BA with Concentration in Professional and Technical Writing
The Bay Area needs well-trained technical writers and editors. The high-tech companies of Silicon Valley require people who are able to write quality manuals, reports, and web updates; write clear business reports and promotional materials; communicate effectively both with consumers and within the company; and understand each step of the publication process.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that demand for technical writers will continue to increase for the foreseeable future, especially in regions of the country like ours. Download more information about the demand for technical writers. [pdf]
So what is Professional and Technical Writing (PTW)? Simply put, PTW is writing done in a workplace environment designed to persuade, inform, or instruct. While “professional” generally applies to business writing and “technical” generally applies to writing about technical topics, most professional writers would find the distinction superficial because they are frequently required to do both.
SJSU’s program (formerly called “Career Writing”) has been going strong for over 30 years and our graduates work at nearly every major tech firm in the Bay Area. We have a strong job-placement record and help coordinate paid internships with local employers during the summer and the school year.
To see descriptions of these courses, check the catalog for this concentration. See the 4-Year Roadmap for a sample advising map to complete the degree program in four years.
Check with the Professional and Technical Writing Major Advisor at least once each semester to track your progress.
Requirements and Forms
For a current list of department forms, please go to Advising Forms.
For students matriculating AFTER Fall 2017:
For students matriculating PRIOR to Fall 2017:
Advising
For non-major advising (less than 60 units earned):
- general education advising
- course schedule planning
- resources for academic success
- pre-graduation general education reviews
Contact the College of Humanities and the Arts (H&A) Student Success Center in Clark Hall 244, or call (408) 924-5095 for an appointment.
For major advising (60+ units earned):
- assistance with major form
- application for graduation
- assistance with substitution forms
- graduation worksheet and hold letter reviews
Explanations and Limitations
One course equals 3 or 4 units. English majors who complete the Humanities Honors Program will be credited for ENGL 125 (European Literature: Homer to Dante).
