Career roadmap
How to Become a Technical Writer
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a technical writer, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a technical writer: (1) build writing skills, (2) learn a technical field, (3) create samples, (4) get an entry-level role, (5) advance. Most people need about 4 years or technical background plus writing training. BLS lists “bachelor's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a technical writer
Build writing skills
Practice clear, concise writing.
Learn a technical field
Software, engineering or healthcare.
Create samples
Write guides and docs.
Get an entry-level role
Documentation or support writing.
Advance
Become a senior writer or documentation manager.
Education and training requirements
A bachelor’s degree in English, communications, journalism or a technical field is typical, plus knowledge of the subject area.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Bachelor's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | Less than 5 years |
| On-the-job training | Short-term on-the-job training |
| Typical training time | 4 years or technical background plus writing training |
Certifications and licenses
- Certified Professional Technical Communicator (CPTC): Society for Technical Communication credential.
- Technical writing certificate: University or online programs.
- API documentation training: Courses for developer docs.
- Writing portfolio: Samples of documentation.
Skills to build now
Start with technical writing, information architecture, and editing, and practice clarity and curiosity. Learning the technical writer vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Documentation Associate: Support writers.
- Technical Writer: Write documentation.
- Senior Technical Writer: Lead doc projects.
- Documentation Manager: Lead content strategy.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Technical Writer training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Do technical writers need a degree?
Usually, though experience counts.
How long does it take to become a technical writer?
Most people need about 4 years or technical background plus writing training of training. A bachelor’s degree in English, communications, journalism or a technical field is typical, plus knowledge of the subject area.
Do you need a degree to be a technical writer?
Usually. BLS lists a bachelor’s degree as typical, but many writers move in from engineering, IT or support roles with strong writing samples.
What certifications are available for technical writers?
Common credentials include Certified Professional Technical Communicator (CPTC), Technical writing certificate, API documentation training, and Writing portfolio. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 27-3042 (Technical writers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Technical writers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.