Program Overview
The Professional and Technical Writing (PTW) bachelor's program at the University of Arizona equips students with the communication, critical thinking, and digital skills needed to effectively navigate diverse technical and cultural environments. Graduates are prepared for careers in technical writing, professional editing, content strategy, project management, and user experience design, or for advanced studies requiring exceptional writing and technical expertise.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Bachelor of Arts in Professional and Technical Writing (PTW) prepares students to communicate effectively and ethically in technologically and culturally diverse environments. The degree draws on the expertise of English department faculty to provide preparation in critical reading and thinking, language skills, editing, research, communication genres and styles, rhetorical theory, and practices of digital communication. The PTW major offers students the opportunity to engage in local community and industry writing projects that will provide valuable professional preparation. Graduates of the PTW major will be ready to pursue graduate studies in fields requiring highly developed writing skills and technical knowledge, or to pursue careers in a range of industries, in professions including:
- technical writing
- professional editing and publishing
- content strategy and management
- project management
- user experience research and design
Learning Outcomes:
- Communicate effectively and inclusively across differences in cultures, abilities, and technologies
- Implement flexible strategies for designing and redesigning communication in a variety of genres and platforms and for a variety of purposes
- Apply a repertoire of research strategies to understand, engage, and collaborate with readers, users, and stakeholders
- Analyze, develop, and manage content using appropriate tools and technologies
- Apply reflexive and critical strategies for self-assessment
Outline:
Coursework Location(s):
Main/Tucson
Areas of Interest:
Arts & Media, Communication, Journalism & Public Relations, English & Literature, Social & Behavioral Sciences
Level of Math:
General Knowledge
Level of Second Language:
4th Semester Proficiency
Pre-major Required:
No
Sample Plan:
First Year
- 1st Semester: ENGL 101 First Year Composition (3 credits), First Semester Second Language Course (4 credits), GE Core: Exploring Perspectives or Building Connections (3 credits), GE Core: Exploring Perspectives or Building Connections (3 credits), GE Core: Exploring Perspectives or Building Connections (3 credits), Introduction to the General Education Experience (Entry Course) (1 credit)
- 2nd Semester: ENGL 102 First Year Composition (3 credits), Second Semester Second Language Course (4 credits), Math (3 credits), GE Core: Exploring Perspectives or Building Connections (3 credits), GE Core: Exploring Perspectives or Building Connections (3 credits)
Second Year
- 3rd Semester: Third Semester Second Language Course (4 credits), GE Core: Exploring Perspectives or Building Connections (3 credits), GE Core: Exploring Perspectives or Building Connections (3 credits), General Education Portfolio (Exit Course) (1 credit)
- 4th Semester: Fourth Semester Second Language Course (4 credits), Minor Course (3 credits), Minor Course (3 credits), ENGL 413 (3 credits), Major Elective (3 credits)
Third Year
- 5th Semester: ENGL 430 (3 credits), Upper Division Major Elective (3 credits), Upper Division Major Elective (3 credits), Minor Course (3 credits), General Elective (3 credits)
- 6th Semester: ENGL 440 (3 credits), Upper Division Major Elective (3 credits), Minor Course (3 credits), Upper Division Major Elective (3 credits), General Elective (3 credits)
Fourth Year
- 7th Semester: Upper Division Major Elective (3 credits), Minor Course (3 credits), General Elective (3 credits), General Elective (3 credits), General Elective (3 credits)
Careers:
Graduates of the PTW major will be ready to pursue graduate studies in fields requiring highly developed writing skills and technical knowledge, or to pursue careers in a range of industries, in professions including:
- technical writing
- professional editing and publishing
- content strategy and management
- project management
University of Arizona
Overview:
The University of Arizona, located in Tucson, Arizona, is the state's land-grant institution and its first university. It is known for its world-changing research and discovery, with a focus on innovation and impact. The university boasts a diverse student body and offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines.
Services Offered:
The University of Arizona provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Academic Resources:
Libraries, class registration, academic advising, and international engagement opportunities.Student Life:
Housing, dining, student clubs and organizations, athletics, and campus amenities.Financial Aid:
Scholarships and financial aid for undergraduate and graduate students.Research Opportunities:
Hands-on research experiences for students across various fields.Campus Safety:
Emergency information, Title IX resources, and annual security reports.Accessibility:
Resources and support for students with disabilities.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at the University of Arizona can expect a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university fosters a strong sense of community through its numerous student clubs and organizations, athletic events, and traditions. The campus is located in Tucson, a city known for its rich culture, diverse cuisine, and proximity to the Sonoran Desert.
Key Reasons to Study There:
World-Class Research:
The University of Arizona is a top-ranking research institution with a strong focus on innovation and discovery.Diverse Academic Programs:
Students can choose from over 150 majors and programs of study across 21 colleges and schools.Engaging Campus Life:
The university offers a vibrant student life with numerous clubs, organizations, and athletic events.Tucson Location:
The campus is located in a vibrant city with a rich culture and diverse amenities.Strong Alumni Network:
The University of Arizona has a large and active alumni network that provides support and opportunities for graduates.Academic Programs:
The University of Arizona offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate Majors:
Over 150 majors across various disciplines, including business, engineering, science, humanities, and the arts.Graduate Programs:
A variety of graduate programs, including master's and doctoral degrees.Professional Education & Certification:
Programs for professional development and certification in various fields.Other:
The University of Arizona is committed to diversity and inclusion, and it strives to build sustainable relationships with Native Nations and Indigenous communities. The university also has a strong focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility.
