The Bay Area needs well-trained technical writers and editors. The high-technology businesses of the Santa Clara Valley require people who are able to write quality manuals, reports, and documents; write clear business reports; communicate clearly both with consumers and within the company; understand the publication process; and write promotional materials.

The certificate can also be obtained as part of a stand-alone 18-unit program for non-matriculated students.

Similar to the Concentration in Career Writing, students enroll in English 129, in which they receive hands-on experience in planning and writing two publications: The English Department Newsletter and The Writing Life.

The English Department offers students two ways in which to complete technical writing studies at the undergraduate level:

• As a minor, in conjunction with any Major Degree Program
• In the Career Writing Concentration of the English Major

These courses concentrate on writing original compositions, using as models documents from the technical community that surrounds SJSU. Writing assignments will include abstracts, proposals, instructions, procedural descriptions, formal reports, and a variety of business communications. Graphics, interviewing techniques, document review, and the special requirements of technical writing will be additional topics.

See the Career Writing Program Coordinator for information on internships.

Prerequisites for the Minor:

English 1A and 1B (or equivalent courses)

Requirements for the Minor

Core Courses

Additional Requirements

Total Units: