Professional Program Options

We offer two fully online programs for students to develop or enhance their knowledge and skills in technical communication: a Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Technical Communication and a Master of Science (MS) in Technical Communication (previously called the MS in Scientific & Technical Communication). Additionally, we offer a professional minor for students already enrolled in another masters program at UMN. Our programs emphasize collaboration with workplace professionals through client projects, virtual and global teamwork, mentorships, and emerging technologies. Students in our programs also have the opportunity to engage with technical communication industry leaders through our Technical Communication Advisory Program. Graduates of our programs pursue local and global careers in: 

• technical writing and editing; 
• online design and social media; 
• software/hardware documentation; 
• information architecture; 
• medical and environmental communication; and 
• human-computer interface design.
   

Certificate and MS Programs 

The fully online Certificate in Technical Communication and MS in Technical Communication are designed for working professionals looking to advance their careers in technical communication. All courses are offered online and asynchronously, and students typically take one to two courses per term. You can apply to begin either program in the fall, spring, or summer term.

If a Certificate student applies for and is accepted into the MS program, their core coursework transfers automatically from the Certificate to the MS. Many students start with the Certificate and transition to the MS. 

Graduate Minor

Interested in adding a graduate minor in technical communication to another masters program? Review our Graduate Minor in Technical Communication (previously called the Graduate Minor in Scientific & Technical Communication)!

Non-Degree Graduate Credit

The Certificate and MS programs welcome non-degree-seeking students to take their graduate courses. Prospective students should contact the class instructor for permission. Please view our Non-Degree Graduate Credit page for more information about the registration process.