Explore jobs
Find specific jobs
Explore careers
Explore professions
Best companies
Explore companies
This question is about copy editor.
Do you need a degree to be a copy editor?
No, you do not need a degree to be a copy editor. However, most publishing houses or newspapers require a bachelor's degree in journalism, English, or communications. In some cases, having enough work or project experience can help someone without a degree land an entry-level position or pick up work as a freelance copy editor.
Copy editors are usually graduates of related degrees like journalism or English. This is because they need to study grammar and language extensively, and they are also often familiar with certain proofreading symbols and styles.
Without a degree, a prospective copy editor must develop a strong foundation in the rules of the language and be familiar with the grammar, syntax, and punctuation, and spelling rules.
Consider starting by offering free editing services and asking the people whose works you edit for comments about your editing skills. This trains you to look at work with a critical eye and develops your communication and interpersonal skills.
Those two skills are essential when you become an editor because you almost always deal with people.
Consider applying for entry-level beta reader or proofreader positions once you have some relevant editing experience under your belt. From these roles, you can gain further experience that will help you to start your career as a copy editor.
Choose from 10+ customizable resume templates
Zippia allows you to choose from different easy-to-use templates, and provides you with expert advice. Using the templates, you can rest assured that the structure and format of your resume is top notch. Choose a template with the colors, fonts & text sizes that are appropriate for your industry.
