Report an accessibility problem

Applied Science (Technical Communication) ,BAS

Applied Science (Technical Communication), BAS

Academic programs / Undergraduate degrees / Applied Science (Technical Communication)

BAS, Communications, Data visualization, Digital Media, Editing, Editor, Multimedia, Social media, Technical Graphics, User-Centered Design, Visual Communication, Web, Write, Writer, approved for STEM-OPT extension, writing

Program description

The BAS in applied science with a concentration in technical communication is a flexible program designed specifically for students who have earned an AAS degree from a regionally accredited institution. This major combines the technical experience gained from an associate degree program with a broader education of skills in management, leadership, critical thinking and communication.

Technical communication is applied workplace communication that makes technical information understandable and available to many audiences. In the technical communication concentration, students learn how to produce, design and manage information using both traditional and developing technologies.

This major is eligible for the Western Undergraduate Exchange program at the following location: Polytechnic campus. Students from Western states who select this major and campus may be eligible for reduced nonresident tuition at a rate of 150% of Arizona resident tuition plus all applicable fees. Students should click the link for more information and eligibility requirements of the WUE program.

STEM-OPT for international students on F-1 visas

This program may be eligible for an Optional Practical Training extension for up to 36 months. This OPT work authorization term may help international students gain skills and experience in the U.S. Those interested in an OPT extension should review ASU degrees that qualify for the STEM-OPT extension at ASU's International Students and Scholars Center website.

The OPT extension only applies to students on an F-1 visa and does not apply to students completing the degree through ASU Online.

At a glance
  • Second language requirement: No
  • First required math course: MAT 142 - College Mathematics
  • Math intensity: Generalprogram math intensity general

Required courses (Major Map)
Concurrent program options
Students pursuing concurrent degrees (also known as a “double major”) earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. Working with their academic advisors, students can create their own concurrent degree combination. Some combinations are not possible due to high levels of overlap in curriculum.
Admission requirements

General university admission requirements:

All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
First-year | Transfer | International | Readmission

Additional requirements:

Students applying to this program must have completed an AAS degree from a regionally accredited institution. This program is not available to first-year students.

Tuition information
When it comes to paying for higher education, everyone’s situation is different. Students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options to find out which will work best for them.
Change of Major requirements

Only students who have completed an Associate of Applied Science degree are eligible to declare Bachelor of Applied Science majors at ASU.

Students should visit the Change of Major form for information about how to change a major to this program.

Transfer options

ASU is committed to helping students thrive by offering tools that allow personalization of the transfer path to ASU. Students may use MyPath2ASU® to outline a list of recommended courses to take prior to transfer.

ASU has transfer partnerships in Arizona and across the country to create a simplified transfer experience for students. These pathway programs include exclusive benefits, tools and resources, and they help students save time and money in their college journey.

Global opportunities
Global experience

Technology is connecting the world, and future technical communication professionals must be proficient in cross-cultural communication --- a skill well-developed through study abroad. Through unique study abroad experiences across the globe, students gain valuable skills. Whether in a foreign country, in the U.S. or online, by participating in one of the more than 300 available Global Education programs, students expand their scope of learning beyond the classroom and gain hands-on experience in different and exciting cultures.

Many of the School of Applied Professional Studies programs allow students to earn credit toward their major for their experiences studying abroad.

Career opportunities

The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates the need for writers and editors will increase by 4% during the next 10 years. Software and electronics companies, media corporations, financial institutions, government agencies, nonprofits and other areas will see an increased demand for writers.

Students in the program prepare for careers as:

  • advertising and promotions managers
  • communications professors
  • copy writers
  • correspondence clerks
  • court clerks
  • desktop publishers
  • editors
  • media and communication workers
  • proofreaders and copy markers
  • public relations specialists
  • technical writers

Example job titles and salaries listed below are not necessarily entry level, and students should take into consideration how years of experience and geographical location may affect pay scales. Some jobs also may require advanced degrees, certifications or state-specific licensure.


Career *Growth *Median salary
3.4%
$76,250
20.3%
$99,620
5.0%
$57,890
9.7%
$98,740
-4.0%
$73,080
9.7%
$98,740
2.5%
$66,490
13.4%
$68,230
6.9%
$79,960
17.0%
$78,580
* Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

Bright OutlookBright Outlook

Contact information
What are accelerated programs?
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.

3 year programs

These programs allow students to fast-track their studies after admission and earn a bachelor's degree in three years or fewer while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students should talk to their academic advisor to get started.

Accelerated master's

These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).

Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
What are concurrent programs?
Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.
What are joint programs?
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.

What constitutes a new program?
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the “New Programs” option.
What are online programs?
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.
What is the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE)?
The Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) is a program in which residents of western states (other than Arizona) may be eligible for reduced nonresident tuition. See more information and eligibility requirements on the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) program.

click back to top