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Technical Communication and Professional Writing Major BA

The major in Technical Communication and Professional Writing provides students with a foundation in the writing, editing, research, and digital communication skills that are essential for writing professionals in industry, government, non-profit and freelance careers. Faculty who teach in the program combine academic and workplace experience, educating students in both ideas and implementation, principles and practice.

In addition to completing a core curriculum, students select a track in either Technical Communication or Professional Writing to complete the major.

Technical Communication Track: Technical communication is a growing field that has become an increasingly important mediator between technologies and the people who use them. Students completing this track take classes in technical writing, advanced Web writing and design, the use of instructional media, and trends in communication technology. The Technical Communication track prepares students for careers in growing areas such as web content development and design, online education and training, technical editing, technical marketing communications, and product documentation.

Professional Writing Track: The Professional Writing track prepares students to become creative, versatile, and digitally savvy communicators who understand how to write and edit in both print and electronic environments. Students in this track take classes in writing for publication, as well as writing for social media and multimedia. They also choose from a rich array of electives, including courses in grant writing, freelance writing, book publishing, public relations writing, and screenwriting. The Professional Writing track prepares students for careers in such fields as magazine writing and editing; grant writing; writing for marketing or public relations; employee communications; web content development; and print and electronic publishing.

Acceptance to the Program

To be eligible for acceptance to the Technical Communication and Professional Writing major, students must submit a College of Arts and Sciences Undergraduate Program Declaration Form. Consult with an advisor before enrolling in courses toward the major.

Technical Communication and Professional Writing Major BA

Acceptance to the Program

Core Curriculum (27-28 cr including prerequisites)

Prerequisites (4 cr)

Requirements (23-24 cr)

Technical Communication Track (19 cr)

Requirements (15 cr)

Electives (4 cr) One class from the following:

Professional Writing Track (19-20 cr)

Requirements (8 cr)

Electives (12 cr)