Localize Your School Search
Degrees and Schools
Career tips, salaries, and lists of schools.
Associate, bachelor's, master's and Ph.D. technical writing degrees are available. The bachelor's degree programs prepare students to write in fields such as science, engineering, technology, computer related communications and healthcare. Students are prepared to write for a wide range of fields and for a wide array of media. In addition, those who already have a bachelor's degree in another subject, may want to consider obtaining a certificate in technical writing.
Classes
Students typically study the following subjects:
- Print production
- Content management
- Scientific and technical writing
- Web site design
- Web site publishing
- Communication (scientific and technical)
- Technical editing
- Visual media (technical communication)
Online Classes and Programs
Online undergraduate and graduate degrees in technical writing are offered by accredited colleges and universities.
Employment Requirements
Employers usually seek applicants who have a bachelor's degree in journalism, communications or English. Some technical writing jobs require experience and either a degree or knowledge in a specific field such as engineering or medicine. A solid foundation in web design and computer graphics is helpful due to the growing use of online technical documentation.
The primary employment sectors for technical writers are computer systems and software, computer and electronics manufacturing; management, scientific and technical consulting services; architectural, engineering and related services; scientific research and development services; publishing, and information technology related sectors.
How to Evaluate Schools and Programs
Answers to the questions shown below can help students choose the appropriate school:
- Training - Do students get to work with real clients? Does the program include an externship? Do students have a variety of externship choices?
- School's Reputation - Is the school recognized for its technical writing programs?
- Job Placement - Are students provided job placement services? Do employers of technical writers visit the school to recruit students? Does the school provide job fairs?
- Curriculum - What type of electives are offered? Can students select an area of specialization? Does the program provide the latest technology and software?
- Financial Aid - What types of financial aid are available? Is the school eligible to provide federal financial aid?
- Accreditation - Is the school accredited by an agency which has been approved by the United States Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education?
Technical Writers Job Description
Technical writers interpret complex ideas, procedures and instructions and present them in a manner that can be understood by readers. Technical writers, create a variety of technical written materials including manuals, catalogs, proposals, part listings and instructions.
They often use easy to understand language to explain scientific, engineering, technical and healthcare subjects. Many technical writers also work in information technology related businesses. Technical writers are increasingly using various types of multimedia formats.
Shown below are some of the responsibilities of technical writers:
- Develop documentation for computer programs
- Gather information
- Edit materials prepared by other writers or individuals
- Organize materials for projects
- Revise their text to improve it
- Choose photographs, drawings, charts and diagrams to illustrate material
- Confer with customers or others to establish technical specifications and determine subject material
- Discuss revisions with publishers and clients
Resources
Online Course Finder
Find the path to your
education in 3 easy steps.
