Frequently Asked Questions
TECHNICAL COMMUNICATION CERTIFICATE
1. Why is it important that I apply for admission into the program?
This program is designed for individuals who are interested or are already working in the field of technical and scientific communications. It is advised that you seek admission to the certificate before taking any coursework.
As an admitted student
- You will receive relevant updates about the program.
- You will be eligible to apply for federal financial aid.
- You will have access to academic advising.
- You will have an opportunity to register earlier than a student who is not admitted.
- You will be assured that the tuition you pay for a course is the approved certificate tuition rate.
2. How long will it take for me to complete the program?
Students have four years to complete a certificate. If additional time is needed you may petition for an extension.
3. Can I include this certificate in a degree program?
Students may be admitted concurrently in both a certificate program and a degree program. Your credits earned through a certificate program may also be transferable to a graduate degree program at the University of Minnesota or another institution. Check with the appropriate degree program adviser to determine whether the credits will transfer.
Contact the Department of Rhetoric if you are interested in applying for the M.S. in Scientific & Technical Communication degree program. The Technical Communications certificate will fit into this degree program.
4. Is advising available?
For new students, faculty advising will be available from the program Director of Graduate Studies, who should be contacted for advising upon acceptance into the program.
5. Once I receive my letter of acceptance from the Graduate School what do I do?
It is very important to schedule an appointment with the Director of Graduate Studies within two weeks of receiving your letter. This advising session will also help to determine the appropriate faculty advisor who will assist you with your program of study.
6. Do I have to take the courses in order?
Certificate coursework can be taken as courses are scheduled in fall, spring, and summer terms. Courses do not need to be taken in a particular order.
7. Do I have to take a course each semester?
If you are not able to take a course in a given term, there is a zero-credit, no-tuition option you can use to keep your record active: Grad 999 . By registering for Grad 999, your record remains active but you aren’t enrolled in course work.
If you don’t register each term, the Graduate School will discontinue your record, meaning the Graduate School will consider you "inactive" and require you to apply for readmission. If you are discontinued, you will need to complete a Change of Status/Readmission Application and pay a processing fee. You also need to register for a class to activate your readmission.
8. Can I transfer course work to the program?
With approval, transfer course work completed at the University of Minnesota or any other accredited institution can make up 40 percent of the certificate requirements. At least 60 percent of the credits for completion of the certificate must be earned after admission to the certificate and must be completed at the University of Minnesota.
9. Where can I learn more about employment opportunities with this certificate?
Informal interviews with professors, supervisors, or professionals working in your career of interest are very effective ways to find out more about the field and about necessary skills, experience, qualifications, and how the certificate can best work for you. In addition, the College of Continuing Education Career and Lifework Planning Services offers individual consultations, workshops, and career-related assessments that can help you explore career options.
10. How do I apply?
Check the Technical Communications Admission web-site for specific instructions about the application process.
If you have questions call 612-624-4000 or send an e-mail message to cceinfo@umn.edu
