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Undergraduate Study

Applying to the STC and STA Concentrations

STC vs. STA...

What are the differences between the STC and STA majors? Though the degree itself takes its name from the larger rubric of "Scientific and Technical Communication," students may choose between two 128-credit streams within the degree.

  • the B.A. in Scientific and Technical Arts (STA)
  • the B.S. in Scientific and Technical Communication (STC)

STC majors tend to take more math and science courses. STA majors typically take more design and multimedia courses. However, both STA and STC majors have writing and design requirements, providing a strong foundation in design literacies. Both STC and STA majors complete an emphasis area (a series of classes taken in a different field of study designed to increase their awareness of the discourses native to the fields they intend to work in). What students learn in their emphasis area helps them become better, more savvy technical communicators. Increasingly, employers are on the lookout for technical communicators who can show experience in a technical area. STC/STA majors can select emphasis courses from any academic program at Michigan Tech.

Math and Science Requirements for the Two Majors

  • STC and STA majors must take at least one Math course above 1000 level
    (MA1020 is recommended)
  • STC and STA majors must take at least one Lab Science course

Other Requirements and Options

  • STA majors must take at least one year of a Modern Language
  • STC & STA majors may also declare a Minor (Humanities offers Philosophy, Communication, or Journalism)
  • STC & STA majors may also seek Certificates in Media, Modern Languages, or Writing

Applying

Students applying to the Scientific & Technical Communication major, should contact Dr. Ann Brady to ensure they satisfy admissions requirements to the STC program.

Applicants to STC/STA must have at least a 2.2 cumulative GPA and should demonstrate strong composing skills. Students should bring the following documents with them when meeting with the program director:

  • A filled-out Change of Major authorization form
  • A copy of your Unofficial Transcript from the Registrar's Office
  • A typed, 250-word statement on why you want to enter the STC program
  • Two strong samples of your past composing work (marked papers from Perspectives or Revisions courses are acceptable)

Once admitted to the program, take the Change of Major Authorization Form and your transcripts to STC Advisor Evie Johnson for signature. Once signed, take the form to the Registrar's Office before the end of the add period for the term.

© 2008 Humanities Department, Michigan Technological University