Master of Science in Technical and Professional Communication

The MSTPC is designed as a comprehensive, theory- and practice-oriented program of graduate study that prepares students for leadership, management, and consulting roles in the fields of technical and professional communication. The MSTPC also enables students to pursue doctoral studies or research in academic, corporate, or governmental environments.

This degree requires 30 credit hours, 12 of which can be earned from elective and special topics courses.  Six practicum options are also available, and students are able to earn up to 6 credit hours for practicum work.

Depending on the emphasis of their course of study and professional interests, MSTPC students will be able to acquire skills and expertise to:

• Design , produce, and evaluate the various types of technical and professional communication required by diverse audiences
• Use verbal, visual, analytical, and computer skills to create and enhance communication in professional environments
• Apply major rhetorical theories of technical and professional discourse to achieve specific communication objectives
• Apply emerging electronic technologies and other media to the creation of various publications and presentations
• Gain insight into the current research methodologies applicable to the fields of technical and professional communication
• Supervise publications, information design, and information management functions in organizations
• Develop presentation techniques that focus on the expectations of different audiences