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2001 is arguably a long time ago. In the past 10 years or so, I haven't seen a job ad that doesn't list a degree as a requirement. Of course, I have to admit that my data may be biased. Having a degree, I may have simply ignored jobs that didn't require one.
In any case, while I like seeing a degree as a gating factor (because I have two), I would add that of the three best tech writers I've worked with, one had a degree in journalism, the other in history, and the third doesn't have a degree of any sort (thought in terms of only credit, she has completed enough university coursework to have earned one). While a good degree program can bring one a wealth of information, skills, and wisdom, a degree actually proves only one thing: one is competent at the social game called academia. More than anything else, that game requires fortitude, perseverance, adaptability, and respect for legitimate authority (albeit grudging respect in some cases). While a good tech writer will have these qualities, they are not exclusive to those that have earned a degree, and these qualities in themselves in no way guarantee that someone will be a good tech writer.
-----Original Message-----
From: techwr-l-bounces+lporrello=illumina -dot- com -at- lists -dot- techwr-l -dot- com [mailto:techwr-l-bounces+lporrello=illumina -dot- com -at- lists -dot- techwr-l -dot- com] On Behalf Of Dan Goldstein
Sent: Thursday, October 27, 2011 9:56 AM
To: techwr-l -at- lists -dot- techwr-l -dot- com
Subject: RE: STC certification: what's in it for tech writers?
"Vast majority?" When I came to the US as a fairly new technical writer
in 2001, I had a bunch of interviews, and no one even asked about my
lack of a degree.
This can't just be a geographical thing. I'm in the Metro DC area, which
if anything is more degree-conscious than other cities.
-----Original Message-----
From: Porrello, Leonard
Sent: Thursday, October 27, 2011 12:41 PM
To: 'Steven Jong'; Mark Baker; Gene Kim-Eng
Cc: TECHWR-L Digest
Subject: RE: STC certification: what's in it for tech writers?
... Having a degree is a gating factor for the vast majority of tech
writing jobs. Without a degree, you don't even get an interview...
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