Technical Communication Proficiency Sequence: Certificate

Certificate of Completion

To earn a Technical Communication Proficiency Sequence certificate of completion, you would take four courses (12 units). You could finish part-time by attending two evenings a week for two consecutive semesters.

Required Courses (take 6 units)

• TPW 400: Fundamentals of Technical & Professional Writing (3 units)
• TPW 480: Writing Technical Documentation and Procedures (3 units)

Elective Courses (take 6 units)

• TPW 470 Writing Professional Promotions (3 units)
• TPW 490 Grantwriting (3 units)
• TPW 550 Professional Editing (3 units)
• TPW 555 Desktop Publishing for Professional Writers (3 units)
• TPW 565 Advanced Technical Writing Topics (3 units)
• TPW 585 Technical Writing Online (3 units)

The Curriculum

Your coursework would include both an introduction to fundamental forms, methods, standards, and issues for technical writers, plus dedicated practice in designing and producing technical publications. In addition, you could choose electives focused on editing, desktop publishing, online writing, promotional writing, or advanced topics. You would earn full college credit for all of these courses.

Please note: If you have an interest in pursuing writing as a primary career, after completing our Technical Communication Proficiency Sequence, you could apply the units you already had earned towards a more comprehensive academic certificate in Technical & Professional Writing.

Prerequisite: Before applying and beginning coursework, you must have completed ENG 214 (or equivalent) with a grade of C or better. If you are unsure if you have satisfied this requirement, please consult your advisor.

Program Cost

Application Fee: $50
Open University Course Fees: $295 per unit ($885 per course)