Certificate in Editing

Improve the Quality of Any Content

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Program Details

  • Location: Online
  • Duration: 8 months
  • Times: Weekends, Flexible
  • Cost: $3,735

Next start date:

July 8, 2024

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Talk to an Enrollment Coach

About this Program


The writer and editor Arthur Plotnick famously said, “You write to communicate to the hearts and minds of others what’s burning inside you, and we edit to let the fire show through the smoke.” If you have a passion for making written copy shine, then you’re an editor at heart, and our three-course certificate program can help you channel that passion into a profession.

In this program, we’ll use American English to explore key techniques for developmental editing, copyediting, line editing, structural editing, content editing and collaborating with writers. You’ll develop the expertise to transform a rough draft — be it web copy, a book-length manuscript or short-form media — into a polished piece. Whether you want to edit your own writing, work for someone else or launch an editorial business, you’ll gain the skills and confidence you'll need to achieve your goals.

▸ Related Article: How to Become an Editor

▸ Related Article: Programs for Writers and Editors

DESIGNED FOR

Anyone interested in becoming a professional editor or advancing in the field.

For those getting started in the editing field, or who want a foundation in proofreading, we offer the Proofreading Essentials course. More experienced editors might consider our Specialization in Developmental Editing. See all related programs.

See Requirements

Video Overview

Hear from instructor Ingrid Emerick about the Certificate in Editing at the University of Washington and how it can prepare you to enter the growing field of editing.

Duration: 02:25

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN

  • How to edit in American English for different audiences and content types, including academic documents, corporate communications, web publications, fiction and narrative nonfiction
  • Grammar rules and how to use style manuals and customized style guides
  • Online editing systems and content management tools and best practices
  • Characteristics of different professional environments and strategies for determining the best fit for you

GET HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE

  • Use Microsoft Word editing tools and PDF reader tools
  • Develop an editorial project of your choosing and work with a writer to complete it  

APPLY FOR A SCHOLARSHIP

You may be eligible to apply for a UW Certificate Scholarship or Rotary Scholarship to cover most of the costs of this program. Scholarships are awarded based on financial need and the potential of the program to positively impact your career. For more information, see the Scholarships page.

Career Stats

52%

Alumni working in field

Top Employers

Amazon, University of Washington, Girl Friday Productions, Boeing, King County Library System, Microsoft

21%

Projected job growth for editors in Washington state (2018-2028)

$67,380

Average salary for editors in Washington state

digital badge example

EARN DIGITAL BADGES

You can earn a digital achievement badge for successfully completing this certificate program, as well as a separate badge for each course. These badges can be shared on LinkedIn and other social media sites. Learn more about digital badges.

OUR ENROLLMENT COACHES ARE HERE TO HELP

Connect with an enrollment coach to learn more about this offering. Or if you need help finding the right certificate, specialization or course for you, reach out to explore your options.

Program Overview

Complete the courses listed below to earn the certificate. You may be able to take individual courses without enrolling in the certificate program; check the course pages for details.

Learning Formats

Online, Group-Paced

Online, Group-Paced

Start and finish your program with the same group of students, with frequent opportunities to interact with your instructors and classmates along the way. Courses are 100% online, with set due dates for assignments and one scheduled class meeting for each course.

Blended (Classroom + Online)

Blended (Classroom + Online)

Enjoy a blend of in-person classes and online study. You’ll learn with the same group of students throughout the program, getting ample opportunity to connect with each other and your instructors. Learn More »

Program Sessions

Online, Group-Paced

Blended (Classroom + Online)

Closed Sessions

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