Some typical types of technical documents are manuals, procedures, online help, Web pages, brochures, newsletters, reports, feasibility studies, and proposals. Simply put, technical communicators help simplify complex information so that people can accomplish tasks more easily and make better decisions. In the first quarter of 2000, the Daily Herald identified technical communication as one of the top ten careers of the new century. With the growth in technology and the flood of information today, the world needs people who can communication clearly and efficiently. Starting salaries are typically in the mid-30s, but those with advanced degrees and experience can expect considerably more.
Students usually have little difficulty landing a position.
The greater Chicagoland area is home to many major corporations, research laboratories, and organizations that hire technical communicators. Most of our graduate courses meet one evening per week for about three hours. Other required courses may meet once a week in the late afternoon on the same day as the evening course. Also, courses offered in conjunction with the Chicago Chapter STC Institute for Professional Development are held on Saturdays in both the spring and fall semesters. The Institute courses are offered in the suburbs in the fall and spring semesters every year.