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Become a technical communicator

Introducing the Technical Communication online course of the Munster Technological University (MTU) in Cork, Ireland.

Text by Farshad Ghassemi Toosi

Inhaltsübersicht

Across industries, the need to effectively communicate technical information to specific audiences is paramount. Information developers play a crucial role in rendering scientific and technical data comprehensible and user-friendly. They ascertain the structure and delivery of information, thereby furthering the business objectives of their organizations.

Information developers need to be versatile, with knowledge in both communication and technology, alongside expertise in their specific domains. There are a wide array of roles, including technical communicators, technical editors, information architects, content strategists, instructional designers, technical illustrators, localization specialists, user experience architects, visual designers, web designers and developers, trainers and e-learning developers, and project managers, among others.

Information developers engage in a spectrum of activities ranging from documenting standard operating procedures (SOPs) to crafting information for Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology. They serve as intermediaries between industries and end users.

It is essential for information developers to grasp concepts such as programming, AI, machine learning, Natural Language Processing (NLP), application programming interfaces (APIs), cybersecurity, and localization engines. Information development ensures that designs, products, systems, and methodologies are comprehensively documented and communicated to their intended audiences, thus optimizing the business value for the organization.

Studying technical communication

The Munster Technological University (MTU) Cork Campus offers a Level 9 program in Technical Communication.

By combining technical communication with state-of-the-art technological skills, prospective students gain the knowledge and capability to analyze, generate, and oversee information for contemporary users.

The MSc in Technical Communication is a 90-credit master's degree program delivered online through platforms such as Zoom and Canvas. It comprises 60 credits of taught modules and a 30-credit project. This two-year (four semesters), part-time program is given during evenings. Upon successful completion, students will be awarded an MSc in Technical Communication. The 30-credit project provides students with the opportunity to explore related topics and apply their acquired knowledge and skills to real-world scenarios.

The program is designed to introduce learners to current techniques and technologies, such as XML and DITA for technical communication, information experience design, and techniques used in writing for industry. It also includes modules on research practice and ethics to raise learners’ awareness of ethical aspects of writing. A distinguishing aspect of this program is the recent introduction of elective modules, which familiarize learners with hot topics such as machine learning and AI, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and computational biology.

Upon successful graduation, learners are equipped with the necessary skills to work in various industrial sectors in the field of information creation.

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Entry for this program closes in September of each year. Candidates are required to apply well in advance through our online portal at www.mtu.ie/courses/crkindd9/#modules.

For questions and queries, please contact farshad.toosi(at)mtu.ie.