Master's in Technical Communication and Localization (TCLoc)

COVID-19 update: we are still accepting applications for the TCLoc master's degree. This distance-learning program remains unaffected by the current situation and will continue as scheduled. No physical presence is required to enroll, participate, or graduate with this degree.

An innovative continuing education program at the University of Strasbourg, the Master's in Technical Communication and Localization (TCLoc) is a flexible distance-learning program taught entirely in English. It is available in 4 different study options ranging from 12 to 24 months long, each providing students with access to the same courses taught by experts and professionals in TCLoc-related fields.

TCLoc is highly career-oriented and specifically designed for professionals looking to take their education and skills to the next level. Upon completing the program, TCLoc graduates simultaneously obtain a master’s degree from the University of Strasbourg, and the internationally recognized Technical Communicator (tekom) Professional Level certificate, issued by tekom Europe, the largest professional association for technical communication. This type of double-certification is unique in Europe and embodies an active and shared commitment to bridging the gap between industry and academia.

TCLoc was created for professionals and students with wide-ranging academic backgrounds and careers. The program focuses on five main fields: technical communication, localization, project management, web technologies, and visual communication. TCLoc graduates can, therefore, pursue careers in numerous expanding domains such as technical writing and editing, content creation and management for websites and documentation, localization engineering, and project management. The program constitutes the second year of a French master’s degree and is placed at level 7 of the European Qualifications Framework (300 ECTS credits). After completeing the program, it is possible for TCLoc graduates to pursue a PhD.

Admission Requirements

Candidates should possess:

• A degree equivalent to four years of higher education (corresponding to 240 ECTS credits in the European system) or
• At least three years of professional experience in a related field (see VAPP, detailed below)
• A high level of English
• Good computer literacy skills

The Validation of Acquired Professional and Personal Experience or VAPP (Validation des Acquis Professionnels et Personnels - Decree No. 2013-756 of 19 August 2013) allows students lacking the number of credits required for registration in the second year of a master’s degree the possibility to enroll. Thanks to this process, prospective students’ personal and professional experience may serve as a substitute for traditional university accreditation. If you are interested in applying for the TCLoc master's degree using VAPP, please contact us directly on our website (via the button at the beginning of the program description).

Application Process

Admissions are open throughout the year and applications are accepted on a rolling basis on the TCLoc website.  After an initial short-listing phase, selected applicants are invited for a video interview. There are two intakes per year, in July and in January. Class sizes are limited and intakes close when class capacity is reached.

Fees: 5660 euros for the 12- and 17-month study options (2020). 7360 euros for the 24-month study option (2020-2022).