Certified Technical Writer

Become a Technical Writer

Are you a strong writer with an interest in technical subjects? Technical writers help individuals, organizations and institutions with technical missions communicate their messages effectively and clearly. In this 100% online course you will learn how to create and structure technical articles and documents for technology, science, and engineering-oriented audiences. Successful completion of the course includes a lesson on preparing for the Certified Professional Technical Communicator (CPTC) exam offered by the Society for Technical Communication (STC).

Fingers typing.

Job Outlook for Certified Technical Writers

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) expects a 12% growth in the demand for technical writers between now and 2030. This is faster than average growth for all jobs. The BLS expects strong growth in scientific and technical products to drive demand for writers who can communicate sophisticated information clearly to users.

According to PayScale.com, technical writers earn $61,478 per year in the US, on average. Salaries for early-career technical writers’ range between $42-79,000 with an average of $57,099 per year during the first four years of their careers.

Course Objectives

What you will learn

  • Writing to meet the needs of your audience, including writing with clarity and focus
  • The differences between technical writing and other types of writing
  • Ethical issues in technical writing
  • Advanced grammar rules and effective research methods
  • Writing effectively for websites and social media
  • Developing strategies to prepare for the Certified Professional Technical Communicator exam

How you will benefit

  • Obtain a professional writing portfolio to showcase your work to current and potential employers
  • Be prepared for technical writing jobs in a variety of industries like software companies, nonprofit organizations, marketing agencies, and more
  • Receive a certificate of completion and prepare to sit for the CPTC exam

Prerequisites and Requirements

There are no prerequisites to complete this course. This course is designed to prepare you for a career as a technical writer. You do not need any prior experience or training in this field.

This course can be taken on either a PC or Mac.

Registration and Enrollment

This is a self-paced course that can be completed 100% online. Open enrollment means you can start anytime.

Certified Technical Writer FAQs

Expand FAQ List

  • According to the Society for Technical Communication, technical writers use text to explain detailed information about technical or specialized topics such as computer programs, medical terminology, or government regulations. They write in a clear, direct, and neutral style that makes complex or technical information accessible to a specific audience.

  • Technical writers often work with some of the most prestigious and best-known organizations and brands in the world. Certifications like the CPTC signal to these top-tier employers and clients that a technical writer has made a significant commitment to their own development and professionalism. Certification differentiates a prospective employee or freelancer during the hiring process and indicates a professional who will continue to develop their skills over the long term.

  • Since technical writers can work online using technology tools and research, many develop robust freelance practices or work from home as employees. ZipRecruiter.com reports that technical writers commonly earn between $45-108,000 per year working remotely.

    1. Introduction to Technical Communication
    2. Your Role as a Technical Writer
    3. Common Types of Technical Writing
    4. The Seven Principles of Good Writing
    5. Writing as a Process
    6. Research
    7. Organization
    8. Rough Draft
    9. Revising and Editing
    10. Writing for the Web and Social Media
    11. Certification
    12. How to Find a Job in Technical Writing (Optional Lesson)
    13. Final Exam
    14. Externship (Optional)
      Disclaimer: To qualify for the externship applications process, students must successfully complete the online course content and have account balances up to date (at a minimum). Going through the externship application process does not guarantee an externship. COVID may be affecting the externship process or site availability in your area. Students can begin researching the steps of the application process 2 weeks prior to completing courses.

Ready To Start?

This is a self-paced course that can be completed 100% online. Open enrollment means you can start anytime.