Starting a career as a technical writer - Is a M.S. worth it? (credit, sample)

[futuretechwriter]

I’m looking for some advice on how to build a career in technical writing. I’m 24 years old and I have a Bachelor of Science in Biology. I minored in Writing in college as well, and have taken many English courses. For the past year I’ve worked at an Engineering firm doing mostly admin work, but I help with reports as well. I’ve helped to compile many technical reports, inspection reports, and other documents that count as technical writing experience. Unfortunately, many of these are for confidential clients so I haven’t built much of a portfolio.

Writing has always been my greatest skill. I want to build a career as a technical writer, and I think so far I’m on the right track. My Bio degree hasn’t helped much, but I think it would be a huge asset if I went on to get a Masters. Which brings me to my next question: Should I pursue an advanced degree in technical writing, or try to get started with my current experience?

I’ve been researching online Master’s programs in Technical Writing, and this one in particular caught my eye: http://www.uwstout.edu/programs/mstpc/overview.cfm I would earn a M.S. in Technical and Professional Communication (MSTPC). The entire program is online, and it appears I could complete the degree in one year, assuming I took 15 credit hours each semester. Would this degree be a huge asset for starting a career as a technical writer?

Please let me know if there are better online degree programs out there. Is a M.A. or M.S. more beneficial for this field? If you could link me to other programs that might be better options I would really appreciate it.

I believe my current job is a “baby step” because I honestly don’t get my hands on too much technical material. I get to help out once in a while, but it’s getting my feet wet at best. I detest most aspects of this job and want to move on to something with better pay and more mental stimulation.

I’ve heard of sites such as Upwork where you can do freelance work. I’m thinking about making an account later and seeing what that’s all about. I’m very interested in doing freelance writing, and I know I could get started with this while maintaining my current job. I’ve been thinking about doing some freelance work on the side. Ideally I would like to work remotely, and I know this is common for technical writers.

I’m thinking of working until the end of the year, then enrolling full time in a Master’s program for Technical writing. I’m a diligent hoarder of money, so this will be a definite option for me. My only issue is I don't have much technical writing I can share (due to confidentiality issues at work). I've written research reports in college, could I include these in my portfolio for a college application? Some of the schools ask for writing samples.

What I’m looking to get out of this thread:

1. Advice from people who have successful careers as technical writers. How did you get started? Is it easy to find work?

2. Is an advanced degree worth it, or would I be better off with my current credentials?

3. How are the prospects for freelance, remote work in this field?

4. Some links to good online degrees in this field

Thank you so much for your time!

[Serious Conversation]

Why not get a technical degree and then segue the writing part into that?

[futuretechwriter]

Originally Posted by Serious Conversation

Why not get a technical degree and then segue the writing part into that?

Honestly I'm open to all suggestions, but this is the most appealing one I've found so far. I'm not really interested in pursuing an advanced degree in Bio. My undergrad degree was something I was pressured into by parents, and luckily I was able to pick up the pieces and pay off my loans. I was resentful for a while, but I realized you can't cry over spilled milk and the degree isn't worthless. I've thought about a M.S. in Information Technology as well.

[MollyMiami]

Hmm... I wonder if I would have better luck in the writing forum.