Technical Writing - Graduate Certificate Programme content
Key information
Key information
- Complete part-time over two years (four semesters)
- Delivered online via the UL Virtual Learning Environment (VLE)
- Modules taught during the autumn and spring semesters
- One 9 credit module completed per semester (total of four modules)
- Assessed through continuous coursework (no end-of-semester exams)
- Expected to log in to the VLE several times a week (flexible, not at fixed times)
- Optional on-campus workshop is available (materials are also provided online)
- No direct route from the Graduate Certificate to the MA Technical Communications and E-Learning
- Apply for the MA to retain the option to graduate with a Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma, or MA
You will learn through a blend of
- Lectures delivered via podcasts, with learning objects and other resources
- Workshops and hands-on activities
- Reflective practice and guided research
- Regular feedback from faculty and peers through group work and assessments
- Online chats, discussions, and peer-supported learning activities
Additional information
Delivery
- Starts on the first Monday in September.
- All four modules are assessed online via continuous assessment (no compulsory on-campus attendance).
- Occasional on-campus software workshops will be offered (max one day per semester).
- Workshop attendance is optional; materials will be available online for all students.
Additional costs
- Additional costs may include internet access and books (approx. 2 books per module).
- Books and journal articles needed for the course will be available online through the UL Glucksman Library.
- Use free, limited-period trial versions of software tools for some assignments.
- Access discounted devices, software, and services through HEAnet
Progression to MA Technical Communications and E-Learning
- No direct progression route offered from this Graduate Certificate to the MA Technical Communications and E-Learning.
- Retain the option to graduate with a Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma and MA by applying directly for the MA in Technical Communication and E-Learning.
- Option to exit the MA in Technical Communications and E-Learning with a Graduate Certificate after completing one academic year (two modules per semester)
- Complete the programme in one academic year, and apply for the MA in Technical Communication and E-Learning
Programme content - Year 1
Core module
- Principles of Professional and Technical Communication and Information Design (TW5211) students will explore audience analysis, writing style, typography, and document design.
Books and journal articles needed for the course will be available online through the UL Glucksman Library.
For more information on each module, you can search the faculty, school and module code on UL’s Book of Modules.
Core module
- Workplace Issues in Technical and Professional Communication (TW5212) will explore ethical and legal issues in professional communication, as well as codes of practice, trends and relevant skills.
Books and journal articles needed for the course will be available online through the UL Glucksman Library.
For more information on each module, you can search the faculty, school and module code on UL’s Book of Modules.
Programme content - Year 2
Core module
Instructional Design (EL6041) will explore the history of instructional design.
Books and journal articles needed for the course will be available online through the UL Glucksman Library.
For more information on each module, you can search the faculty, school and module code on UL’s Book of Modules.
Core module
- Interactive Courseware Workshop (EL6072) Students taking this module will learn how to create storyboards and develop proposals for e-learning materials. They will also design and produce a digital resource.
Books and journal articles needed for the course will be available online through the UL Glucksman Library.
For more information on each module, you can search the faculty, school and module code on UL’s Book of Modules.
