While it’s difficult to pinpoint the “next best” certificate after “Become a Technical Writer,” there are a few widely recognized and respected technical writing certificate programs that you can consider. Here are some popular options:
Traditional Options for Technical Writing Certificates
- Society for Technical Communication (STC) Certification Program: STC is a professional association dedicated to the field of technical communication. They offer a multi-level certification program (Foundation, Practitioner, and Expert) that assesses your knowledge, skills, and experience. The certification process includes a mix of exams, work samples, and professional references. Learn more at https://www.stc.org/certification/
- American Medical Writers Association (AMWA): AMWA offers a Medical Writing Certification, which is designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of medical writers.
- International Association of Business Communicators (IABC): IABC offers a Communication Management Professional (CMP) certification, which covers a range of communication skills, including technical writing.
- American Writers & Artists Institute (AWAI): AWAI offers a Technical Writing Certification program, which is designed to provide training and certification in technical writing.
University Technical Writing Certficates
Among universities and colleges, some of the distinguished technical writing certificates include:
- University of California, Berkeley – Extension Certificate in Technical Communication: UC Berkeley offers a comprehensive program that covers key aspects of technical writing, editing, and document design. The curriculum includes a mix of required courses and electives that you can tailor to your interests. Courses are available online and in-person. Learn more at https://extension.berkeley.edu/public/category/courseCategoryCertificateProfile.do?method=load&certificateId=17039
- University of Washington – Professional & Continuing Education Certificate in Professional Technical Writing: This online program is designed for individuals seeking a career in technical writing or those looking to enhance their existing skills. It covers core concepts, such as audience analysis, document design, and usability testing. Learn more at https://www.pce.uw.edu/certificates/professional-technical-writingUniversity
- California San Diego Extension: The UC San Diego Extension offers a Technical Communication certificate program, which covers technical writing, editing, and communication.
- Bellevue College: Bellevue College in Washington State offers a Technical Writing certificate program, which includes courses on technical writing, editing, and document design.
- Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI): IUPUI offers a Technical Communication certificate program, which covers technical writing, editing, and visual communication.
For-Profit Technical Writing Certificates
There are quite a few private for-profit companies that offer technical writing certificates. Here are a few:
- Udemy: Udemy is an online learning platform that offers a variety of technical writing courses and certificates, including Technical Writing: How to Write Software Documentation and Technical Writing: Master Your Writing Career.
- Global eTraining: Global eTraining offers a Technical Writing certificate program, which covers technical writing principles, styles, and techniques.
- Skillshare: Skillshare is an online learning community that offers a variety of technical writing courses and certificates, including Technical Writing: How to Write a User Manual for Software, Technical Writing for Engineers and Scientists, and Technical Writing Fundamentals.
- ProEdit: ProEdit offers a Technical Writing certificate program, which includes courses on technical writing, editing, and project management.