Online Bachelor of Science in Technical Communication – Data Visualization

Data visualization plays a critical role in increasing access to information. When you pursue a Bachelor of Science in technical communication with a concentration in data visualization online from Arizona State University, you learn about how data management, data analysis and graphic design play a role in communication across industries. Whether you’re looking to shift careers or broaden your professional competencies, this data visualization concentration provides you with a versatile and valued skill set.

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Quick facts

Next start date:

Next start date: 01/08/2024


Total classes:

Total classes: 40

Weeks per class:

Weeks per class: 7.5

Total credit hours:

Total credit hours: 120

Degree questions, answered.

Have questions about the Technical Communication – Data Visualization (BS)? Fill out this form and we’ll get in touch!

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Why earn a data visualization degree concentration?

Earn a data visualization degree concentration to join a field with high demand for visual communicators. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, technical communication jobs are projected to grow 12% from 2020 to 2030, which is much quicker than the average rate.

Additionally, a data visualization concentration is unique because it focuses on increasing universal access to data using visual design techniques. The three primary benefits of a data visualization degree concentration are:

  • Career opportunities.
    • New skills increase your marketability and may open doors for career opportunities in the public, private and nonprofit sectors.
  • Personal development.
    • Learn how to independently analyze and scrutinize sources of data, including publicly available datasets.
  • Professional competencies.
    • Understanding the theory of data management allows you to manage, normalize, create and visualize many types of data using best practices. 
    • Gaining knowledge about graphic design and visual communication principles enables you to design infographics, informational posters and other media that increase accessibility to information.

If you’re interested in exploring other aspects of technical communication, you may also consider the following ASU Online programs:

What skills will I learn in this technical communication degree?

 

This technical communication degree provides a foundation in technical writing, with a focus on visual data communication. No technical background? No problem. This data visualization degree concentration allows you to gain skills in graphic design, data visualization and data analysis without prior technical knowledge. You’ll also learn about the structure of digital information and all facets of data management. Expect to develop capabilities related to:

  • Analyzing data.
  • Analyzing media. 
  • Data creation. 
  • Data forecasting. 
  • Data visualization.
  • Infographic development. 

With little programming necessary, this data visualization degree concentration utilizes tools readily available to all ASU Online students, including Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Access and Adobe Illustrator.

How important is data visualization?

 

Data visualization and technical communication are integral parts in driving strategic decisions across industries. Data is only valuable if it can be understood by key decision-makers. As a result, data visualization skills are highly sought after by employers. This data visualization degree concentration prepares you to organize and present data in appealing visuals, ultimately making information easy to understand for wide audiences.

Does my data visualization degree concentration say 'online'?

No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.” That’s because ASU Online students learn from the same faculty and receive the same course content as in-person students receive.

Your concentration in data visualization will appear on both your diploma and transcripts.

Data visualization degree concentration courses

In this data visualization degree concentration, you'll take courses focused on data analysis, creation and visualization. Your courses will also include practical applications of graphic design and data analysis. Courses include:


TWC 301: Fundamentals of Writing for Digital Media (L)


TWC 401: Fundamentals of Technical Communication (L)


TWC 411: Principles of Visual Communication (L)


TWC 421: Principles of Web Authoring (L)


TWC 431: Principles of Technical Editing


TWC 312: Introduction to Visual Culture


TWC 314: Data Visualization Tools and Techniques


TWC 413: Managing and Analyzing Data


What can I do with a data visualization degree concentration?

This data visualization degree concentration prepares you for a variety of technical communication roles. In addition to writing and content opportunities, you’ll also be equipped to step into visual data-driven roles across industries. Possible career paths include, but are not limited to:

Computer Systems Analyst


Growth: 9.6 %
Salary: $102,240

Data Analyst


Growth: -1.7 %
Salary: $48,880

Data Management Specialist


Growth: 10.0 %
Salary: $134,870

Document Management Specialist


Growth: 9.7 %
Salary: $98,740

Market Research Analyst


Growth: 13.4 %
Salary: $68,230

Technical Writer


Growth: 6.9 %
Salary: $79,960

Learn from top-tier faculty in technical communication

Faculty in the College of Integrative Sciences and Arts are deeply committed to exploration in their fields of work. Many of our faculty and staff are recognized both nationally and internationally for their achievements.

  • American Educational Research Association fellows. 
  • American Psychological Association fellows. 
  • Fulbright scholars. 
  • Numerous achievement awards in fields from psychology to writing.

Learn from top-tier faculty in technical communication

Faculty in the College of Integrative Sciences and Arts are deeply committed to exploration in their fields of work. Many of our faculty and staff are recognized both nationally and internationally for their achievements.

  • American Educational Research Association fellows. 
  • American Psychological Association fellows. 
  • Fulbright scholars. 
  • Numerous achievement awards in fields from psychology to writing.

Technical communication degree admission requirements

I am a future

You are considered a first-year student for application purposes if you have not attended college at all, or have fewer than 12 transferable credit hours (with a minimum 2.50 cumulative GPA).

1. Review competency requirements

2. Review other admission requirements

3. Complete online application

4. File your FAFSA

5. Request ACT or SAT scores

Don't meet admission requirements?

You can still gain general admission to most online programs at ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.

To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if Earned Admission is right for you.

*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.

Don't meet admission requirements?

You can still gain general admission to most online programs at ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.

To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if Earned Admission is right for you.

*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.

Study at a globally recognized university

ASU is a global university recognized for its commitment to innovation, research and high-quality academic programs. Our university has been recognized with peer-reviewed honors from U.S. News & World Report.

#1


in innovation for 9 consecutive years, ahead of Stanford and MIT.

Top 10


best online bachelor’s programs.

Top 10%


best global universities.

80%


of graduates reported their experiences at ASU inspired them to explore new career opportunities.

Tuition calculator

Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.

Tuition calculator

Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.

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