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Technical Communication

The Technical Communication program focuses on how people communicate in professional settings, emphasizing the creation of clear, concise, and user-friendly content to convey technical or complex information. Students are trained to compose and edit written, visual, and multimodal content for diverse audiences, grounded in the humanistic, rhetorical, and ethical foundations of the field. The curriculum ensures students can effectively communicate ideas and information, producing documents that are accurate, thorough, and easy for the audience to use.

Careers in Technical Communication

Technical communicators work in a broad range of industries from agriculture to medicine to information technology and more.
  • Technical Communicator
  • Technical Editor
  • Content Writer
  • User Experience Designer
  • Documentation Manager
  • Information Designer

Potential Salary

Median Salary $80,050

The median annual wage for Technical Writers in May 2023 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Technical Communication Degrees at MSU

Technical Communication, Bachelor of Science

The Bachelor of Science in Technical Communication allows students to use their creativity to make written, visual, and digital content that helps people understand information and make decisions. Courses cover topics like editing, documentation, health writing, and usability. Technical communicators work in many industries such as engineering, agriculture, health, and IT.  

Technical Communication, Minor

The Technical Communication Minor is a perfect complement to many disciplines that involve writing in a business, social scientific, scientific or technical setting. Courses cover topics like editing, documentation, health writing, and usability. 

Technical Communication, Master of Science

The Master of Science in Technical Communication prepares students to be professional information developers, technical or professional writers, and editors who are skilled at using the written and spoken word, along with visuals, to effectively inform and instruct a wide range of audiences. Coursework develops student skills in audience analysis, content strategy, visual communication, and user experience. 

Technical Communication, Graduate Certificate

The Graduate Certificate in Technical Communication prepares participants for careers in technical communication, emphasizing current industry practice in the research, writing, editing, and design of  technical documents. Coursework develops student skills in audience analysis, content strategy, visual communication, and user experience.

Learn More

Technical Communication Advisory Board

One of the ways the Technical Communication program stays connected with the profession is through our Advisory Board. Meet our members!

Technical Communication Professional Resources

Explore valuable resources for technical communication students, including top professional organizations, industry blogs, and leading publications.

Related Programs

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The Creative Writing program allows students to develop their storytelling skills, enhance their imagination, and express their unique voice while exploring various genres and receiving constructive feedback.

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The Communication and Media program equips students with critical thinking, digital literacy, and global awareness, preparing them to be ethical and socially responsible communicators, advocates, and storytellers in a dynamic world.

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Graphic Design, Bachelor of Fine Arts

The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Art with an emphasis in graphic design is devoted to the development of concepts, knowledge, and skills needed for a career in graphic design and related fields. This degree focuses on the conceptual, visual, and technical skills needed to enter the design profession with confidence.

Department of Technical Communication

College of

Humanities and Social Sciences

The College of Humanities and Social Sciences is an inclusive community of diverse learners seeking to examine, engage with and transform the social world while nurturing creativity and innovation. Our programs build a foundation of knowledge that adapts to a constantly changing society.

Learn More About the College of Humanities and Social Sciences