. A trip around the world has the same value if it improves your writing