Technical Communication

About the technical communication major

Advances in technology increase the need to communicate complex technical information effectively to a variety of audiences and users. Technical communicators create a range of materials, from user manuals, training guides, and business reports to websites and online help pages.

The Bachelor of Science in Technical Communication provides theory, methods, and skills needed to design, develop, and edit scientific, technical, and business materials. This program offers applied industry projects and internships and includes optional tracks, such as international dimensions, usability, or health care (Purdue School of Engineering and Technology, 2019).

Skills and abilities this major develops: reading and writing skills, critical thinking and problem-solving skills, technical skills, knowledge of graphic design and publishing software, and detail orientation.

Engaged learning experiences

Regardless of your major or future career, engaged learning is vital to your present and future. It makes you more marketable for jobs and professional schools upon graduation, it enables you to build deeper connections with faculty and staff in your field of study, and it makes your learning personal by connecting your interests and values with the curriculum from your classes. Check out the three ideas below for places to get started, or learn more at IUPUI’s Institute for Engaged Learning website.

Student organizations

ET has many student organizations, which are a great way to build your skills, network, and grow as a professional.

Professional work experience

Grow your skills through internships, co-op, or part-time jobs.

Study abroad

ET has many program-specific study abroad opportunities—a great way to gain cultural competency and grow your skills.

Opportunities after graduation

Employment of technical writers is projected to grow 6% from 2021 to 2031, as fast as the average for all occupations. About 5,400 openings for technical writers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as retirement (Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2022).

According to the IUPUI First Destination Survey in 2021, the average starting salary reported for the School of Engineering and Technology graduates was $58,879, and the median salary was $60,000.

The national median annual salary for technical writers was $78,060 in 2021 (Occupational Outlook Handbook).

(This section is intended for informational purposes, not prediction of actual salary.)

Technical communication graduates often pursue ongoing education or graduate work in many areas, including:

Business (M.B.A.)
Health administration
Law
STEM disciplines

Quick facts

Sample coursework

Project management
Technical report writing
Technical and scientific editing
Visual technical communication
Website design
Written communication in science and industry

Possible careers

Information architect
Multimedia content developer
Technical editor
Technical trainer
Technical writer/communicator
User experience designer/practitioner
Web designer

Where could I work?

Avalon Group
Conduent
CSpring
Engaging Solutions
Experis
Xiber, LLC

Complementing interests

AArtistic

IInvestigative

CConventional

Get your interest code

Where to get more information

Purdue School of Engineering and Technology

(ET 331 or 317-278-1311)

Society for Technical Communication

User Experience Professional Association

Arts, Humanities, and Human Services Cluster

This major is part of the Arts, Humanities, and Human Services (AHHS) cluster. The AHHS cluster is the academic home of University College students pursuing majors in art and design, education, general studies, journalism, liberal arts, and social work. The AHHS cluster partners with students on their academic advising and career plans to guide them into their degree-granting schools.

Learn about the AHHS cluster

Learn about other clusters

Meet with an advisor or career consultant

Schedule an appointment