How to become an editor
Follow these basic steps to become an editor:
- Earn a bachelor’s degree. A college education is typically required for most editing jobs. Employers usually prefer a bachelor’s degree in English, journalism, communications or another closely related degree. Within these programs, students usually learn sentence structure, editing skills and guidance on how to compose articles. Advanced courses may also be available that focus specifically on topics like the news or content editing.
- Obtain experience. This can, and should, be done as you are earning your degree. If you are still in high school, you can even gain editing experience by working on a high school newspaper. If you are in college, look for internship opportunities in the field you are interested in entering. An editorial internship will let you further explore the different industries and gain invaluable experience writing, editing and researching. You will also be able to use this opportunity to network with other professionals in the industry who may be able to help you find employment after college.
- Acquire supplemental skills. Editors are often expected to have other skills outside of editing, such as computer skills or an understanding of content management systems. You may want to consider taking classes or obtaining certifications in certain types of software, web content management or even graphic design to make yourself more appealing to potential employers. If you are interested in a career in television, you should take courses in television production or mass communications to enhance your qualifications for these competitive roles.
- Obtain professional experience.Entry-level positions are available in news organizations, online publications or publishing houses that will give aspiring editors the professional experience they need to launch their careers. Editors often begin their careers as writers or editorial assistants and then advance to positions like copy editors, managing editors or executive editors.
