Area professionals who want to sharpen their communication or computer skills will find help this fall in courses being offered by the University of Rochester's Office of Special Programs.

Writing for the Professional, a two-part series, includes classes in newsletter creation; proofreading and editing; and technical, procedure, business case, grant proposal, and memo/letter writing. Certain selections lead to a certificate in professional writing, though courses can be taken individually.

Also offered this fall will be computer training. Courses include Microsoft Mail, Excel, Access, Powerpoint and three levels of Word, as well as Adobe Photoshop on the Macintosh, programming in C/C++ and Perl, and UNIX system administration. Customized computer training also is available in conjunction with the University's Computing Center.

Intensive English classes for non-native professionals will be offered as part of the University's English as a Second Language program. These mini-courses offer instruction in specific areas of English language study. Students can learn about U.S. culture, prepare for the TOEFL, practice writing and conversation, or focus specifically on business communication.

Some classes begin Sept. 2. For more course details and registration information, call the Office of Special Programs at (585) 275-2341, or send an e-mail to ospecial@troi.cc.rochester.edu.