Question 1

Is There a Growing Demand For Technical Writers?

Accepted Answer

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics,  the demand for technical writers is projected to grow 10 percent from  2014 to 2024. Employment growth in this field will exceed the national  average for other occupations due to the continued increase in  scientific and technical products.

Question 2

Who Hires Technical Writers?

Accepted Answer

There are many other job boards available as well where you can look.

Job Outlook - Employment of technical writers is projected to grow 12 percent from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations. About 5,500 openings for technical writers are projected each year, on average, over the decade.

Demand - As a "Demand Occupation" this means more training opportunities are needed to meet business and industry customer requirements.

Industries - Technical writers serve automotive, software, hardware, manufacturing, safety, municipal projects, entertainment, aviation, the mortgage industry, utilities, food, universities, research, chemical, non-profit, medical, to name a few.

Do a job search on LinkedIn, Indeed.com, and other similar employment websites.

Question 3

Would I Be Good Technical Writer? I Do Not Have a Background In Technology or Writing.

Accepted Answer

Most technical writers do not have a specific background in the profession. You will excel in this field if you posses the following qualities:

You’re a good problem solver.
You’re patient (e.g., when you run into technical problems, you don’t throw your mouse across the room).
You’re tech savvy.
You’re a gadget person.
You like interviewing and talking with people.
You like writing.
You like figuring out how things work.
You like layout, design, and visuals.

Question 4

How Competitive is The Technical Writing Field?

Accepted Answer

Technical writing is a fast-growing and competitive field.  You will want to find an entry level job in order to gain the  experience needed to command higher salaries.

Question 5

Are These Certificate Programs Accredited or Certified?

Accepted Answer

No, they are not. However, the colleges and universities issuing the certificate of completion are Accredited.

Question 6

What Software Do I Need For My Classes?

Accepted Answer

No particular software is required. Most assignments can be completed using MS-Word.

Question 7

What Does The Word Certificate Actually Mean?

Accepted Answer

There is no regional or nationally known certifying agency. However, because we partner with Accredited Colleges and Universities they can offer our students paper-based Certificate designations with your name, the name of the course of study, the college or university name and official signature. These are Industry-Based Certificates that are recognized for the value they hold in the workplace.

Question 8

How Many Hours a Week Should I Dedicate to my Studies?

Accepted Answer

We recommend you dedicate a minimum 6-8 hours per week.

Question 9

What Are Some of The Activities Technical Writers Engage In?

Accepted Answer

Technical writers do a variety of tasks, including some or all of the following:

Explore products and analyze requirements data enough to become an expert about the product.
Interview and meet with subject matter experts in regular meetings  and one-on-one situations to ask questions and learn more about  products.
Create instructions on how to use software applications and hardware products.
Create illustrations, diagrams, and other visuals that explain technical concepts.
Record video tutorials that show how to use technical products.
Relay user feedback to product teams on how to improve the products,  whether that feedback comes through usability testing, training, or  other user immersion.
Create elearning courses and simulations for users to learn products.
Create technology how-to articles for marketing efforts to increase awareness and adoption of technology products.

Question 10

What Do I Need To Get a Job In The Technical Writing Industry?

Accepted Answer

A certificate – employers will generally ask for one in technical  writing or technical communication – another term for technical writing,  so a certificate is highly recommended.

A portfolio -  Potential employers will ask to see one (this is common  practice).
A resume -  Any past experience is  relevant because it generally can be applied to a particular field.

These are the basics.

Question 11

If I Do Not Need a Certificate, Can I Enroll In a Single Course?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! Simply navigate to the Contact Us page and let us know which course you are interested in.

Question 12

What Happens if I need an Extension?

Accepted Answer

This Certificate Course must be completed within the specified time period noted at the time of enrollment. Extension fees are applicable beyond the end date.

Frequently asked questions