Technical Writing (Certificate)

Location(s): Main Campus

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Program Summary

The Technical Writing Certificate program of study focuses on the skills that are required for technical writers, also called technical communicators. These skills include technical writing, writing theory, journalism, editing, and web writing. Existing courses from the Departments of Communication and English are part of this certificate. The certificate is cross listed and housed in both the Communications and English Departments because 1) both departments contribute to the required and elective courses and 2) students have the benefit of faculty mentors and advisers in both departments.

Program Information

All courses must be passed with a “C-” (1.7) or better to be counted in the certificate.
Students are encouraged to combine this certificate with a major or minor in a scientific or technical field.

Certificate Completion

This certificate program may be completed independently and does not require enrollment in or completion of any degree program to be awarded.

Technical Writing Curriculum (21 Credits)

Required Courses (15 Credits)

COMM 1130 - Writing for Communication 3 Credit(s)
ENGL 1410 - Introduction to Grammar 3 Credit(s)
ENGL 2010 - Intermediate Writing 3 Credit(s)
ENGL 2040 - Writing in Professional Contexts 3 Credit(s)

Complete One of the Following

COMM 4240 - Technical Writing 3 Credit(s)
ENGL 3120 - Grant and Technical Writing 3 Credit(s)

Elective Courses (6 Credits)

Complete 6 credits from the following:

COMM 1070 - Introduction to Visual Communication Graphics 3 Credit(s)
COMM 3080 - Digital Design 3 Credit(s) (requires additional prerequisite not in certificate)
COMM 4240 - Technical Writing 3 Credit(s) (if not completed in required courses)
ENGL 3120 - Grant and Technical Writing 3 Credit(s) (if not completed in required courses)
ENGL 3890 - Writing Tutor Practicum 1-3 Credit(s) (first time must be taken for 3 credits) 3 Credit(s)
ENGL 4970 - Literary Journal Editing 1-2 Credit(s) (may be taken for 3 credits) 3 Credit(s)

Total Credits, Certificate: 21

Program Learning Outcomes

Students develop and express ideas and will be able to do so in a variety of ways, namely in writing, by speaking, visually, kinesthetically, through design or aurally.
Students design, evaluate, and implement strategies to answer open-ended questions or achieve a desired goal.
Students make connections among ideas and experiences and can synthesize and transfer their learning to new, complex situations within and beyond the campus.