Program Overview
Texas State University's online Master of Arts in Technical Communication (MATC) program equips professionals and graduates with the skills to effectively communicate in technical and professional settings. The program offers two tracks: thesis for doctoral aspirations and internship for career advancement. Led by renowned faculty with industry experience, the curriculum emphasizes technical writing, editing, user research, digital design, and ethical considerations in technical communication. Graduates are prepared for careers in various industries, including business, government, and healthcare.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The online Master of Arts in Technical Communication (MATC) program at Texas State University is designed for experienced professionals and recent graduates from various disciplines. It aims to prepare students to write, design, and communicate effectively in technical, scientific, and professional environments. The program has two tracks: thesis and internship, both requiring 30 semester hours to complete. The thesis track is suitable for students planning to pursue a doctoral degree, while the internship track is ideal for those currently working full-time or seeking employment in the field. The MATC curriculum provides a solid foundation in technical communication, editing, rhetorical theory, intercultural and international communication, user research, social media and digital design, technical marketing communication, and software. The program also offers access to a state-of-the-art usability lab for user experience research and emphasizes the ethical and cultural issues in technical communication.
Objective
The program's objectives are to:
- Strengthen students' ability to write clear technical and scientific information
- Build and refine technical editing skills
- Teach students to create end-user and developer documentation
- Help students design and create digital content for specific audiences
- Provide access to a state-of-the-art usability lab to conduct user experience research
- Acquaint students with the ethical and cultural issues in technical communication
Teaching:
The MATC program is taught by nationally and internationally recognized researchers with a proven record of teaching excellence. They have earned awards and board memberships from leading professional organizations in the field. All faculty have work experience in business, government, scientific, and medical institutions. They have active research agendas and noteworthy publications in international and intercultural communication, medical and scientific writing, social media and usability testing, government writing, web design, video production, and curriculum development.
Careers:
The MATC program prepares students for current and emerging employment in business, government, environmental, medical, and health industries. Alumni are employed in various roles, including:
- Technical writers and editors
- User research managers and writers
- Grant and communication specialists
- Project coordinators
- Content developers
- Chief publishing officers
