What can I do with a Certificate in Technical Writing and Professional Writing?

Question

I am currently a history major. I though a certificate in Technical Writing and Professional Writing might be something good to supplement my degree with, as I do a lot of writing and research anyway. I was just wondering what people with technical & professional writing degrees/certificates do. Would it be worth it for me to try to earn this certificate?

Answer 1

I have one of these and one in editing. What I do with it that relates is that I write. For me, writing is more a hobby than a profession but the training has been incredibly valuable in my graduate study (which has included a lot of academic writing) and has resulted (albeit indirectly) in my publication credits.

You will find it has distinct value as a historian. It's not so much the value of holding the certificate (though that does help your credibility on matters of writing) but instead the abilities that the coursework to earn it will provide you.

The ability to communicate well in writing is one of those skills that all employers at all levels wish their applicants had. What you have to do to maximize the value is to get published. Publish anything, anywhere. If you can work your way into a peer reviewed journal even better.

There is a market for specialty and nice non-fiction that a historian is uniquely qualified to research. I'm working with a historian who isn't a tech writer/editor to develop one such that examines the realities and facts behind some local ghost legends for example.

If there are skills that will always be valuable to you no matter what line of work you pursue, writing and speaking must be the two with the greatest utility.

If you have the natural talent for writing - develop it and just watch all of the interesting doors that open to you.

Answer 2

work in the White House