


Writing Online Documentation
WCWP-40158
Writing Online Documentation
10 weeks | Online
As more print publications and manuals go online, it's vital to understand the similarities and differences between writing for print and writing for online delivery. Explore theories and practices for creating online documentation and learn how to structure and write material to be viewed online. This includes information and project design, differences between print and online delivery, and selecting the appropriate format and media. You will have ample opportunity to practice writing for online delivery and to work with some of the tools used for this purpose. We will write a variety of online documentation, which may include HTML, PDF, and online help.
Quarters Offered: Summer | Online
Prerequisite: None
Software: MS Word and Adobe Acrobat (Reader or Professional)
Note: Fulfills 3 units toward requirements for the Technical Communication Certificate. Non-certificate students may take this class.
Course Information
Course sessions
Section ID:
Class type:
This course is entirely web-based and to be completed asynchronously between the published course start and end dates. Synchronous attendance is NOT required.
You will have access to your online course on the published start date OR 1 business day after your enrollment is confirmed if you enroll on or after the published start date.
Textbooks:
No textbook required.
Policies:
- No refunds after: 7/11/2025
- 1st no meeting date: 9/1/2025
Note:
Schedule:
Instructor:
Elizabeth Herman

PhD, Business MA, English (Rhetoric, Composition, and Professional Communication) BA, Journalism
Elizabeth Herman teaches Project Management for Technical Communicators, Information Design for Communicators, Writing Online Documentation, and Tools for Technical Communicators for UC San Diego Extension's Technical Communication Certificate Program.
A long-time technical communicator, Liz currently works for a large non-profit research firm primarily focused on its healthcare work. Her project management work spans business development, operations, training, content management, communications, and outreach. Liz earned a PhD in Business from Walden University, an MA in English from Iowa State University, and a BA in Journalism from the University of Iowa.
Liz is a senior member of the Society for Technical Communication (STC), where she has served in various leadership roles in the Eastern Iowa and Washington DC chapters. She is currently serving as a Director at Large on STC’s Board of Directors. She is also an active member of the Project Management Institute and the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society. Liz is a certified Project Management Professional and a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt. She is also an Expert Level Certified Professional Technical Communicator.
When she’s not working or teaching, Liz enjoys spending time with her family, which includes her dachshund Mousse, and stand up paddling, playing golf, and reading (mostly non-fiction).