Okay so I have just recently graduated from high school and I need to start working towards a degree. I've realized that I would love nothing more than to write for a living, but there is no money to be made in it. So I want to do technical writing in order to support myself. Well I don't know where to go from here. I would like to eventually get degrees in English so I can fall back on teaching as an old coot, but at the same time I know that I need to have technical knowledge in order to do technical writing. The community college that I can afford doesn't offer English as a major but does offer degrees/certifications in computer programming/system networking, as well as a certificate in tech. writing. So here is the question for you tech writers, or anyone who may have advice: I know that I need the technical writing certification, but should I take the time to get a degree in computer information systems? Or should I just get a certification and move onto a real college to star on my BA in English? Any additional advice on Tech. writing or my over ambitiousness would also be appreciated. Thank You. Okay I should have been more clear with my question, sorry. I know that I'll need the certificate in tech writing, but should I take the time to get a degree in computer information or should I just get certified? Will I still be able to get hired?

All Answers To Questions

Start at your community college

It's as well to know about the subject you are writing about. As a Tech writer you are the interface between the engineers and the reader and if you don't have a good grasp of the content then the poor old target audience is in for a torrid time. So yes, do a technical degree and get the tech writing certificate.