technical writing courses ontario

• Int'l Campuses
• Corporate Training
• Future Students
• Current Students
• International Students

Financial Aid

School of advanced technology, create easy-to-understand content, apply directly to the co-op version of this program through ontariocolleges.ca or our international application portal., "graduates from the technical writer program have proven themselves to be just the kind of employees we look for – skilled, passionate, and dedicated to making each project they work on a success.” - leo paoletti, manager, content architecture and systems, kinaxis, virtual tour, explore our campuses online, find out what your program delivery will look like.

Technical Writer (Co-op and Non Co-op Version)

Meet the demand for quality professional documentation in the workplace..

• Learn highly prized skills that enable you to work in either the public or private sector, and in a freelance, part-time or full-time capacity
• Enjoy a combination of real-world learning, group projects, and collaborative learning activities
• Graduates find careers as writers, editors, documentation specialists, information architects, content developers, technical editors, instructional designers and communication officers

Apply your computer programming talent to launch a career creating games of strategy and skill.

Program Information

Program availability, availability, international availability, competitive, program summary.

College Approved Certificate

Program Delivery

View delivery information

Program Code

Area of Interest

Other Delivery Options

Work Integrated Learning

Applied research projects

• Scheduled or unscheduled experiential learning opportunities intended to enhance students' work and life skills by bringing them together with faculty, staff, and community partners to tackle real world challenges. Applied research projects encompass a wide variety of activities and include products, processes and services. Examples include marketing research, web application development, product design and manufacture, health care applications etc. Students do not typically receive a regular salary or wage from the employer;  this instructional project is characterized by:
• Activities in which college staff directly or indirectly supervise students and for which college staff undertake one or more of the following activities:
• Ensure that assignments given to students and the work being done by students are suitable for the program.
• Monitor the students’ progress in the applied research project activity.
• Help address problems encountered by students in the applied research project activity.
• Evaluate students' performance in the applied research project activity.

Cooperative Education (Apply to Co-op version 1182X03FWO)

Co-op programs are learning experiences where academic studies and work experience are integrated. Depending on the program, students may have one or more terms where they are working full-time in a co-op work term.

Why choose a co-op program?

• Earn full-time, paid industry experience related to the program of study
• Network and build industry connections
• Explore different career paths and develop a personal brand
• Co-op experiences enhance in class learning
• Co-op students can earn between $7,000-$10,000 per work term

Students must meet all eligibility criteria to participate in co-op. There is no guarantee of co-op employment as students are responsible for searching for and securing their co-op terms. Co-op fees apply.

Field placement/work placement

• Scheduled hours of activities intended to give student hands- on experience in the workplace and for which the students do not typically receive a regular salary or wage from the employer; this instructional setting is characterized by:
• Activities that are an integral component of the curriculum of the program and are necessary for the completion of the program.
• Activities in which college staff do not directly supervise students and for which college staff undertake one or more of the following activities:
• Make periodic site visits.
• Monitor the students’ progress in the field placement activity.
• Help address problems encountered by students in the field or work placement activity.
• Evaluate student’s performance in the field or work placement activity.

The Technical Writer Ontario College Graduate Certificate program provides you with the skills and training needed for a career in technical communication. Throughout this one-year program, you create different types of workplace documents to help users enjoy all features of a product, service or information. In particular, you learn to:... (read more)

Programs at Algonquin College are delivered using a variety of instruction modes. Courses may be offered in the classroom or lab, entirely online, or in a hybrid mode which combines classroom sessions with virtual learning activities. Upon registration, each full-time student is provided an Algonquin email account which is used to communicate important information about program or course events.

Course Name:

Cooperative Education and Job Readiness

Course Description:

Students are guided through a series of activities that prepare them to conduct a professional job search and succeed in the workplace. Thro... + Read More

Technical Writing I

Technical communicators must craft documents that inform, instruct and persuade. Students learn how to communicate technical information by ... + Read More

Emerging Trends in Technical Communication

Significant changes in the workplace are the result of new and advanced technologies. Students are introduced to emerging trends in the fiel... + Read More

Designing VIsual Information

Technical communicators must ensure that written content is supported by visual elements. Students learn the principles of designing effecti... + Read More

Information Planning and Management

Content is generated by organizations to support their products, services and processes. Students take a unified content strategy approach a... + Read More

Technical communicators often act as editors. Students formalize their abilities to edit written work at the copyediting and proofreading le... + Read More

Developing Technical Documentation

Technical communicators frequently author content using a code-based approach. Students learn the docs-as-code process by writing and editin... + Read More

Online Help Authoring

Technical communicators must be proficient at creating online help systems. Students are provided with a strong foundation with a leading he... + Read More

Technical Writing II

Technical communicators must get information from subject matter experts and translate their knowledge into useable documentation. Students ... + Read More

Usability and UX

User experience (UX) plays a critical role in making our physical and digital lives frictionless and enjoyable. Students integrate principle... + Read More

Web-Based Tools and Technologies

Technical communicators must be aware of the latest tools in order to be effective in the workplace. Students learn current tools and techno... + Read More

Advanced editing skills are required by technical communicators. Students enhance their abilities to edit written work at the copyediting an... + Read More

Instructional Design and the Technical Communicator

The job of a technical communicator often involves creating training materials. Students learn how to analyze, design, develop, implement a... + Read More

Work Term I

Students complete a paid full-time work term with an employer off campus. The placement is monitored by the College and assignments, includi... + Read More

TWR2000 Technical Writing I

Twr2003 online help authoring, twr2004 technical writing ii, twr2009 emerging trends in technical communication, twr2010 designing visual information, twr2011 usability and ux, twr2012 web-based tools and technologies, twr2014 information planning and management, twr2017 editing i, twr2018 editing ii, twr2019 developing technical documentation, twr2201 instructional design and the technical communicator, careers & pathways.

Please use our Pathways tool to search for pathway options.

Learning Outcomes

Tuition & fees.

Get an idea of how much each semester will cost with our Tuition and Fee Estimator .

2023/2024 Academic Year

Admissions requirements, program eligibility, application information, additional information, program resources, jordan berard, program coordinator.

[email protected]

613-727-4723, ext. 5755

Dr. Jordan Berard holds a Ph.D. in English from the University of Ottawa.  He specializes in representations of trauma and persecution (particularly the Holocaust) in works of Canadian literature, film, and art.

Dr. Berard is the current President of the College Association for Language and Literacy (CALL) and has been a member of the CALL Board of Directors since 2018.

While working on his Ph.D. dissertation, Dr. Berard began to teach applied communications courses to students in trades and technology programs at Algonquin College.  He was hired to teach full-time at the college in 2015 and has taught in the Technical Writer program since 2019.  He is the current Coordinator and Academic Advisor for the on-campus Technical Writer program and can be reached at [email protected] .

Get Started

Ready to apply, get more information, take a campus tour, attend a recruitment event, create a custom viewbook, co-op education, ac pathways, is this program right for me.

Choosing a program that suits you is the first step to a great career. This quiz might help you decide.

Take the Quiz

Do you fit this Program ?

• Do you organize your work and pay attention to detail ? Yes No
• Do you enjoy using software tools to create documents and websites ? Yes No
• Do you function in a self-directed manner in a team environment ? Yes No
• Do you enjoy researching, collecting, analyzing and organizing technical information ? Yes No
• Do you possess interpersonal skills for collaboration with colleagues ? Yes No
• Do you possess advanced written and oral communication abilities ? Yes No

Your results will be sent to your email.

• almost there

Explore our campuses online

Check out the innovative spaces at our Ottawa, Pembroke and Perth campuses.

Take a Virtual Tour

What careers will be open to me?

The right program can lead to great careers for you. Find out, what your future could be.

Get Careers info

Have a question about this Program?

Contact your program Coordinator.

Get contact info

What is a Graduate Certificate?

Find out more about graduate certificates.

Get the info

Get answers to common questions

Read some of the frequently asked questions about this program.

Read the FAQ

Book a campus tour

Book a campus tour to see your classrooms and learn about the services available at the college.

Book tour now

Need financial aid

If you need financial aid, we can help from OSAP to bursaries and beyond.

Financial Aid info

Related Programs

Every attempt is made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this publication. The College reserves the right to modify or cancel any course, program, fee, timetable, or campus location at any time.

This site uses cookies to offer you a better browsing experience. Find out more on how we use cookies and how you can change your settings.

• Student Login
• Brightspace Login

Responsive menu mobile icon

• Technical Writing

Your success in Continuing Education writing courses depends on your ability to write clearly, correctly, and effectively. Whether you are writing creatively or for your workplace, understanding the fundamentals of grammar, punctuation, and usage can help you to accomplish your writing goals. Need to improve these essential skills? We offer a variety of English Grammar and Punctuation courses that will help you to develop them.

Browse this complete list of Technical Writing courses. Review a program's web page to see its required courses.

• All Programs
• Apparel Construction
• Cartooning and Illustration
• Drawing, Painting and Sculpture
• Fashion Design
• Fashion Merchandising
• Garden Design
• Graphic Design
• Image and Fashion Advising
• Interior Decorating
• Performance
• Photography
• Video and Film
• Web Design and Development
• Business Management
• Business Transformation
• Counterterrorism and Intelligence
• Emergency Management
• Human Resources Management
• Incident Management
• Infrastructure Asset Management
• Law Clerk (ILCO)
• Marketing and Public Relations
• Non-profit Management
• Project Management
• Property Management
• Security Enforcement
• Supply Chain and Retail
• Workplace Training and Development
• American Sign Language
• Business Writing
• Creative Writing
• Editing and Publishing
• English Foundations
• English Grammar and Punctuation
• Interpersonal Communication
• Life Writing
• Scriptwriting
• Business Process Automation
• Business Software
• Cloud Computing
• Computer Networking
• Computer Programming
• Computer-aided Drafting and Design (CADD)
• Control Systems
• Creative Design Software
• Cyber and Information Security
• Data Science
• Database Administration
• Information Technology Management
• Architectural Technology
• Building Code
• Building Control Systems
• Carpentry and Home Renovation
• Construction Health and Safety
• Construction Management
• Construction Materials and Methods
• Computer Numerical Control (CNC)
• Estimating and Quantity Surveying
• Fire Alarm and Life Safety
• Gas Technician
• Home Inspection
• HVAC and Refrigeration
• Industrial Maintenance
• Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing (MEP)
• Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC)
• Sustainable Building
• Technical Training
• Adult Learning and Development
• Counselling
• Dental Health
• Early Childhood Education (Part-time)
• Fitness and Wellness Instruction
• Health Administration
• Life Skills Coach Training
• Nursing for Reinstatement
• Nursing for RN Continuing Development
• Nursing for RPNs
• Nursing for Unregistered IENs
• Pharmacy Support
• Physical and Life Sciences
• Student Service Training
• Support Care (PSW and PCA)
• Baking and Pastry Arts (Professional)
• Cakes and Cake Decorating
• Cheese and Oils
• Coffee and Tea
• Chocolate and Confections
• Culinary Arts (Professional)
• Event Management
• Hospitality Management
• Tourism Management
• Vegetarian and Plant-based Cuisine
• Wine and Spirits
• General Education Electives
• Indigenous Studies
• Sciences and Mathematics
• Social Sciences
• Esthetician
• Hairstylist
• Makeup Artist
• Personal Beauty
• Salon Management
• Spa Management
• Teen Makeup Camps
• Online Courses
• Online Programs
• OntarioLearn
• Complete List of Courses
• Complete List of Programs
• Exam Preparation Courses and Exams
• Full-time Course Equivalencies
• Micro-credentials
• New Courses and Programs
• Search Entire Site
• Pre-registration Considerations
• Pre-registration Considerations for Full-time Students
• Pre-registration Considerations for School of Makeup and Esthetics Students
• Registering for Your Class
• Before the First Class
• After the Last Class
• After Your Program
• Course Audits
• Course Credits
• Course Exemptions
• Dress Codes
• Off-site Travel
• Prerequisites
• Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR)
• Professional Designations
• Program Requirements
• Availability, Cancellations and Changes
• College Closures
• Course Wait List Function
• Credential Requests and Replacements
• Eligibility for Registration
• Food Handling in Culinary Labs
• Multi-factor Authentication (MFA)
• Room Assignments
• Student ID Number
• Transcripts
• Withdrawals
• COVID-19 Health and Safety
• Health and Safety
• Human Rights Discrimination and Harassment
• Sexual Assault and Sexual Violence
• Student Behaviour and Community Standards
• Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy
• Google Analytics
• Links to External Websites
• Registered Marks, Trademarks or Service Marks
• Website Accuracy
• Website Copyright
• Campus Security
• Emergency Procedures
• Online Course Requirements and Brightspace
• AppsAnywhere
• College Email
• LinkedIn Learning Video Tutorials
• Microsoft Authenticator
• Microsoft Office 365 Account
• Student Account (STU-VIEW)
• Accessible Learning Services
• Anti-racism, Equity and Human Rights Services
• Bookstores and Computer Store
• Clinical Pre-placement Office
• Facilities Services
• Financial Assistance
• First Aid Centres
• Fitness and Recreation
• General English Assessment (GEA)
• General Math Assessment (GMA)
• IELTS Test Centre
• Jewellery Kit Rentals
• Language Placement Interviews
• Library Learning Commons (LLC)
• Makeup and Esthetics Student Store
• Printing and Photocopying
• SafeWalk Program
• School of Makeup and Esthetics Spa
• Tax Receipt
• Tutoring and Learning Centres
• Why Choose George Brown
• Current Academic Year
• Previous Academic Years
• CAPM and PMP Pre-exams
• CAPS Certified Sommelier
• Classical Yoga Teacher
• Construction and Trades
• Data Analytics
• Dental Radiography
• Editorial Skills
• Hospitality and Culinary Arts
• Information Security
• National Payroll Institute PCP and CPM
• Paralegal Field Placement
• Technical Communication
• Workplace Learning and Adult Education
• Tell Us Your Story
• Teacher Biographies
• Ask George Brown
• Continuing Education Contacts
• Casa Loma Campus
• St. James Campus
• Waterfront Campus
• Room Assignments Look-up
• Courses FAQ
• General FAQ
• Programs FAQ
• Distance Learning FAQ
• New Academic Year Notification Email Sign-up Form
• Full-time Programs

Program delivery information for new students

• Guidance Counsellors
• International Agents

Technical Communication (TEC)

Starts in May

Credential Awarded

• Admission requirements

Program and course delivery

This program is offered in Seneca's flexible delivery format, with some courses delivered online. The optional work term is in-person or online. For courses offered in the flexible delivery format, professors use innovative learning spaces and technology to teach students in a classroom or lab and broadcast in real time to students attending remotely. In flexible courses, students have the choice of coming on campus or learning online.

Learn more:  Seneca’s  program delivery options  and how  courses in this program  will be delivered each term.

International students:  review  Post Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility   before  choosing program and course delivery.

About the Program

This eight-month graduate certificate program offers practical experience for a career in technical, scientific, and computer-related communication. Today’s technical communicators are professionals who create technical content, develop user assistance, design websites, design and deliver corporate training, explain computers and technology to users, create multimedia materials, and develop support systems for consumer products.

You will learn technical writing and editing, graphic and web design, user experience, content strategy, and instructional design. Courses cover the skills necessary to adapt to emerging technologies and launch your career as a professional immediately upon completing the program. You will gain hands-on experience through optional work placement under an employer committed to helping you meet your learning goals.

Computer Requirements

This program has a bring your own device policy . All students will be required to have their own Windows-based laptop.

Throughout this program you will develop the following skills:

• Produce technical documents

Work Experience

Optional work term.

Students meeting all academic requirements may have the opportunity to complete an optional work term(s) in a formal work environment.  The work term(s) is similar in length to an academic semester and typically involves full-time work hours that may be paid or unpaid. In programs with limited work term opportunities, additional academic requirements and a passing grade on a communication assessment may be required for eligibility.  Eligibility for participation does not guarantee a work position will be secured. Additional fees are required for those participating in the optional work term stream regardless of success in securing a work position.

Review eligibility requirements for work-integrated learning

Your Career

Graduates of the program can explore the following career options:

• Technical writer
• Information developer
• Technical editor
• Web content editor
• Documentation specialist
• Usability specialist
• Web designer
• Content strategist
• User experience (UX) writer
• Technical trainer
• Instructional designer
• Communications specialist
• Information designer

Student Works and Experiences

Student Works and Experiences Gallery

Related Programs

• Public Relations – Corporate Communications

Fundamentals of Technical Writing

• Course Description
• ed2go Information

Course description

This course teaches the fundamental techniques that all successful technical writers use. Learn how to translate complex information into easily understood language. Discover the secrets of successful technical writers, including technical writing conventions, interviewing skills, desktop publishing and formatting techniques, key tips for developing graphics and templates, documentation management, and how to publish documents both on paper and electronically.

Course details

Additional information: This course is offered through ed2go. Find out more about ed2go courses.

ed2go courses

These 6-week online courses are designed for working professionals and those seeking personal advancement. From the start date, students have access to their courses 24/7. There are no live lectures or specific days and times students must be logged in. Each Wednesday and Friday, the instructor releases a lesson, for a total of 12. There is a 2-week period at the end of the course to complete the final exam.

Registration dates

Not all courses are offered each term.

Delivery options

In person: classes held in person on a campus/site in a classroom/lab/shop/studio for the course duration

Online - Asynchronous: ​100% online delivery, no scheduled day or time course requirements with the instructor, assigned due dates

Online - Synchronous: 100% online delivery, scheduled day and time course requirements with the instructor, assigned due dates

Hybrid: any combination of in person, timetabled, on campus, online, and hyflex delivery

Technical Writing Course

• Duration: 4 days
• Language: English
• 23 NASBA CPE Credits (live, in-class training only)
• 23 PMI PDUs
• Level: Foundation

The Technical Writing Course is designed to help individuals improve their writing skills in the technical field, including technical communication. The course covers techniques for planning, writing, and editing technical documents and emphasizes identifying the target audience, selecting appropriate document formats, and using visuals and graphics effectively.

Participants will learn how to convey complex subject matter clearly and accurately and create informative content that their readers will understand and use. The course is available in both in-person and online delivery methods and includes an end-of-course exam to test knowledge.

Technical Writing Course Delivery Methods

Technical writing course information.

In this course, you will learn how to:

• Write effective technical documents, manuals, and white papers.
• Assess your audience and develop documents to meet their needs.
• Explain information clearly and accurately.
• Use diagrams, tables, charts, and other graphical tools effectively.
• Create informative content that your readers will understand and use.
• Test your knowledge in the included end-of-course exam.
• Leverage continued support with after-course one-on-one instructor coaching and computing sandbox.

Training Prerequisites

Technical Writing Course Outline

Module 1: introduction to technical writing.

In this module, you will learn how to: 

• Effectively communicate technical information 
• Manage common writing problems 

Module 2: The Writing Process

• Eliminate misconceptions that stall technical writing, such as writer’s block 
• Drive your document design with scenarios 
• Align your goals with the readers’ goals 
• Identify implied knowledge 

Module 3: Ensuring Clarity and Readability

In this module, you will learn how to:

• Differentiate between the three levels of information: operational, tactical, and strategic
• Determine information needs with the Observe, Orient, Decide, Act (OODA) loop
• Create sentences with clarity and build clarity through sentence focus
• Solve common grammar problems in technical writing 
• Evaluate readability using the Given/New technique
• Ensure consistency with a style guide 

Module 4: The Mechanics of Writing

• Select the appropriate words to connect with your audience and convey your message
• Edit for conciseness, accuracy, and quality 

Module 5: Structuring Information for Better Understanding

• Organize data to support readers' scenarios
• Determine when to use a list to highlight points
• Use tables for highly structured data
• Build cohesive documents with the Given/New approach
• Apply useful headings to support skimming 

Module 6: Designing Your Document

• Relate document structure to the audience with audience-driven document design
• Develop reference manuals and write white papers
• Differentiate between post-positive and pragmatic documents and implement the appropriate document format
• Structure introductions, conclusions, and other document sections

Module 7: Developing the Look of Your Document

• Design the appearance of your page, including fonts, alignment, and white space
• Convey information with graphics, photos, and drawings 
• Live Instructor
• 4-day instructor-led training course

After-course coaching available

Upgrade your course experience with: Subscriptions

Get the advantage $3,695.

• Take this course and gain unlimited access to more than 300 virtual instructor-led courses
• Future-proof your career with more than 100 sought-after certifications in the market
• Build real skills through hands-on learning in more than 180 virtual labs
• Grow your skills and capabilities with more than one course at a time and save

Thank you for choosing subscriptions!

• Guaranteed to Run - you can rest assured that the class will not be cancelled. Dec 5 - 8 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM EST Virtual
• Guaranteed to Run - you can rest assured that the class will not be cancelled. Jan 16 - 19 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM EST Ottawa or Virtual
• Jan 30 - Feb 2 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM EST Herndon, VA or Virtual
• Feb 13 - 16 11:00 AM - 6:30 PM EST Aurora, CO or Virtual
• Mar 12 - 15 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM EDT New York or Virtual
• Apr 9 - 12 12:00 PM - 7:30 PM EDT Bellevue, WA or Virtual
• May 7 - 10 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM EDT Herndon, VA or Virtual
• May 28 - 31 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM EDT Austin or Virtual
• Jul 9 - 12 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM EDT Ottawa or Virtual
• Jul 30 - Aug 2 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM EDT Herndon, VA or Virtual
• Aug 20 - 23 11:00 AM - 6:30 PM EDT Aurora, CO or Virtual

Scroll to view additional course dates

• Bring this or any training to your organization

Full-scale program development

• Delivered when, where, and how you want it
• Blended learning models
• Tailored content
• Expert team coaching

We will get in touch with you shortly.

Continue on Your Learning Journey

On Public Schedule, Certification Paths

Custom Course Content, Team Coaching At Your Site

Upskilling, Reskilling, Skills Analysis

Fill out the form below or call 888-843-8733

Need Help Finding The Right Training Solution?

Our training advisors are here for you.

Technical Writing Course FAQs

What will i learn in the technical writing course.

In this course, you will learn how to improve your writing skills in the technical field, specifically in technical communication. You will learn how to write effective technical documents, manuals, and white papers, and tailor them to meet the needs of your target audience.

The course provides an online course option and covers techniques for using diagrams, tables, charts, and negative space to create informative content. The course also includes case studies and an end-of-course exam to test your knowledge.

Can I learn the Introduction to Technical Writing Training online?

Yes! We know your busy work schedule may prevent you from getting to one of our classrooms which is why we offer convenient online training to meet your needs wherever you want, including online training.

Can I earn Professional Development Units for the Introduction to Technical Writing Training course?

Yes, you can receive PDUs from the Technical Writing Training course.

To find out how many PDUs you can receive, check out the PMI Q&A List ›

How can the Technical Writing Course help technical writers?

The Technical Writing Course provides a solution to a problem often faced by technical writers: conveying complicated information to a target audience. Through this course, you will learn how to communicate technical information clearly and accurately, improving your technical writing skills.

Can the Technical Writing Course be of value to businesses looking to improve their writing skills?

Yes! The course focuses on writing in the technical field, providing valuable techniques for writing effective technical documents, manuals, and white papers. This can be a valuable solution for businesses looking to improve their technical communication with potential customers.

How can the Technical Writing Course help those looking to write a white paper?

The Technical Writing Course covers a range of topics related to writing effective technical documents, including white papers. You will learn how to write white papers that clearly and accurately explain technical subject matter to your target audience.

Can the Technical Writing Course be helpful for those writing about specific products or services?

Yes! The course is designed to improve technical writing skills, including the ability to communicate technical information related to specific products or services. This can be useful for anyone who needs to convey technical information to potential customers.

Can the Technical Writing Course be useful for those in non-technical fields looking to improve their business writing skills?

While the course provides valuable tools for organizing information, communicating effectively with a target audience, and conveying complex subject matter, we would recommend Learning Tree course 219, Introduction to Business and Report Writing Training , for non-technical business writing.

Related Courses

Duke Corporate Ed's Transformational Technical Leadership Program teaches skills in translating org strategy & executing own work's strategies.

translate, Duke CE, Certificate Course, technical leaders, mindset, strategic, executing, organizational strategy, architecting, strategies, strategic frame of reference, alignment, operations, people, implementation, desired results, Duk CE, sertificate, teknikal, mndset, strategik, exucuting, orgnizational, archtecting, stratgies, stragegic, refernce, alingment, oprations, pepole, implimentation, desrired, resluts.

In this Business & Report Writing course, you will learn to develop effective writing skills that convey a credible message & project a professional image.

business writing, report writing, contract proposals, business plans, executive summaries, recommendation reports, internal communications, workplace writing, professional communication, English language proficiency, English grammar, Microsoft Word. bisness writing, repot writing, contract propozals, buisness plans, execitive summaries, recomendation reports, internal communication, workplace writting, profesionnal communication, English langage proficiency, Engish grammer, Microsoft Word.

Learn how to write user requirements in this Developing User Requirements training through an immersive, simulated case study. Attend in-class or online.

Developing User Requirements Training, user requirements, requirements development process, elicitation meetings, well-formed user requirements, validating user requirements, managing changes, stakeholders, resources, practical skills, user requirements document, completing a user requirements project, process mapping methodology, user requirments, requirments devolopment process, elicitation mettings, stake holdres.

Cookie Settings

Log in to My Learning Tree

Future Students

Technical & professional communication.

Certificates allow you to complete a specific group of university courses (for credit) as either part of your degree studies or separately.  Additional details on certificates are available here .

Technical and professional writers put scientific and technical information into easily understandable language. They prepare scientific and technical reports, operating and maintenance manuals, catalogues, assembly instructions, sales promotion materials and project proposals. They also plan and edit technical reports and oversee preparation of illustrations, photographs, diagrams, and charts. They impart research findings for scientific or medical professions, organize information for advertising or public relations needs, and interpret data and other information for a general readership.

Glendon's Certificate in Technical & Professional Communication teaches people to transform information into words that others can understand. You will develop a clear understanding of what helps and what interferes with communication.

The certificate program is offered on a part-time basis and all courses are offered in the evening, so you can work while completing the certificate. The certificate takes two years of part-time studies to complete.

Who can take it?

• current York students, or
• new applicants to York who already hold a university degree in a related discipline, or
• new applicants to York who have recent work experience in an administrative or a technical field which requires writing.

How to apply

• If you are a current York student, contact the Technical & Professional Communication program in the School of Translation to find out about admissibility requirements and the application process.
• If you are a new applicant to York and already have a university degree in a related discipline or recent work experience in an administrative or a technical field which requires writing, you must ensure first that you meet the minimum requirements for admission to the University by applying through the Office of Admissions. You would then also make a separate enquiry to the Technical & Professional Communication program, as noted in item 1 above.

Quick Links

Program details, your resources.

• Requirements & Deadlines
• Program Page
• Request More Information

Ways to study

Certificate entry.

Concurrent, Consecutive, Direct

Study Sessions

Scholarships

Apply for scholarships and awards by February 15 and submit your application in PDF format. View the Financial Aid tab on this page for awards specific to your student status.

Speak with our Students

Our Student Ambassadors are ready to answer your questions, show you around campus and share their experiences at York.

International Opportunities

There are many types of global learning available to you. York International is here to help you gain valuable international experience and enrich your education.

See your requirements, costs and deadlines:

We love hearing from you.

416-872-9675

Telephone Hours:

• Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Wednesdays: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Please note:

• Due to higher than usual volume our wait-times range from 20mins – 1 hour (optimal times are between 10:00 to 11:30 a.m.).
• Please note:  The ability to wait in a queue is not currently enabled. If all representatives are already on calls, you will hear a busy signal on the line.  Please hang up and try again later .

York University Student Recruitment & Admissions Bennett Centre for Student Services 99 Ian Macdonald Blvd Toronto, ON M3J 1P3 CANADA

Book a Tour

Make arrangements for a tour of our Keele or Glendon campus .

Connect with York University

0103 - Fundamentals of Technical Writing

Course description.

Course Details    Do you have a knack for explaining complex subjects in a way that makes them easy to understand? If so, you should consider entering the well-paying field of technical writing. This course will teach you the skills you need to succeed as a technical writer. You will learn how to translate complex information into easily understood language, and how to become a wizard at marrying the art of publishing with the science of technology. You'll learn the secrets of successful technical writers, including technical writing conventions, interviewing skills, desktop publishing and formatting techniques, key tips for developing graphics and templates, documentation management, and how to publish documents both on paper and electronically. You'll also learn how to get your first job as a technical writer, plus tricks of the trade that enable you to create high-quality documentation with less work.     How It Works    This course is fully online, you require internet access and an email account. The course duration is 6 weeks, followed by a 2-week period to complete the final exam (online, open book). Lessons are released on Wednesdays and Fridays of each week, for a total of 12.   You are not required to be online at any specific time. In addition to the specific lesson content, there is a discussion board with each lesson and often there is an optional assignment to apply the learning. Following each lesson,   there is a short multiple choice quiz. Your score on these quizzes does not count towards the final mark but completing these helps solidify your learning as well as prepare you for the final exam. The final exam is an open-book, multiple choice exam   and you need to achieve a minimum of 65% on the final exam to pass the course. There is only one opportunity to pass the exam. A certificate of completion from Ed2Go is available for printing immediately upon successful completion of the course and   a certificate from the University of Waterloo will be emailed typically 1-2 weeks later. Many of the Ed2Go courses are eligible towards the various online certificates offered by WatSPEED.    Requirements    Any version of Microsoft Word is acceptable. This course is not suitable for Macintosh users. 

Lesson 1 - Technical Writing Overview. Technical writing is a relatively new profession, but people have been writing technical documents for centuries. In our first lesson, you'll learn the fascinating history of technical writing, plus how the instructor (and many others) became technical writers and how technical writing employs both the logical and creative sides of your brain.

Lesson 2 - Preparing to Write. Technical writing requires preparation. In this lesson, you'll learn the basics of project management for your documentation project (including average amounts of time you should dedicate to different writing activities), key questions to help you analyze your reading audience, and how to organize the information you gather.

Lesson 3 - Gathering Information. In today's lesson, you'll learn powerful communication skills that will help you get the information you need. You'll find out how to develop your listening skills and use body language that keeps you alert and encourages the people you're interviewing to talk with you. You'll also learn how to ask questions that help you get the answers you need more efficiently, and how to apply principles of adult learning when you're analyzing the information you've gathered.

Lesson 4 - Writing Skills. Do you ever get writer's block? Most writers do! Today you'll learn how to shut off your internal editor and give yourself permission to write your first draft more quickly and easily. You'll learn tips that will help you keep writing even when you realize you don't have all of the information you need, plus you'll have more confidence after you finish the grammar and punctuation review in this lesson, which includes tips about how to make your writing more interesting.

Lesson 5 - Tech Writing Conventions. Every profession has rules and conventions that separate the novices from the pros. In this lesson, you'll learn all about time-honored technical writing conventions, such as using parallel structure, an inverted pyramid style of writing, effective headings, and lists.

Lesson 6 - Graphics. Should you save your graphics as bitmaps, gifs, or jpgs? In this lesson, we'll go over the difference between the most popular graphics file formats and guidelines for using each. You'll also learn about a new file format called PNG, and how to create screenshots on your PC, then manipulate your shots in Windows' Paint, saving you the expense of far more costly graphics programs.

Lesson 7 - Document Formatting. Formatting your document can be critical to its success. In this lesson, you'll learn how to choose the typeface or typefaces you want to use and principles for using type effectively in your document. You'll learn about the things you need to keep in mind when laying out your pages. We'll take a look at some layouts that are commonly used in technical documents, then we'll discuss how to achieve those layouts using Microsoft Word.

Lesson 8 - Microsoft Word's Paragraph Styles. Microsoft Word has nearly a 93% market share for PC-based word processing, and it's the de facto standard for most corporations and government agencies. Chances are high that you'll use it at some time in your technical writing career. In fact, most companies require that you be proficient with Word when considering you for technical writing positions. So in this lesson, you'll learn how Microsoft Word is different from other word-processing applications and how to use, modify, and create Word's paragraph styles.

Lesson 9 - Document Templates. When companies use Microsoft Word for their documentation, they expect you to know how to use and create Word templates. In this lesson, you'll learn quick ways to build templates, plus you'll learn some Word skills that will help you dazzle potential employers, such as recording macros, customizing your toolbar, and using cross-references, AutoText, and captions.

Lesson 10 - Creating Indexes. Did you know that indexes are the most widely read section in any technical document? In today's lesson, we'll review indexing conventions, and I'll provide a few tips on building a great index for your document. You'll also learn how to use Microsoft Word to make indexing a bit easier.

Lesson 11 - Editing and Proofreading. To polish your document and make it the best it can be, you need to proofread it and edit it. In today's lesson, you'll learn tips from professional proofreaders and editors, as well as ways you can use Microsoft Word to help you check your spelling and grammar.

Lesson 12 - Publishing Your Document. Publishing your document is an exciting time. All of your hard work is almost done—or is it? In our final lesson, you'll learn about different printing options and trends in publishing. We'll also explore ways you can use your technical writing skills in the job market, a four-step plan for getting your first job, and some ideas about freelancing. Questions are always encouraged!

Applies Towards the Following Certificates

• Effective Workplace Communication : Mandatory

Session Time-Out

Privacy policy.

PRIVACY CONSENT/NOTICE

You consent to and confirm your understanding that the University of Waterloo may collect and use your email address, name and any other personal information that you disclose to the University of Waterloo or which the University of Waterloo collects during the Course, for the purposes of facilitating your registration for, your participation in, and other fundamental activities related to the Course, including requests for your feedback on the Course, and the University of Waterloo may also collect and use such personal information for the purpose of providing you with information on similar courses. The University of Waterloo may disclose some or all of such information, including the status of your participation in the Course and whether or not you have received a certificate from the University of Waterloo in respect of your completion of the Course, to each of the University of Waterloo’s third-party service providers to the extent such information disclosure is necessary for the University of Waterloo to conduct its administration and operations. The University of Waterloo uses Destiny One (“Destiny One”) for your registration of the Course. You consent to Destiny One collecting and disclosing to the University of Waterloo:

Any information you provide during your registration for the Course for the sole purpose of facilitating and administering such registration. Any information collected by the University of Waterloo is collected and maintained under the authority of the University of Waterloo Act, 1972 and in compliance with the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (R.S.O. 1990. C.31) or other applicable legislation. Questions regarding the collection, use, disclosure, access, and correction of your personal information in any specific instance should be addressed to the instructor, WatSPEED (a division of the University of Waterloo), or service responsible for such collection and use. Questions of a general nature regarding the processing of personal information by the University, should be directed to the Privacy Office, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada N2L 3G1. The Secretariat can be contacted by email at [email protected].

All information collected, used and disclosed will be collected, used and disclosed by the University of Waterloo in accordance with its privacy policies, available here: https://uwaterloo.ca/privacy/.

Cookie Policy

Cookie policy

This statement explains how we use cookies on our website. For information about what types of personal information will be gathered when you visit the website, and how this information will be used, please see our privacy policy.

How we use cookies

All of our web pages use "cookies". A cookie is a small file of letters and numbers that we place on your computer or mobile device if you agree. These cookies allow us to distinguish you from other users of our website, which helps us to provide you with a good experience when you browse our website and enables us to improve our website.

Types of cookies we use

We use the following types of cookies:

• Strictly necessary cookies - these are essential in to enable you to move around the websites and use their features. Without these cookies the services you have asked for, such as signing in to your account, cannot be provided.
• Performance cookies - these cookies collect information about how visitors use a website, for instance which pages visitors go to most often. We use this information to improve our websites and to aid us in investigating problems raised by visitors. These cookies do not collect information that identifies a visitor.
• Functionality cookies - these cookies allow the website to remember choices you make and provide more personal features. For instance, a functional cookie can be used to remember the items that you have placed in your shopping cart. The information these cookies collect may be anonymized and they cannot track your browsing activity on other websites.

Most web browsers allow some control of most cookies through the browser settings. To find out more about cookies, including how to see what cookies have been set and how to manage and delete them please visit http://www.allaboutcookies.org/ .

Specific cookies we use

The list below identify the cookies we use and explain the purposes for which they are used. We may update the information contained in this section from time to time.

• JSESSIONID: This cookie is used by the application server to identify a unique user's session.
• registrarToken: This cookie is used to remember items that you have added to your shopping cart
• locale: This cookie is used to remember your locale and language settings.
• cookieconsent_status: This cookie is used to remember if you've already dismissed the cookie consent notice.
• _ga_UA-########: These cookies are used to collect information about how visitors use our site. We use the information to compile reports and to help us improve the website. The cookies collect information in an anonymous form, including the number of visitors to the website, where visitors have come to the site from and the pages they visited. This anonymized visitor and browsing information is stored in Google Analytics.

Changes to our Cookie Statement

Any changes we may make to our Cookie Policy in the future will be posted on this page.

• Arts & Culture

What to expect from a career as a professional Writer

Many of us enjoy or have a passion for writing but don’t realize that it’s possible to make a career from our talents. Communication careers are booming and writers are needed for a variety of mediums from the web to advertising to television and more. Writing programs at Ontario colleges can help students polish their writing techniques and learn new forms and methods of writing that can help them in any number of careers in the industry.

If you’ve got a passion for the written word and want to develop your writing skills as part of your career path, here’s what you need to know.

Writing Courses

There are many different writing programs offered by Ontario’s colleges, so course material will vary depending on the program you choose. Examples include:

• Creative Writing.   Whether you’re an aspiring novelist, poet or essayist, specializing in fiction or non-fiction, creative writing programs are for you. Courses on narrative style and plot and character development can help you find your own voice and style, while courses on freelance writing, editing and the business skills all writers need can help you get your work published.
• Technical Writing.   Technical writing is very different than creative writing, requiring strong analytic skills and the ability to convey visual and technical information clearly and concisely through the written word. Students will learn to design technical documents and produce online documentation, while also learning fundamental writing and editing techniques.
• Copywriting.   Copywriting is another form of creative writing, but one that has a direct goal –   advertising   and selling. Copywriters must learn to convey a message with their words that inspires desired behavior. Often, copywriters will work closely with   graphic designers , and therefore must learn layout and basic design skills for their content.
• Scriptwriting.   Scriptwriting programs will give students the writing skills they need to work in television, theatre, film, new media and a variety of other venues. Students will learn to visualize the end result of their work and will learn the business end of writing, from marketing and promotion to copyright laws and grant application.

General Writing Program Requirements

Ontario college writing programs are often offered as graduate certificate programs, which means completion of a degree or diploma program in a related field is generally required. For diploma programs, an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent is required, which includes a grade 12 English credit.

In both types of programs, a writing sample may also be required.

Writing Jobs and Salaries

Jobs in the writing field can take you nearly anywhere, from marketing departments to   television  and broadcasting studios to manufacturer and corporate headquarters. Many writers also work independently, as freelance writers or in attempts to have themselves published.

Because of the broad range of job opportunities, salaries are difficult to predict. Technical writers, freelance writers and copywriters can expect starting salaries anywhere from $30,000 to $55,000 per year, depending on the position and their level of experience. For novelists, salary can only be dictated by the success of their book sales and their contract with a publisher.

Ontario Colleges Offering Writing Programs

Use the left-column navigation to refine your search by College, Program Availability, Program Start Date and more, or see the table below for a complete list of writing programs at Ontario colleges.

More Information

• Ontario Arts Council
• Writers Guild of Canada

Current Filters:

| Campus: | | | | Website

Program Details

This website uses cookies in order to optimize your personalized experience, support website analytics and to deliver advertising. For more information, read our cookie policy .

Niagara College Canada

Part-time studies, course catalogue.

• About Online Learning
• Online Courses Catalogue
• Part-Time Programs Catalogue
• Professional Association Equivalencies Catalogue
• Personal Support Worker to Practical Nursing Bridge
• OntarioLearn
• ed2go (Non-Credit General Courses)
• Online Course Series
• About Motorcycle Training
• Motorcycle and Motor-Tricycle Courses
• Location and Parking
• Rider Requirements and Expectations
• Contact Motorcycle Training
• How to Register
• Class Changes and Cancellations
• Enrolment and Eligibility
• Fees, Refunds and Withdrawals
• Grades and Transcripts
• Student Services
• Apply for Statement of Completion

Fundamentals of Technical Writing

Do you have a knack for explaining complex subjects in a way that makes them easy to understand? If so, you should consider entering the well-paying field of technical writing. This course will teach you the fundamentals techniques that all successful technical writers use. You will learn how to translate complex information into easily understood language, and how to become a wizard at marrying the art of publishing with the science of technology. You will also learn the secrets of successful technical writers, including technical writing conventions, interviewing skills, desktop publishing and formatting techniques, key tips for developing graphics and templates, documentation management, and how to publish documents both on paper and electronically.

Course Outline

Online classes, get in the know..

Subscribe to receive updates about the newest courses straight to your inbox.

All fields are required.

Customer Service

Our helpful staff are here for you! Chat with us , or contact us via email or phone.

Niagara College acknowledges the land on which we gather is the traditional territory of the Haudenosaunee and Anishinaabe peoples, many of whom continue to live and work here today. This territory is covered by the Upper Canada Treaties and is within the land protected by the Dish With One Spoon Wampum agreement. Today this gathering place is home to many First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples and acknowledging reminds us that our great standard of living is directly related to the resources and friendship of Indigenous peoples.