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During this programme, you will:  

• Develop knowledge and skills to prepare for a career as a technical writer. 

• Explore e-Learning theories, models, techniques and prominent issues.  

• Become proficient in essential multimedia software applications to develop e-learning courses and professional communications. 

• Manage complex writing and design projects. 

• Design and deliver clear, effective instructional materials. 

• Explore the role of graphics, layout, design, and cultural considerations in technical writing. 

• Achieve a technical writing qualification flexibly through self-directed learning and continuous assessment. 

Key Information:  

• Complete part-time over two years (four semesters) 

• Delivered online via the UL Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) 

• Modules taught during autumn and spring semesters 

• One 9 credit module completed per semester (total of four modules) 

• Assessed through continuous coursework (no end-of-semester exams) 

• Expected to log in to the VLE several times a week (flexible, not at fixed times) 

• Optional on-campus workshop available (materials also provided online) 

• No direct route from the Graduate Certificate to the MA Technical Communications and E-Learning 

• Apply for the MA to retain the option to graduate with a Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma, or MA 

You will learn through a blend of: 

• Lectures delivered via podcasts, with learning objects and other resources 

• Workshops and hands-on activities 

• Reflective practice and guided research 

• Regular feedback from faculty and peers through group work and assessments 

• Online chats, discussions, and peer-supported learning activities 

Year 1 

Autumn Semester 

• TW5211) students will explore audience analysis, writing style, typography, and document design. 

Spring Semester 

• TW5212) will explore ethical and legal issues in professional communication, as well as codes of practice, trends and relevant skills. 

Year 2 

Autumn Semester 

• EL6041) will explore the history of instructional design.  

Spring Semester 

• EL6072) Students taking this module will learn how to create storyboards and develop proposals for e-learning materials. They will also design and produce a digital resource. 

Books and journal articles needed for the course will be available online through the UL Glucksman Library.  

For more information on each module, you can search the faculty, school and module code on UL’s  

Additional Information: 

Delivery: 

• Starts on the first Monday in September.   

• All four modules are assessed online via continuous assessment (no compulsory on-campus attendance). 
  
• Occasional on-campus software workshops will be offered (max one day per semester). 

• Workshop attendance is optional; materials will be available online for all students. 

Additional costs: 

• Additional costs may include internet access and books (approx. 2 books per module). 

• Books and journal articles needed for the course will be available online through the UL Glucksman Library. 
  
• Use free limited-period trial versions of software tools for some assignments. 

• Access discounted devices, software, and services through  

Progression to MA Technical Communications and E-Learning: 

• No direct progression route offered from this Graduate Certificate to the MA Technical Communications and E-Learning. 

• Retain the option to graduate with a Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma and MA by applying directly for the MA in Technical Communication and E-Learning. 

• Option to exit the MA in Technical Communications and E-Learning with a Graduate Certificate after completing one academic year (two modules per semester) 

• Complete the programme in one academic year apply for the MA in Technical Communication and E-Learning 

• Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree ( Level 8,) with at least a second-class honours, grade 2 (2:2) in a relevant discipline or an approved equivalent qualification. 

• Prior experience working as a technical writer will be an advantage. 

Other Entry Considerations:  

We encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet the standard entry requirements, as long as you can show that you have the knowledge, skills, and experience needed for the programme.  

At UL, we value all kinds of learning and support different ways to qualify through our Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy. 

International students:  

• For details on country-specific qualifications visit postgraduate entry requirements for international students.  

Checklist of Documents: 

• *Academic transcripts and certificates
  • UL graduates only need to provide their student ID.
• Copy of your birth certificate or passport
• English translation of your qualifications and transcripts
• Copy of your CV 

English Language: 

• English Language Competency certificate
• For details on accepted language qualifications visit English Language Requirements 

Guidelines on Completing your Application  

• To make sure we can review your application quickly, please:
  • Upload all documents. Your application can’t be reviewed until we have all the documents on the checklist.
  • Title the documents you are uploading. For example, "Personal Statement", "Undergraduate Transcript", "Postgraduate Transcript", "English Language Certificate" etc.
• *If you are waiting to graduate, submit your application with the documents you have to date, you don’t need to have finished final exams before applying. 

EU - €900 per annum*

Non- EU - €2,600 per annum*

* Year 2 fees are subject to change 

Annual fees are billed by semester. Once registered, students may be eligible to apply for a monthly payment plan.  

Please note that international study visas are only available to students studying full-time in Ireland. This programme does not qualify for a study visa. 

Further information on fees and payment of fees is available from the website. All fee related queries should be directed to the Student Fees Office (Phone: +353 61 213 007 or email student.fees.office@ul.ie).  

Funding 

Find further information on funding and scholarships. 

This course can lead to the following sectors and careers:  

• Technical writing
• Editing
• Web design
• Technology journalism 

Testimonial - Technical Writing graduate certificate 

"I really enjoyed the Graduate Certificate in Technical Writing especially the delivery and content. Being based in the U.A.E., I wanted to do a course which was flexible, professional, recognised and of a high-quality standard – the Graduate Certificate was all these things. I found the lecturers and UL highly encouraging and supportive. I strongly recommend this course as a viable study option for anyone who wishes to study and upgrade their skills via a distance and flexible mode." 

Still Curious?  

The team regularly host and take part in webinars to support future students. If you would like to learn more or ask questions at an online information session, click below.     

Online Information Sessions