About this Program
Technical communication today goes beyond writing traditional software documentation to include diverse web content, white papers and scientific publications, plus elements related to design and production. Technical writers are expected to bring both broad and deep knowledge, and skilled professionals are in high demand.
In this three-course certificate program, we’ll cover all the fundamental concepts and practical applications of technical writing. You’ll learn about the styles, formats and requirements for different kinds of technical communication. Become a well-trained, confident technical writer who can hit the ground running in a variety of organizational roles.
▸ Related Article: How to Become a Technical Writer
Professionals with some writing background who want to develop their technical writing abilities.
Those with less writing experience might consider the Business Writing: Reports, Proposals & Documents course. For experienced writers who want to specialize, we offer the Specialization in Medical Writing and the Specialization in API Documentation . See all related programs .
See Requirements
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
To apply, you must:
Have one of the following:
A bachelor's degree in any subject, plus two years of work experience in any field
An associate degree in any subject, plus four years of work experience in any field
Be familiar with authoring tools such as Microsoft Word, including the ability to create a document, add comments, track changes, and format styles and templates
ALSO RECOMMENDED
Be a strong writer with solid grammar and English language skills, as demonstrated by your application letter
Possess critical reading skills and be able to read and interpret a variety of documents and resources
Time Commitment
Including time in class, you should expect to spend about seven to nine hours each week on coursework.
English Proficiency
If English is not your native language, you should have at least intermediate English skills to enroll. To see if you qualify, make sure you are at the B2 level on the CEFR self-assessment grid . To learn more, see English Language Proficiency Requirements – Noncredit Programs .
International Students
Because this offering is 100% online, no visa is required and international students are welcome to apply. For more information, see Admission Requirements for International Students .
TECHNOLOGY REQUIREMENTS
Classroom students will need:
Wi-Fi-equipped laptop to bring to class (Mac or PC)
Microsoft Office 365 (available to students free of charge though the UW Microsoft Student Advantage program)
Online students will need:
Access to a computer with a recent operating system and web browser
Microsoft Office 365 (available to students free of charge though the UW Microsoft Student Advantage program)
High-speed internet connection
Headset and webcam (recommended)
Earning the Certificate
You earn a certificate of completion by successfully completing all required courses. For more information, see Earning the Certificate .
Video Overview
Hear from Carl Chatfield, instructor in the Professional Technical Writing certificate program. Find out how the program helps to set up graduates for a career in the field.
Duration: 02:35
Play
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
The principles of visual and user-centered design, software user assistance, editing conventions, usability testing, layout concepts and publication formats
The role of style and structure in technical communication
Design techniques for different document types
How to use industry-standard software tools and systems
GET HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE
Produce a document development plan and a variety of work samples for your portfolio.
EARN DIGITAL BADGES
You can earn a digital achievement badge for successfully completing this certificate program, as well as a separate badge for each course. These badges can be shared on LinkedIn and other social media sites. Learn more about digital badges .
APPLY FOR A SCHOLARSHIP
You may be eligible to apply for a UW Certificate Scholarship or Rotary Scholarship to cover most of the costs of this program. Scholarships are awarded based on financial need and the potential of the program to positively impact your career. For more information, see the Scholarships page.
Career Stats
19%
Projected job growth for technical writers in Washington state (2020–2030)
$80,111
Average salary for technical writers in Washington state
OUR ENROLLMENT COACHES ARE HERE TO HELP
Connect with an enrollment coach to learn more about this offering. Or if you need help finding the right certificate, specialization or course for you, reach out to explore your options .