Technical Writing and Communication B.S.

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College of Liberal Arts (TCLA) 201 - Bachelor of Science

Program description

The Department of Writing Studies offers a B.S. in Technical Writing and Communication (TWC).

Technical writing and communication creates a bridge between experts and various audiences who put knowledge into practice. The TWC major offers students who enjoy writing the opportunity to put into practice written, digital, oral, and visual communication theory, as it happens in the current workplace. Students will study writing and editing, rhetorical theory, visual rhetoric and document design, usability, and technical communication practices.

TWC majors examine how communication is a complex process that involves both the robust principles of audience, persuasion, clarity, accuracy, and ethical integrity, and a command of the knowledge of scientific and technical topics that one communicates.

Organizations, both for profit and non-profit, demand people who can communicate ideas or concepts clearly, ethically, and with authority. At the core of these communication skills is a knowledge of writing and how it creates understanding with particular audiences. TWC graduates work in many areas, including health, business, science, law, and technology. Technical writer, usability specialist, user experience designer, and content strategist are just a few of the titles our graduates hold.

Why major in TWC?

1. TWC majors are in demand and sought after by employers. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts technical communication as a career will grow faster than average over the next decade. And US News and World Report list "technical writer" in the top 100 jobs for 2020–2030.

2. Our advisory board of alumni and industry professionals offers networking, mentorship, internship, and job opportunities.

3. Students learn to use rhetoric as a powerful communication tool.

4. Students become familiar with current writing and web technologies.

5. TWC pairs well with other majors, including computer science, graphic design, biology, economics, political and environmental science.

6. Sub-plans enable students to focus their writing skills in one of four emphasis areas: information technology and design, biological and health sciences, legal discourse and public policy, or environmental science.

Program last updated

Fall 2024