By Leanna Lane Ferguson
The world of communication is rapidly evolving, and so are we. At the University of North Texas, we're happy to announce an exciting change in our Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Science (BS) degrees within the Technical Communication department. We are adapting to the shifting communication landscape in the digital age, and as a result, we will now offer a BA in Content Strategy and a BS in Technical Communication. This change reflects our commitment to staying at the forefront of industry trends and providing our students with the most relevant, marketable skills for their future careers.
Why the Change?
In an age where content is everywhere, it's essential that our graduates are equipped with the skills that will make them most competitive in the job market. The rise of digital media and the proliferation of online content have led to a significant shift in how organizations communicate with their audiences. Content Strategy has become a critical component of this new landscape.
The new BA in Technical Communication/Content Strategy focuses on understanding, planning, creating, and managing content strategically, ensuring that it is effective and aligns with an organization's goals and values. This degree is dynamic and forward-thinking, and it equips students with a comprehensive set of skills necessary to navigate the increasingly complex and competitive world of content creation and management. Content is not just about writing words and crafting visuals; it's about creating experiences that resonate with audiences, drive engagement, and achieve an organization's objectives. In addition, the new BA degree does not have a foreign-language requirement, so students who pursue the major are no longer required to complete coursework in a foreign language.
The new BS in Technical Communication, on the other hand, will continue to provide a comprehensive education in the fundamental principles of communicating complex technical information. With its strong foundation and commitment to precision, this program equips students with the tools to excel in various industries where technical communication is not merely a valuable asset but an absolute necessity. Graduates of this program will excel in crafting clear, precise, and user-focused documentation, manuals, and reports, which are critical in various industries such as engineering, healthcare, and IT.
Meet the New Degrees
To fulfill the requirements of these degrees, students will take a diverse range of courses. Note that neither the BA nor the BS degree has a foreign-language requirement.
(*TECM 2700 is a prerequisite):
BA Technical Communication/Content Strategy
Foundations (18 hours)
- TECM 2700: Technical Writing
- TECM 3010: The Profession of Tech Comm
- *TECM 3550: Content Strategy
- *TECM 4010: Automation and AI
- *TECM 4180: Advanced Technical Writing
- *TECM 4190: Technical Editing
Content Strategy Core (18 hours)
- *TECM 3100: Visual Technical Communication
- *TECM 3500: Digital Media
- TECM 4100: Proposals
- TECM 4500: Content Analysis
- INFO 4306: Project Management for Information Systems OR LTEC 4060: Project Management and Applied Technology Performance Improvement
- MKTG 3651: Foundations of Marketing Practice for Non-Business Majors
Electives (6 hours)
- Six hours of advanced-level courses in TECM, a foreign language, or an approved area.
BS Technical Communication
Foundations (18 hours)
- TECM 2700: Technical Writing
- TECM 3010: The Profession of Tech Comm
- *TECM 3550: Content Strategy
- *TECM 4010: Automation and AI
- *TECM 4180: Advanced Technical Writing
- *TECM 4190: Technical Editing
Technical Communication Core (18 hours)
- TECM 3200: Information Design for Electronic Media
- TECM 4100: Proposals OR *TECM 4700: Writing in the Sciences
- *TECM 4200: Research Methods/Practitioner
- *TECM 4250: Technical Procedures and Manuals
- TECM 4300: Usability and UX
- TECM 4500: Content Analysis
Electives (3 hours)
- Three hours of an advanced TECM or an approved course
Practicum (3 hours)
- TECM 4920: Cooperative Education in Technical Communication OR TECM 4950: Senior Capstone
Additional Programs
In addition to our Bachelor of Arts in Technical Communication/Content Strategy and Bachelor of Science in Technical Communication, the University of North Texas offers a range of supplementary programs designed to enhance and diversify your educational experience. These programs are tailored to meet the evolving demands of the professional landscape and provide you with a well-rounded skill set to excel in various fields.
Minor in Content Strategy (18 hours)
This minor program complements your academic pursuits and allows you to better understand content strategy, a critical component in the modern communication landscape. It includes courses such as Technical Writing, The Profession of Tech Comm, Content Strategy, Content Analysis, Project Management for Information Systems, and Foundations of Marketing Practice for Non-Business Majors. Completing this minor will enable you to incorporate content strategy principles into your chosen field, enhancing your career prospects and versatility.
- TECM 2700: Technical Writing
- TECM 3010: The Profession of Tech Comm
- *TECM 3550: Content Strategy
- TECM 4500: Content Analysis
- INFO 4306: Project Management for Information Systems OR LTEC 4060: Project Management and Applied Technology Performance Improvement
- MKTG 3651: Foundations of Marketing Practice for Non-Business Majors
Certificate in Artificial Intelligence in Professional Communication (12 hours)
In today's fast-paced digital world, knowledge of artificial intelligence and automation is essential. This certificate program specializes in AI in professional settings, visual technical communication, AI and automation, and content analysis. These skills are highly relevant in an increasingly automated world, opening doors to various career opportunities where AI intersects with professional communication. Completing this certificate will enhance your proficiency in cutting-edge technologies and their application in communication contexts.
- TECM 1600: AI in Professional Settings
- *TECM 3100: Visual Technical Communication
- TECM 4010: AI and Automation
- TECM 4500: Content Analysis
Certificate in Writing in the Sciences (15 hours)
For those interested in the intersection of communication and the sciences, this certificate program is a valuable addition to your academic portfolio. It encompasses courses such as Introduction to Professional, Science, and Technical Writing or Ethics in Science (as the introductory course), Technical Writing, Advanced Technical Communication, Technical Manual and Procedures, and Writing in the Sciences. With this certificate, you'll enhance your scientific writing skills and become proficient in conveying complex scientific information to a wide range of audiences. It's a valuable credential for those seeking careers in scientific research, healthcare, or any field that demands clarity and precision in scientific communication.
- TECM 1700: Introduction to Professional, Science, and Technical Writing OR PHIL 2600: Ethics in Science
- TECM 2700: Technical Writing
- TECM 4180: Advanced Technical Communication
- TECM 4250: Technical Manual and Procedures
- TECM 4700: Writing in the Sciences
Choose Your Path
Our commitment to adapting to the ever-evolving world of communication and education is reflected in our updated programs at the University of North Texas. The BA in Technical Communication/Content Strategy and BS in Technical Communication provides you with the essential skills for the digital age, emphasizing the power of compelling content and precise technical communication. Moreover, our supplementary programs, including a minor in Content Strategy and certificates in Artificial Intelligence and Writing in the Sciences, offer a well-rounded and adaptable skillset. These programs equip you with the knowledge and expertise to thrive in today's competitive job market, bridging the gap between education and career success.
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