The Profession
Who they are: Technical communicators transform concepts and ideas into appropriate forms that audiences can use and understand such as reports, newsletters, policy, and procedure manuals, brochures, user manuals, videos, online documentation, multimedia, and websites.
What they do: Technical writers and communicators do far more than write. They also design information, integrate visuals, deliver presentations, and work in teams. Technical communicators may collaborate with scientists, engineers, doctors, designers, or computer programmers on products and services.
Where they work: Technical writers work in many settings. These can include academia, government, healthcare settings, private corporations, and more.
Outlook: Employment in technical writing is growing faster than the national average. In the next ten years, the profession is expected to grow by 8%.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Education
At the U of M, technical writing and communication is offered as an undergraduate major through the College of Liberal Arts. This major includes courses in written communication, rhetorical theory, technology and culture, and more. Students choose to participate in one of the following four tracks:
- Information technology and design
- Biological and health sciences
- Legal discourse and public policy
- Environmental science
U of M Program