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{Home > Graduate > Technical Communication Certificate : Program Benefits }

Program Benefits

• Admission
• Degree Requirements
• Program Benefits
• Transferring Credits to the M.S.

Benefits for working professionals

Many people working as technical communicators did not start out with that career goal. But the Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that increasingly technical communicators require additional training in a specialized field. This type of certificate can serve technical communicators, perhaps like yourself, who may not have been trained in this field, but find yourself in a technical writing position. For you, the opportunity for post-baccalaureate education focused on communication principles and best practices can help you advance in your careers. If you are a career changer, this certificate program provides preparation for positions in the growing field of technical communication. Most courses are offered online or one night a week to accommodate workday schedules.

Benefits for U of M students

University students pursuing other degrees can also benefit from having additional certification in technical communication. For you, the opportunity to show that you are a good technical communicator can give you a competitive edge with potential employers. For example, the Bureau of Labor Statistics cites communication skills as a necessary qualification for people seeking positions as computer scientists and data base administrators, to name just two. This need for good communication and interpersonal skills is recognized across a wide range of careers. Our certificate program can help to prepare you for these careers, as well as give you opportunities to demonstrate those communication skills.

You will also benefit from the certificate course work in the following ways:

• Learn and strengthen your core competencies in technical communication, including information design, editing, and visual design
• Understand the history of technical communication as well as emerging trends in the field
• Explore different genres within the field of technical communication
• Apply knowledge of technical communication within specific workplace situations
• Collaborate with a community of learners and professionals in the field of technical communication.