The information economy: Educational opportunities for industry-based professionals

The information economy requires skilled industry-based professionals who can communicate effectively and contribute to a global economy. Moreover, many industries require innovative strategic leaders with solid theoretical and research grounding. Such leaders draw on their education and experience to develop strategically aligned technical communication practices for specific domains and industries. What opportunities are available for industry professionals to pursue advanced degrees while continuing to work in the field? We examined 267 master’s and PhD-level programs in technical communication and related disciplines worldwide to determine if these programs were accessible to professionals seeking to further their education and careers. This research indicates that some graduate programs reach a wider demographic through greater flexibility and technological investments. Nevertheless, our research revealed potential gaps in the availability of PhD educational opportunities for industry professionals who must work full time while attending school. We identified opportunities to close these gaps through expanded distance learning, changes in residency requirements, improved international articulation, and alternatives to dissertations. This paper describes the research methodology used, the current state of graduate and PhD educational opportunities available for industry professionals, the challenges we encountered during our research, and additional research opportunities.