Specialized Programs of Study
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Substitutions, Waivers and Transfer Credit
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Jim Connor
Director
Engineering and Technology
Technical Communication
EDP 302356
Rapidly expanding software, hardware, consumer electronics, biopharmaceutical and financial services industries have increased the demand for technical communicators and editors in the San Francisco Bay Area and beyond. Technical communicators play a vital role in bridging the gap between subject matter experts (such as scientists and engineers) and those who must understand how to implement their ideas. The Professional Sequence in Technical Communication offers the skills to translate complex concepts and gain a competitive edge in the field. Join our email list to stay informed about this certificate.
Courses
The table contains the required courses for the Professional Sequence in Technical Communication, as well as the terms they are typically available for enrollment.
3 Required Courses, 1–2 Electives, 8 Semester Units (120 Hours of Instruction)
| Required Courses | Course Number | Units/ CEU | Classroom | ON line |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Technical Communication I or Technical Writing |
X465 |
2 | Fall Spring |
|
X412 |
2 | Fall Spring Summer |
||
| Technical Communication II | X466 | 2 | Spring | Fall Spring Summer |
| Technical Editing | X437 | 2 | Summer |
| Electives | Course Number | Units/ CEU | Classroom | Online |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Developing Online Help | X448 | 2 | Summer | |
| Document Design Using FrameMaker | X443 | 2 | Fall | |
| Principles of Information Architecture | X461 | 2 | Summer | |
| Managing Technical Documentation Projects | X422 | 1 | Fall | |
| Visual Design for Technical Communication (offered future term) | X467 | 2 |
Course availability is subject to change. Courses offered in both online and classroom environments are interchangeable, and you may choose either format.
We recommend that you begin with Technical Communication I X465.
The online course Technical Writing X412 can be substituted for Technical Communication I X465, and the online course Technical Communication II X466 can be substituted for its classroom version (also X466). No other substitutions or waivers are allowed in this program.
To enroll, click on a course title above and choose a section.
You may enroll in individual courses without registering for the Professional Sequence in Technical Communication.
Who Will Benefit
Whether you are new to the industry; changing careers; seeking a credential to demonstrate knowledge, training and commitment; or a seasoned technical communicator wishing to continue your professional development, the program is tailored to meet your needs. With the program, you can harness the power to write effectively using excellent grammar, conduct good research, hone reading and listening skills, interview subject matter experts while having limited knowledge of the subject, master software publishing tools and manage projects.
Prerequisites for Admission
There are no prerequisites for the Professional Sequence in Technical Communication.
Curriculum Requirements
The curriculum consists of 3 required courses and 1–2 electives for a total of 8 semester units (120 hours of instruction). Candidates must pay a nonrefundable program registration fee.
All coursework must be completed within three years of registering for the program. However, requirements may be updated based on new developments in the field of study; we recommend completing the curriculum in a timely fashion. For more information, please see the completion requirements and the substitutions, waivers and transfer credit policies.
How to Register for This Specialized Program of Study
By registering, you declare your intention to complete the curriculum. To register for the Professional Sequence in Technical Communication, submit the online registration form with your credit card information or complete the mail-in registration form. The registration fee is nonrefundable.
You should register for the program after you complete your first course in the curriculum.
Contact Information
Please refer to our Frequently Asked Questions. To contact the department office, email course@unex.berkeley.edu or call (510) 642-4151.
