English/Technical and Scientific Communication
Degree: Bachelor of Arts
What is English/Technical and Scientific Communication?
The Bachelor of Arts in Technical and Scientific Communication (BATSC) is intended for students who plan to pursue a career in writing and editing in a technical or scientific environment or to prepare for graduate work in technical and scientific communication. More specifically, the major is intended for students who wish to combine an expertise in computer science, environmental science, or medical and health science with an expertise in writing and editing in print or electronic media. Students will learn to prepare reports, proposals, documentation, and other communications for hardware/software, environmental, or medical health/pharmaceutical organizations.
What are the features of Miami's program?
Technical expertise: In addition to writing expertise, students gain technical expertise through 18 hours of required coursework in one of the following specialty areas: computer science, environmental science, or medical and health science.
Small classes: Because the program is selective, classes are small, and you will be able to work closely with faculty and peers. All program faculty are experts in the field and stay current through their research and their work with business and industry.
Top-notch facilities: All classes are conducted in the program's computer classroom, equipped with updated software for word processing, desktop publishing, Web design, animation, and online development of Help systems and portfolios.
Are there special admission requirements?
Yes, enrollment is limited to 20 new students each year. Students can apply for pre-major status in the English department, and then apply for formal acceptance to the major after they have completed ENG 313, Introduction to Technical Writing. Students must apply to the major before enrolling in ENG 415, Practicum in Technical and Scientific Communication.
What courses would I take?
In the first semester or your sophomore year, you'll continue with Miami Plan courses, apply for pre-major status in the program, and take courses in journalism, public speaking, and interactive media. In the second semester of your sophomore year, you might take the Introduction to Technical Writing and a linguistics course.
In your junior year, you should apply for major status. In addition to the 18 hours of required professional electives (in computer, environmental, or biological sciences), you will take specialty courses in technical and scientific communication that focus on writing, editing, design, and the use of interactive tools to communicate specialized knowledge. The program culminates in a capstone course in which students work as a professional team to prepare documents in cooperation with local community partners or clients. Students may also take the IMS capstone mentioned above.
What can I do with this major?
A graduate with this major can perform a variety of jobs, including helping scientists prepare journal articles; writing print or online documentation for computer hardware or software developers; preparing company communications for a national organization such as the Environmental Protection Agency or the National Food and Drug Administration; or preparing newsletters, brochures, articles, or reports for different audiences connected with hospitals or environmental firms.
Who can I contact for more information?
For general information about Miami University, please contact:
Office of Admission
301 S. Campus Ave.
Miami University
Oxford, OH 45056-3434
513-529-2531 (v/t)
www.muohio.edu/requestinfo
For specific information on the English/Technical and Scientific Communication major, please contact:
Jean Lutz, Program Director
Department of English
378 Bachelor Hall
Miami University
Oxford, OH 45056
513-529-5282
lutzja@muohio.edu
www.muohio.edu/english
