Technical Writing (English, B.A.)
The Technical Writing Concentration in English is designed to prepare a student for a wide range of workplace opportunities. Through a focus on the fundamentals of communicating through writing and visuals, students in the Technical Writing Concentration are exposed to writing a wide range of document types for various audiences in a variety of contexts. Included in many courses are client- and case-based writing projects that provide real-world or real-world equivalent experience.
Technical Writing (English, B.A.)
Description
What is Technical Writing at ODU like?
The Technical Writing Concentration in English is designed to prepare a student for a wide range of workplace opportunities. Through a focus on the fundamentals of communicating through writing and visuals, students in the Technical Writing Concentration are exposed to writing a wide range of document types for various audiences in a variety of contexts. Included in many courses are client- and case-based writing projects that provide real-world or real-world equivalent experience.
Program Highlights
What makes Technical Writing at ODU unique?
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Students are taught how to analyze new writing and dynamic writing situations and learn how to best respond to them.
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Students are asked to navigate the interests of multiple audiences to provide useful and ethical documents to further the needs of stakeholders.
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Students learn to communicate with a variety of technologies in use in today’s workplaces.
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Students learn how to design readable and professional looking documents for use in a wide range of contexts.
Careers
What are some careers in this field?
Check out these ideas from ODU Career Development Services and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is the midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.
Technical Writers
$74,440
MEDIAN SALARY
Write technical materials, such as equipment manuals, appendices, or operating and maintenance instructions. May assist in layout work.
Web Developers
$74,110
MEDIAN SALARY
Design, create, and modify Web sites. Analyze user needs to implement Web site content, graphics, performance, and capacity. May integrate Web sites with other computer applications. May convert written, graphic, audio, and video components to compatible Web formats by using software designed to facilitate the creation of Web and multimedia content.
Editors
$68,230
MEDIAN SALARY
Plan, coordinate, or edit content of material for publication. May review proposals and drafts for possible publication. Includes technical editors.
Copy Writers
$72,120
MEDIAN SALARY
Write advertising copy for use by publication or broadcast media to promote sale of goods and services.
Courses
What are some courses offered in Technical Writing at ODU?
ENGL 334W:
Technical Writing
This course provides the student with a working knowledge of various types of technical communication, including the writing of proposals, instructions, and reports for both the specialist and the nonspecialist. This is a writing intensive course. Prerequisites: A grade of C or better in ENGL 110C and ENGL 211C or ENGL 221C or ENGL 231C.
ENGL 435W:
Management Writing
This course focuses on writing as a means of making and presenting management decisions. This is a writing intensive course. Prerequisites: A grade of C or better in ENGL 211C or ENGL 221C or ENGL 231C, and six semester hours in English, to include ENGL 334W or permission of the instructor.
ENGL 439:
Writing in Digital Spaces
This course offers composition practice in critical contemporary digital environments. Readings and discussions will provide the history of and context for these digital spaces. Students should expect to participate in, develop, and engage in critical discussions about a range of digital spaces, including websites, wikis, blogs, and various interactive media. Prerequisites: ENGL 307T or equivalent or permission of instructor.
Requirements
What are the requirements to apply for Technical Writing at ODU?
Students entering the Bachelor of Arts program in Technical Writing should meet the minimum university admission requirements (Undergraduate Admission)
Cost
Tuition and Fees
Estimated rates for the 2022-23 academic year. Rates are subject to change. Anyone that is not a current Virginia resident will be charged non-resident rates. That includes international students.
Virginia Resident
Per Credit:
$ 374
Non-Resident
Per Credit:
$ 1,039
Active Duty Military Rate
Per Credit:
$ 250
Technology Delivered Courses Outside Virginia and/or the United States
Per Credit:
$ 407
Ways to Save
Here are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending ODU. For more information visit University Student Financial aid
Next Steps
I like this program. What are the next steps?
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Contact
Need help applying?
Meet Your Enrollment Team
Our enrollment coordinators are ready to help you through the admissions process.
Chief Departmental Advisor
Name:
Heather Weddington
Location:
5006 BATTEN ARTS & LETTERS, NORFOLK, VA, 23529
Email:
Office:
757-683-4036
Undergraduate Admissions
Location:
1004 Rollins Hall, Norfolk, VA 23529
Phone Office:
757-683-3685
Fax:
757-683-3255
Email:
admissions@odu.edu
International Admissions
Location:
2101 Dragas Hall, Norfolk, VA 23529
Phone Office:
757-683-3701
Fax:
757-683-3651
Email:
intladm@odu.edu
Transfer
I like this program and want to transfer. What are my next steps?
At ODU, we understand that as a transfer student you have unique needs that require a wide array of campus resources. The Center for Advising Administration and Academic Partnerships aims to create a transfer inclusive culture that supports the successful transition, engagement, and academic achievement of transfer students. The services and programs offered to you as a Monarch are endless so take advantage of every opportunity. Even before you set foot on campus, we encourage you to Explore, Experience, and Engage! Visit our Transfer Students page for more information.
Additional Programs
Are there other programs at ODU I may be interested in?
With over 120 undergraduate programs, 130 graduate programs at the master's, education specialist and doctoral levels plus a wealth of certificate and professional development programs, Old Dominion University has the program for you. Visit our academic program listing page to see other programs ODU has to offer.
How would you like to complete your program?
Enhance your college career by gaining relevant experience with the skills and knowledge needed for your future career. Discover our experiential learning opportunities.
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