Free Online Technical Writing Courses from Top Universities

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There are six online technical writing courses offered for free by top universities, including the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Utah State University (USU). These courses provide instruction writing methods for various technical fields, such as healthcare, engineering and science.
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Free Technical Writing Courses

Individuals who wish to learn technical writing can find a range of free, online courses from two leading universities. Courses touch on topics that involve scientific writing, grant writing and computer threats.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Several undergraduate and graduate courses are available for study using MIT's OpenCourseWare. A class that's open to both undergrads and grads allows students to read and practice writing to hone their skills for academic and professional environments. Another dual program-level course explores conveying technical information to different audiences. Students can also learn how to write grant proposals and conference papers, though no professor feedback is provided.

Utah State University (USU)

Online learners at this school can take a course that covers the technical skills needed to work in the writing industry. Course topics include everything from mainframes to computer security threats.

Free Online Technical Writing Courses at a Glance

Course & School Program Level Format Assignments Quizzes & Exams Downloadable
Advanced Workshop in Writing for Social Sciences and Architecture course from MIT Undergraduate/Graduate Text Yes No Yes
Advanced Workshop in Writing for Science and Engineering (ELS) course from MIT Undergraduate/Graduate Text Yes No Yes
Introduction to Technical Communication: Perspectives on Medicine and Public Health course from MIT Undergraduate Text Yes No Yes
Intro to Tech Communication course from MIT Undergraduate Text Yes No Yes
Science and Engineering Writing for Phase II course from MIT Undergraduate Text Yes No Yes
Technology for Professional Writers course from Utah State University Graduate Text No No Yes

Popular Schools

  • Online Programs Available
    1. Grand Canyon University

    Program Options

    Master's
      • M.A. in Communication with an Emphasis in Education
      • M.A. in Communication with an Emphasis in Education
    Bachelor's
      • B.A. in Professional Writing for New Media
      • Bachelor of Arts in Communications with an Emphasis in Interpersonal Communication and Human Relationships
      • BA in Digital Film - Screenwriting
  • Online Programs Available
    2. Saint Leo University

    Program Options

    Master's
      • MA: Creative Writing - Poetry
  • Online Programs Available
    3. Liberty University

    Program Options

    Doctorate
      • PHD: Communication
    Certificate
      • CTG: Communication
  • East Lansing, MI

    Michigan State University

  • Online Programs Available
    5. Penn Foster High School

    Program Options

    High School Diploma
      • HS Diploma
  • Campus and Online Programs
    6. Full Sail University

    Program Options

    Bachelor's
      • Bachelor of Fine Arts - Creative Writing for Entertainment
  • Ames, IA

    Iowa State University

  • Harrisonburg, VA

    James Madison University

  • University of Maryland Global Campus

Featured Schools

The schools and programs listed below are popular educational options, and tuition varies based on program and location

Grand Canyon University

  • M.A. in Communication with an Emphasis in Education
  • B.A. in Professional Writing for New Media
  • Bachelor of Arts in Communications with an Emphasis in Interpersonal Communication and Human Relationships

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Saint Leo University

  • MA: Creative Writing - Poetry

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Liberty University

  • PHD: Communication
  • CTG: Communication

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Penn Foster High School

  • HS Diploma

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Full Sail University

  • Bachelor of Fine Arts - Creative Writing for Entertainment

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