Bachelor of Arts [B.A] [Technical and Professional Writing] From San Francisco State University

Technical and professional writers work in almost every field of industry and public life, including high-technology industries, business, government, and research and non-profit organizations. These career writers not only write and edit many types of documents in different media, but also sometimes design publications, manage and evaluate documentation and communication projects, and oversee development, production, and distribution processes.

To be best prepared for success in such work, students will need to start with strong writing skills then learn how to adapt them for the workplace and for changing technology and employment needs. Students also will need an intellectual framework for continuing professional growth and responsibility throughout their careers, including a solid grounding in humanistic studies, with an emphasis on analytical and ethical practices relevant for the workplace.

TPW students can combine TPW courses—which expose them to current workplace forms, methods, standards, and issues—with interdisciplinary electives that further develop related communications skills and attitudes. Students also can target a potential employment interest: Majors choose a specialized concentration (the subject matter focus); minors and certificate students can use TPW studies to complement their education and experience in other fields.

After completing the TPW program, students can begin their writing careers with important accomplishments and advantages: an academic degree or certificate in the field, improved and focused skills, an understanding of professional expectations and best practices for writers, and a portfolio of relevant writing samples.

Career Outlook

Depending on students' choices of subject matter focus and/or skills electives, students would be prepared for entry-level jobs as writers, editors, desktop or multimedia publishers, information developers and designers, and/or communications managers producing and overseeing technical documentation, content management systems, training or support materials, reports or proposals, and promotions or publicity.