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RE: What about a B.A./B.S. in Technical Communications?
Subject:RE: What about a B.A./B.S. in Technical Communications? From:"Kathleen" <keamac -at- cox -dot- net> To:"TECHWR-L" <techwr-l -at- lists -dot- techwr-l -dot- com> Date:Fri, 8 Jul 2005 10:39:42 -0700
Jennifer,
I think the BS might provide you better credentials for a wider range of
job openings, if it is technical and the program is good. Although
there's a huge range of topics/fields included in "technical writing,"
you're always going to have a better chance for employment if you have
some basic understanding of technical areas such as programming,
finance, web, networking, business, etc. So if you already have an
interest in or training in one of those areas, you might be ok doing a
BA; otherwise I'd look into the more technical degree.
But I also think it's important to think about the areas that you're
interested in or have strengths in, aside from writing. You'll be a much
stronger candidate if you have some knowledge of an area on your own,
and of course you'll find it more personally rewarding.
My .02
Kathleen
-----Original Message-----
>From David Neeley
Many employers expect a degree; many fewer seem to care much what it
is; even fewer seem to make a distinction between which letters are on
the diploma.
A possible exception might be an engineering or science degree.
Combining that with demonstrated writing proficiency could be a
distinct advantage over others applying for the same positions with
otherwise equivalent experience. However, these are rather obviously
unlikely to be done through distance education.
Most employers I have met are willing to make an exception for someone
without a degree but with a good portfolio and who can demonstrate
mastery of the needed skills.
Distance education is gaining better acceptance, it seems, so long as
the education is from a well-recognized institution and particularly
one that also has a residential program.
As for tech writing programs, I've heard some excellent
recommendations for the program at Oklahoma State, but I don't know if
they offer it through distance learning. Their program is through the
English department, and includes B.A. through Ph.D.
Good luck whichever course you decide upon!
David
On 7/8/05, Jennifer Williams <jennwilliams -at- swbell -dot- net> wrote:
> From my research, it looks like the B.S. is more
> technical and the B.A. is more theory-oriented. Which
> do employers prefer?
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