Because there is no single accepted certification program or organization, the process for obtaining a technical writer certificate can vary from person to person. Technical writing courses are available at a variety of colleges and universities around the world, and they can be used to earn a technical writer certificate. Some non-profits will also offer courses that will result in a certificate at the end. It is critical to conduct preliminary research to determine what will be most beneficial to you and to ensure that the certificate you earn will be respected in the job market.
In some cases, you may be able to earn a technical writer certificate by taking just one technical writing course. More often than not, it will necessitate a series of technical writing courses at a college or university, either as part of a degree program or as an afterthought. A person pursuing a degree in English or business, for example, might be required to take a series of technical writing classes as part of his or her coursework; the college may specify the specific required courses in advance. The student may receive a degree as well as a technical writer certificate upon completion.
There are a number of technical schools and two-year colleges that offer associate’s degrees in technical writing for those who do not want to pursue a four-year degree. The courses will most likely be similar, but they will be taken independently rather than as part of a degree program. Business writing, web writing, and basic editing and publishing information are typically covered in technical writing courses. Courses in software or web site design may be available in more technologically oriented programs. Whatever method you use to take technical writing classes, make sure that you will receive a technical writer certificate at the end.
There are also some courses and workshops that teach technical writing in a broad sense and typically include a certificate. It’s critical to ensure that these classes are both useful and worthwhile of your time and money. Though a six-week course or even a simple one-day workshop in technical writing may be appealing, it could be a waste of time or money if potential employers do not recognize it as a legitimate course. Professional associations in the field may sponsor some similar programs, which can be a sign of greater credibility.