Most editors have at least one university degree and many editors have years of experience working for organisations that produce publications, where they have generally reaped the benefits of in-house training. Some editors have specific qualifications in language, linguistics, writing or editing. Editors can now be accredited. For more information on the accreditation process, see IPEd.
Formal courses or units in editing (at undergraduate and/or postgraduate level) are offered by many tertiary institutions. See Resources for courses in Western Australia and other states.
If you are thinking about starting up as a freelance editor, we advise that you get training and reliable business advice. Become an active member of your local society of editors to avoid the professional isolation faced by many freelancers.
Why should I join the Society?
Benefits of membership include:
- professional development opportunities at meetings run as workshops or with guest speakers
- networking at meetings and through the email mailing list
- listing in the freelance register to increase employment opportunities
- involvement, through the Society’s membership of IPEd, in national initiatives affecting the editing profession.
