MS in Technical Communication

Students in the MS in Technical Communication (previously called the MS in Scientific & Technical Communication) develop the knowledge and skills to advance in the field of technical communication while specializing in an area of interest. The program prepares students for positions in online design, software/hardware documentation, information architecture, medical communication, and more. 

Graduate Handbook

Review our Certificate & MS handbook for current requirements and policies.

MS Program Requirements

The MS in Technical Communication requires 30 credits and requires coursework within and beyond the Department of Writing Studies to support students pursuing niche knowledge in areas of interest such as information design, public health, or policy.

Core Courses (15 Credits)

MS students complete the same five core courses as Certificate students:

• WRIT 5001: Foundations and Futures of Technical Communication (3 credits)
• WRIT 5112: Information Design (3 credits)
• WRIT 5501: Usability and Human Factors in Technical Communication (3 credits)
• WRIT 5561: Editing and Style for Technical Communicators (3 credits)
• WRIT 5662: Writing with Digital Technologies (3 credits)

Elective Course (3 Credits)

The elective course allows MS students to specialize their studies in an area of interest. Students select one of the following courses based on their goals and course availability:

• WRIT 4562: International Professional Communication (3 credits)
• WRIT 4573W: Writing Proposals and Grant Management (3 credits) 
• WRIT 5664: Science, Medical, and Health Writing (3 credits)

Outside Coursework (9 Credits)

MS students complete nine credits of coursework (typically three 3-credit courses) outside of the Department of Writing Studies. Outside coursework allows students to further specialize and expand their knowledge and skills. Many of our students pursue courses related to the health sciences, user experience and usability, information design, and pedagogy.

Capstone Course (3 Credits)

All MS students must complete WRIT 8505: Professional Practice. This course allows students to synthesize what they’ve learned in the MS program to develop a professional portfolio. WRIT 8505 is offered each spring, and we encourage students to complete the course during or near their final term in the program.

Course Cadence

Students typically take one to two courses per term. Students select the number of courses per term that works best for their schedule, and the course load can change between terms as other priorities arise. Current and upcoming graduate-level courses are available in Schedule Builder.

Catalog Requirements