MS in Scientific & Technical Communication

The master of science (MS) in scientific & technical communication prepares students for local and global careers in online design and social media, software/hardware documentation, information architecture, medical communication, environmental communication, and human-computer interface design.

Designed for working professionals, the fully online MS program includes 21 credits (7 courses) in the Department of Writing Studies and nine credits (typically three courses) in a related field competency area that may also be fulfilled by a graduate-level minor.

To complete in two years: 

• Five courses in year one that introduce students to the field of technical communication and cover topics such as writing with digital technologies, information design, usability and human factors, and editing and style.
• Five courses in year two, which include the following:
  • The related field competency area: typically three courses (9 credits) outside the major. 
  • An elective course in health, science and medical writing; international professional communication; or grant and proposal management. 
  •  A final professional practice capstone course.

If a student has previously completed the certificate in technical communication (year one courses), all five courses transfer to the MS program upon admission.