About this Program
If you’ve ever admired a book for its story structure, a brilliant plot twist or the pace of a personal narrative, a developmental editor likely had a hand in it. Developmental editing, also called substantive editing, is when the editor provides feedback on the big picture of a written work. Developmental editors work closely with writers to help shape their work from the idea stage to publication.
In this one-course specialization, you’ll learn key developmental editing skills. You’ll work on projects you’ll encounter as a developmental editor, including manuscript reviews, book proposals, article pitches and letters to the author. Learn how current technologies such as generative AI enhance the essential work of developmental editors in book publishing, journalism and corporate communications. You’ll also develop the tools you’ll need to run a successful editing business, with a focus on creating a website and learning how to invoice, bid on contracts and manage clients.
Designed For
Writers, editors, publishers, literary agents and others seeking to expand their big-picture or developmental editing skills.
See Requirements
Admission Requirements
To apply, you must have:
Two years of college study
Some professional editing experience, or completion of the UW Certificate in Editing or a similar program
Identification of a manuscript to develop, such as a friend’s unpublished book manuscript or a self-published novel (the content can be fiction, nonfiction, academic or business focused; if you don’t have a manuscript, we’ll help you identify one at the start of class)
Want to make sure this specialization is the right fit for you? Use this evaluation matrix to help assess your skills.
Time Commitment
Including time in class, you should expect to spend about six to eight hours each week on coursework.
English Proficiency
If English is not your native language, you should have advanced English skills to enroll. To see if you qualify, make sure you are at the C1 level on the CEFR self-assessment grid . To learn more, see English Language Proficiency Requirements – Noncredit Programs .
International Students
Because this offering is 100% online, no visa is required and international students are welcome to apply. For more information, see Admission Requirements for International Students .
Technology Requirements
Access to a computer with a recent operating system (Windows or Mac)
Microsoft Word (2016 or later; not the web app)
Access to a printer and scanner or smartphone with a PDF-conversion app
High-speed internet connection
Earning the Certificate
You earn a certificate of completion by successfully completing all required courses. For more information, see Earning the Certificate .
▸ Explore More : Check out the Certificate in Editing or see all our programs for writers and editors .
Video Overview
Hear about the UW Specialization in Developmental Editing from instructor Matthew Bennett and discover how the program demystifies the craft by walking students through a full developmental edit.
Duration 02:42
Play
Skills You’ll Gain
Manuscript design
Story structure
Evaluation and consultation strategies
Business development
Writing coaching
Content development
Content management
Publishing sites
Invoicing best practices
Document preparation
Get Real-World Experience
Complete the developmental editing of a real, unpublished manuscript, beginning with the manuscript consultation, moving through several stages of editing and ending with the submission of the developed manuscript to the writer
Build the necessary business components (resume and website content) to enter the publishing industry as a professional developmental editor
EARN A DIGITAL BADGE
After successfully completing this program, you can claim a digital achievement badge that can be shared on LinkedIn and other social media sites. Learn more about digital badges .
Career Stats
12%
Projected growth in U.S. demand for content editing skills (2025–27)
22%
Projected growth in U.S. demand for editing skills (2025–27)
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 .