• Education Prerequisites: Most online certificate programs in editing are offered at the master’s level and will require at least a bachelor’s degree.
• Professional Prerequisites: None
• Average Program Length: 12 months(full time); 24 months (part time)

Online editing certificate programs are designed to prepare students with the skills they need to identify and ameliorate errors in written communication. A working knowledge of proper grammar, as well as proofreading, copy editing, style, and structural editing skills are all important in this field. Individuals already employed in publishing, or a related field, or those interested in entering the industry for the first time can polish these skills though editing certificate programs. The flexibility of an online program allows students to continue working and balancing the responsibilities of their family and personal lives while continuing their education.

Completing an Online Certificate Program in Editing

The best online certificate programs in editing will include topics in grammar, style, proofreading, and structural editing. However, in today’s job market, courses in copyediting for the web and industry software are also important. Course work will consist primarily of editing exercises, but some tests and quizzes are likely to be required. Classes will usually be delivered in a general survey or workshop format.

Online college certificate programs are designed with working adults in mind and typically run asynchronously. This means students do not have to log in at a specific time to attend class. Rather, they are free to log in to the virtual classroom and work on their assignments at any time that fits in with their personal scheduling needs. Online discussion boards, electronic file submissions, video chat, and virtual-meeting technologies make it possible for students to meet all of the requirements for an editing certificate program online.

What Your Online Certificate in Editing Can Do for You

Online editing certificate programs are designed to prepare graduates with the technical skills they need to pursue careers in copyediting. Some of the most common potential employers for editors include book, newspaper, and periodical publishers. The growing prevalence of Internet marketing has also created jobs in the field. Typically only a bachelor’s degree is required for entry-level positions in editing, but online certificates can be an added advantage in a competitive job market.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts relatively little growth in the number of jobs for editors from 2010 to 2020. This is due largely in part to cutbacks in print media. However, developments in online media will provide a better outlook for candidates comfortable working with digital tools. In 2011, the reported mean annual salary for editors was $60,490, editors working in computer manufacturing earned the highest salaries at an average of $91,710 per year, according to the BLS. However, most jobs were found with newspapers, periodicals, book publishers, and information services companies. Please note that these statistics are only estimates. Actual job openings and pay rates will vary based on a number of factors such as location, level of education, experience, and the specific employer.

Online Certificate Programs by School

	Herzing University - Herzing's online certificate program offers the flexibility, personalization, and support you need to succeed in today's ever-changing job market. Discover Herzing's hands-on coursework, experienced faculty, and student-first approach which sets them apart from other online universities.
	Ultimate Medical Academy - Get personalized attention with UMA. One-on-one tutoring, pre-interview coaching, job search assistance, alumni services—they’re all included in Ultimate Medical Academy’s competitively priced tuition. As a nationally accredited school, we provide quality career training online and at our two campuses in the Tampa Bay area of Florida. Let’s talk about your needs, your career goals and how UMA can help you succeed. Gainful employment information can be found at ultimatemedical.edu/gainful-employment.pdf and includes information on tuition, loan debt, completion, placement and occupations.
	Penn Foster Career School - Penn Foster Career School offers over 85 online career diploma and certificate programs that can help students prepare for a career path in some of today’s fastest growing fields. If you are looking for training in allied health, business, education, or the trades, then Penn Foster Career School is a great choice. Penn Foster Career School is regionally accredited by the Commission on Secondary Schools of the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and nationally accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission.