Appalachian State University
English (BA) – Rhetoric and Technical Writing
Application Deadlines
Location
Boone campus
Hickory campus
Got credits?
Learn about transferring credits to App State
Master a skill that every organization needs.
Technical writing focuses on the analysis, production and research of clear and effective written, oral and visual communication.
The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in English-Rhetoric and Technical Writing degree program at App State is one of the few of its kind in North Carolina, preparing students with communication fundamentals as well as experience with writing web content, along with print, technical and science writing.
Management professionals state that the top need for organizations is professionals with communication skills. Organizations ranging from engineering and technical operations to human services are looking for people who can communicate effectively.
Students who study Rhetoric and Technical Writing go on to a broad range of careers in communications and information design (examples include public relations and marketing, editing, news writing and multimedia journalism, internal and corporate communications, grant and public policy writing, social media strategy), including related fields where expertise in rhetoric, argument and plain language are valued — such as law, medicine and nonprofit advocacy.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 7% job growth through 2032 for technical writers.
A ‘Best College’ for 2025
The Princeton Review named App State among the best schools in the U.S. and Southeast for 2025.
Top 3 in innovation, undergraduate teaching
U.S. News & World Report has recognized App State as a top three school for innovation and the high quality of its undergraduate instruction for eight consecutive years.
A ‘Best College’ for value
App State’s quality, affordability and student outcomes place it among the nation’s 2024 best schools for value, according to Money.com
Elevate Your Education
Courses
Minors
A minor is required for this major. Popular choices include:
- Communication Studies
- Marketing
- General Business
- History
- Foreign Languages
- Global Studies
- Psychology
- Anthropology
- Philosophy
- Sociology
Transferring Credits
Learn about App State’s credit transfer process, and use our Transfer Equivalency Course Search tool to determine how your courses may transfer to App State.
General Education
With courses in history, natural and social sciences and humanities, App State’s General Education Program will reshape your outlook on learning and provide a foundational skill set that will prepare you for any career.
Accelerated Master’s
You can begin your graduate studies as an undergraduate and earn your master’s degree in as little as one year.
Careers and Mountaineers
Where can an App State degree take you? Anywhere you want to go! Our passionate and engaged alumni become leaders in their communities and chosen professions.
Careers
- Author
- Biographer
- Book Reviewer
- Columnist
- Communications Coordinator
- Content Creator
- Copy Editor
- Copywriter
- Correspondent
- Creative Director
- Critic
- Editor
- English Instructor
- ESL Teacher
- Fundraiser
- Grant Writer
- Lobbyist
- Marketing Coordinator
- Medical Scribe
- Policy Writer
- Speech Writer
- Public Relations Representative
- Reporter
- Radio/TV Copywriter
- Research Assistant
- Science Writer
- Playwright
- Professor
- Publicity Director
- Web Content Writer
Some of these roles may require education beyond a bachelor’s degree.
Career information resource
App State’s Career Development Center
Services provided by the Career Development Center include resume reviews, career coaching, job and internship search assistance, and other tools for you to achieve life and professional success.
More to Explore at App State
Fund Your Education
Numerous scholarship and financial aid opportunities are available to help fund your App State education. Learn more about scholarships and financial aid.
International Experience
Work outside your cultural boundaries. Learn more.
Real-world Internships
Gain firsthand experience while earning your degree. Learn more
Find Your Community
Get inspired and get involved by joining App State clubs and organizations, such as the English Club. Learn more
Honors College
Develop high-level creative thinking and research skills. Learn more and check out the departmental honors program.
Apply
Are you ready to become a Mountaineer? Take the next step, apply for admission to App State and elevate your future success.
Admissions questions? Contact us.
Connect
Visit Campus
Explore App State’s campuses in Boone and Hickory and learn more about what life is like as a Mountaineer.
Attend an information session to get to know App State’s people and programs.
Admissions Counselor
Have questions related to the App State admissions process? Our admissions counselors are here to help.