This nine month evening program consists of the following six courses, which are also the core of the undergraduate major in Technical Communication. Classes meet twice a week.

TC 421 (3cr), Intro to Technical Communication (formerly TC 400)

Principles and practices of writing in order to communicate scientific and technical information to a variety of readers. Participants learn to write for the expert, general scientific and technical reader, manager and general public.

TC 422 (3cr) Special Topics: Introduction to Style in Technical Communication (formerly TC 401)

This course covers:

• Grammatical structures and stylistic strategies within specific professional contexts
• Achieving clarity and conciseness through word choice and placement, using a variety of sentence structures for appropriate emphasis
• Handling details and establishing effective tone.

TC 424 (4 cr), The Computer in Technical Communication (formerly TC 310)

Technical communicators use various computer programs and technologies throughout their careers. This course introduces a variety of programs and technologies that are typically used in developing web sites, online and print graphics, online help, and complex documents. Functions of, and relationships among, computer applications, systems software, and computer hardware in technical publications and communication.

During this class, students learn:

• RoboHTML for creating HTML-based online Help
• Basic principles for creating print documents using FrameMaker
• Single-sourcing strategies using WebWorks Publisher
• .pdf creation using Adobe Acrobat

TC 423 (3cr), Intro to Technical Editing (formerly TC 402)

Editorial responsibilities and practice in the communication of scientific and technical information; the editor's role both as editor and as supervisor of publication groups.

TC 426 (3cr), Introduction to Software User Assistance (formerly TC 407)

Concepts and skills for preparing online help systems, performance-support systems, print manuals, and other forms of computer documentation. Analysis of users, their tasks, and the product's interface. Usability testing of documentation. Relationship between documentation process and product development cycles.

TC 427 (4 cr), Production Editing (formerly TC 415)

Covers both the editorial role in the preparation of text and visual materials for production, and editors' responsibilities and prerogatives as they relate to those of other professionals in the production phase. Areas of emphasis:

• Typesetting
• Layout
• Printing
• Binding
• Distribution

How to Apply:

UW Extension will begin accepting applications for the TWE Certificate program beginning June 1st. For more information on the application process, please visit the UW Extension website.