M.S. in Data Science
The M.S. in Data Science program at the University of Arizona is an interdisciplinary p...
B.A. in Professional and Technical Writing
Tucson, Arizona
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The B.A. in Professional and Technical Writing program at the University of Arizona is designed to cultivate skilled communicators equipped for diverse professional environments. This interdisciplinary program goes beyond traditional writing studies, offering a holistic approach that integrates rhetoric, technology, and design. Students engage in coursework that hones their ability to create clear, concise, and audience-focused communication across various media. The program emphasizes real-world applications, preparing students for careers in fields such as business, technology, healthcare, and non-profit organizations. Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and hands-on experiences, graduates emerge as versatile writers capable of producing effective communication strategies for a globalized and technologically advanced workplace.
Curriculum:
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Multifaceted Writing Skills: The program focuses on developing multifaceted writing skills, encompassing technical documentation, user manuals, proposals, and digital content. Students gain proficiency in adapting their writing style to different genres and purposes within professional and technical contexts.
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Integration of Technology: A hallmark of the program is its integration of technology into the writing process. Students explore the use of digital tools and platforms for creating, editing, and publishing technical content, aligning their skills with industry standards and advancements.
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Project-Based Learning: The curriculum emphasizes project-based learning, providing students with opportunities to work on real-world writing projects. This hands-on approach allows them to apply theoretical concepts to practical scenarios, preparing them for the demands of the professional writing landscape.
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Audience-Centered Communication: The importance of audience-centered communication is a key focus. Students learn to analyze and understand their target audience, tailoring their writing to effectively communicate complex information to diverse stakeholders, including non-expert audiences.
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Collaborative and Cross-Disciplinary Approach: Recognizing the collaborative nature of professional writing, the program encourages a cross-disciplinary approach. Students may collaborate with professionals from other fields, gaining insights into industries such as science, engineering, healthcare, and business.
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Technical Editing and Document Design: The curriculum includes in-depth training in technical editing and document design. Students learn the principles of document layout, visual design, and editing techniques, ensuring their written materials are not only informative but also visually engaging and accessible.
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Internship Opportunities: The program provides internship opportunities, allowing students to gain real-world experience in professional and technical writing settings. Internships provide valuable insights into industry expectations, build professional networks, and enhance students' resumes.
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Global Communication Competence: With an emphasis on global communication, students develop the skills needed to communicate effectively in diverse cultural and international contexts. This global perspective prepares graduates for careers in the interconnected and multicultural world of professional writing.
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Professional Development Workshops: The program offers professional development workshops, covering topics such as resume building, portfolio creation, and job search strategies. These workshops empower students to showcase their skills and successfully enter the workforce upon graduation.
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Preparation for Advanced Studies: For students interested in pursuing advanced studies, the program provides a solid foundation for graduate studies in fields such as technical communication, rhetoric, or related disciplines.
Location
Tucson, Arizona
Score
IELTS: 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 39958
Entry Requirements for International Students
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Academic Requirements: Prospective undergraduate students are required to demonstrate a strong academic background. The University of Arizona looks for a percentage ranging from 60% to 70% in the students' previous academic records.
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English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System): A minimum overall score of 6.5 is required, with no individual band score falling below 6.
- TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Applicants should achieve a minimum overall score of 79 on the TOEFL iBT (Internet-based Test).
- PTE (Pearson Test of English): The university requires a minimum overall score of 53 in the PTE Academic.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Prospective students must attain a minimum overall score of 105 in the Duolingo English Test.
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System): A minimum overall score of 6.5 is required, with no individual band score falling below 6.
The University of Arizona offers a range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students to support their academic journey. These scholarships are designed to recognize and reward outstanding academic achievements, leadership potential, and diverse backgrounds.
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Global Wildcat Scholarship: The Global Wildcat Scholarship is a merit-based scholarship available to incoming international undergraduate students. It provides partial tuition waivers for up to four years of study. Selection is based on academic excellence, leadership qualities, and contributions to the community.
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International Tuition Awards: The International Tuition Awards are merit-based scholarships offered to international undergraduate and graduate students. These awards provide partial tuition waivers and are renewable for multiple years. Eligibility is based on academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and potential to contribute to the university community.
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International Student Tuition Discount: The University of Arizona offers a tuition discount to international students from select countries. The discount reduces the out-of-state tuition rate to a more affordable level, making it more accessible for international students to pursue their education at the university.
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Graduate College Fellowships: The Graduate College at the University of Arizona offers several fellowship programs for international graduate students. These fellowships provide financial support for tuition and living expenses. The eligibility criteria and award amounts vary depending on the specific fellowship program.
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College-Specific Scholarships: Various colleges and departments within the University of Arizona offer scholarships specifically tailored to international students in their respective fields of study. These scholarships may be based on academic achievement, research interests, or professional goals. Students can inquire with their specific college or department for available scholarship opportunities.
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External Scholarships: The University of Arizona encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities. There are numerous scholarships provided by organizations, governments, and foundations that international students can apply for. The university's scholarship office can provide guidance and resources to help students identify and apply for external scholarships.
It is important for international students to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may vary.
Graduates holding a B.A. in Professional and Technical Writing from the University of Arizona are well-equipped for a range of dynamic and in-demand careers that require strong communication skills. The program's comprehensive curriculum, blending theoretical knowledge with hands-on experiences, positions graduates to excel in various industries where effective written communication is a critical component. The B.A. in Professional and Technical Writing from the University of Arizona opens up a diverse array of career opportunities for graduates in fields where effective written communication is paramount. The program's emphasis on practical skills, industry-relevant knowledge, and real-world applications positions graduates for success in the dynamic and evolving landscape of professional and technical writing.
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Technical Writer/Communications Specialist: Graduates can pursue roles as technical writers or communications specialists, creating clear and concise documentation, manuals, and guides for complex technical processes or products. They may work in industries such as technology, engineering, healthcare, and manufacturing.
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Content Developer/Strategist: With a focus on creating compelling and engaging content, graduates may choose to become content developers or strategists. They can work for digital marketing agencies, creating content for websites, blogs, and social media platforms to enhance brand visibility and engagement.
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Proposal Writer: In sectors such as government contracting, nonprofit organizations, or business development, graduates can specialize as proposal writers. They contribute to the development of persuasive proposals, bids, and grant applications to secure projects or funding.
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User Experience (UX) Writer: With a growing emphasis on user-centric design, graduates can pursue roles as UX writers. They collaborate with design teams to create user-friendly interfaces, ensuring that written content within digital products enhances the overall user experience.
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Editor/Copyeditor: Graduates may choose to become editors or copyeditors, working for publishing houses, online platforms, or organizations. They review and refine written materials, ensuring clarity, correctness, and adherence to style guides.
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Instructional Designer: Those interested in education and training can become instructional designers. They develop instructional materials, e-learning courses, and training manuals to facilitate effective learning experiences for diverse audiences.
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Corporate Communication Specialist: Graduates can work in corporate settings as communication specialists, crafting internal and external communications. They may be involved in drafting company newsletters, press releases, or internal memos to maintain effective communication within organizations.
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Information Architect: With a focus on organizing and structuring information, graduates may pursue roles as information architects. They contribute to the design of websites and digital platforms, ensuring that information is presented in a logical and user-friendly manner.
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Freelance Writing/Consulting: Some graduates may opt for freelance writing or consulting, offering their expertise to businesses or individuals in need of professional and technical writing services. This allows for flexibility and the opportunity to work on diverse projects.
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Marketing Communication Specialist: Graduates can enter the field of marketing as communication specialists, developing marketing materials, product descriptions, and promotional content to effectively communicate with target audiences.
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Health Communication Specialist: With a focus on healthcare communication, graduates may work in healthcare organizations, developing patient education materials, health communication campaigns, and medical documentation.
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Government/Public Relations Specialist: Graduates interested in public affairs can work in government or public relations roles. They may be involved in crafting press releases, speeches, and communication strategies to convey information to the public.
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Social Media Manager: In the era of digital communication, graduates can pursue roles as social media managers. They create and curate content for social media platforms, engaging audiences and enhancing brand presence.
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Research Analyst: For graduates with an interest in research, roles as research analysts are viable options. They may analyze data, compile reports, and communicate findings effectively to diverse stakeholders.
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Entrepreneur/Startup Founder: Those with an entrepreneurial spirit may choose to start their own writing consultancy or content creation business, offering specialized writing services to clients in need of effective communication solutions.
