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, copy editing, line editing, structural editing, content editing and collaborating with writers. You’ll develop the expertise to transform a rough draft — be it web copy, book-length manuscript or short-form media — into polished work. 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 need to make it happen.

DESIGNED FOR

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

See Requirements

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
• Grammatical rules and how to utilize standard and customized style guides
• Online editing 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 and carry out an editorial project with a working writer 

CHOOSE THE RIGHT FORMAT FOR YOU

This certificate program is part of Career Accelerator, which offers a variety of flexible learning formats online and in the classroom. Learn more about our self-paced online option and accelerated classroom format.

APPLY FOR A SCHOLARSHIP

You may be eligible to apply for a UWPCE Certificate 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. See the scholarship page for eligibility information and application instructions.