Advising –
English and Technical Communication |
Missouri S&T
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Undergraduate Advising
The English and Technical Communication (ETC) advising office is here to help students navigate Missouri S&T’s unique program, which blends the humanistic study of English with the principles of technical communication. Our STEM-focused environment equips students with the adaptive thinking and ethical training that today’s job market demands, preparing them for careers in engineering, health care, publishing, government, and beyond.
Advisors provide personalized support in course selection, research opportunities, and client-based projects that offer real-world experience. Students meet with their advisor each semester and can schedule additional appointments through S&T Connect or visit during walk-in hours.
Dr. Sarah Hercula
Assistant Chair for Undergraduate Studies
herculas@mst.edu
HSS 207
ETC Academic & Career Resources
Degree Module Map
This map is designed to guide students through a flexible, career-focused curriculum. By selecting core and supplementary modules, students can tailor their education to match their interests and career goals. With coursework in literature, linguistics, and technical communication, along with hands-on experiences like internships and research projects, students develop adaptable skills for a rapidly evolving job market. The map also highlights key milestones, from career exploration in the first year to graduation preparation in the final year.
Core Modules
Literature:
Enhance critical thinking through the study of literature, honing skills essential for professions that demand effective communication within human narratives.
Linguistics:
Engage with the scientific study of language, exploring structure, usage, and evolution while developing linguistics strategies for various communicative contexts.
Technical Communication:
Develop skills to ethically and effectively convey complex information, preparing for diverse careers by prioritizing user-focused communication.
Supplementary Modules
Supplementary modules are three-course sequences added on to core modules to increase specialization and improve career marketability. Some available core modules include:
Marketing management
Creative writing
Popular genres in literature
Workplace communication
Game studies
Literature of contemporary issues
Choose from more than 25 available options, or create your own in consultation with your advisor!
ETC Major Map
First Year
Second Year
Third Year
Fourth Year
Take the courses you need
ENGL 1120
ENGL 2002
ENGL 2410
Electives
Core Module 1
Core Module 2
Electives
Core Module 3
Core Module 4
Electives
TCH COM 5620
TCH COM 4410
Electives
Gain relevant experience
Explore our
major and career options
in consultation with your advisor
Join a
design team or student organization
to build your resume and social network
Complete an
internship or co-op
to gain applied professional experience
Take the lead
on workplace or extracurricular projects relevant to your career goals
Prepare for the future
Attend the career fair
as an observer to help plan for the future
Take note of
shortcomings in your resume
and plan strategically to gain the kinds of experiences you want
Consider applying for the GTP to
earn a Master's degree in Technical Communication
with just one additional year of study
Apply for
graduation
------
Participate in the career fair
to jumpstart your job search
Minors & Certificates
Customize your degree with a minor or certificate to gain specialized expertise and expand your career opportunities. Explore your minor choices to find the best fit for your goals, and consult our advisor to ensure a smooth addition.
Minors in ETC
Undergraduate Certificate in Technical Writing
We also offer a graduate minor and certificate in technical writing.
Graduate Certificate in Professional Communication
Graduate Minor in Technical Communication
Careers in ETC
Our program offers a foundation in technical communication skills, followed by pathways that meet student interests and goals. Nationwide, media and communication occupations project 104,800 openings per year across roles like
writers, content creators, and PR specialists​
. Technical writers (a key role in technical communication) are seeing consistent demand: the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
projects 4,500 openings each year between 2024-2034
. Median salaries in these fields are strong, with technical writers earning around $91,000 annually​! This indicates healthy career outcomes for graduates in this domain.
4+1 Grad Track Pathway
Students must complete at least 120 credit hours and maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA to earn a Bachelor of Science in English & Technical Communication. These requirements are separate from any credit received for basic ROTC.
4 + 1 Grad Track Pathway
Student Organizations
English and technical communication students are encouraged to join a student organization such as Sigma Tau Delta, an honor society for English majors and minors and those interested in English language and literature, or the student chapter of the Society for Technical Communication, which is the only chapter of its kind in the Eastern half of Missouri.
Student Organizations & Publications
ETC Panoply
Each year, our department publishes
Panoply
, a newsletter highlighting updates on students, faculty, and alumni.
Editions from 2012 and 2014–2018 were designed by students in ENGL/TCH COM 2540 Layout and Design. Editions from 2021 and 2023 editions were created by students in TCH COM 5540 Advanced Layout and Design. Editions from 2019 and 2020 were designed by staff from the S&T Office of Publications.
Department Newsletter
Additional Resources
Change of Major
Considering a change of major? Learn about the requirements and steps to transition smoothly to a major that’s right for you.
Add/Drop Class
Need to adjust your schedule? The add/drop period lets you change courses. Be sure to consult your academic advisor to align with your requirements.
Start Process
Faculty and Staff
Faculty and Staff
Our faculty and staff are dedicated to your success, offering guidance and resources to help you thrive in English and Technical Communications.
Meet Us