Newspaper Editors

High School

English is the most important school subject for any future editor. You must have a strong grasp of the English language, including vocabulary, grammar, and punctuation, and you must be able to write well in various styles. Foreign language classes will also be useful because there are an increasing number of foreign language publications in the United States. Study journalism and take communications-related courses. Work as a writer or editor for your school paper or yearbook. Computer classes that teach word processing software and how to navigate the Internet will be invaluable in your future research. You absolutely must learn to type. If you cannot type accurately and rapidly, you will be at an extreme disadvantage.

Other subjects are important, too. Editors have knowledge in a wide range of topics, and the more you know about history, geography, math, the sciences, the arts, and culture, the better a writer and editor you will be.

Postsecondary Training

Look for a school with strong journalism and communications programs. Many programs require you to complete two years of liberal arts studies before concentrating on journalism studies. Journalism courses include reporting, writing, and editing; press law and ethics; journalism history; and photojournalism. Advanced classes include feature writing, investigative reporting, and graphics. Some schools offer internships for credit.

When hiring, newspapers look closely at a candidate's extracurricular activities, putting special emphasis on internships, school newspaper and freelance writing and editing, and part-time newspaper work (stringing). Typing, computer skills, and knowledge of both printing and digital production processes are helpful.

Certification

Several colleges and universities offer programs in which students can earn certificates after taking a certain number of classes about topics such as copy editing and proofreading. Schools that offer these programs include the Columbia University, New York University, Pace University, City College of New York, University of Chicago, and the University of Denver. A full list of colleges and universities that offer these programs can be found at http://bookjobs.com/publishing-programs. Additionally, the Poynter Institute for Media Studies and ACES: The Society for Editing offer certificates in editing. The Poynter Institute for Media Studies also offers more than 100 interactive journalism courses. Visit https://www.poynter.org/shop for more information.

Other Education or Training

Professional associations such as the ACES: The Society for Editing, Association of Alternative Newsmedia, Editorial Freelancers Association, and Investigative Reporters and Editors offer webinars, conference seminars, and other continuing education opportunities. Topics include writing, editing, proofreading, and developing a freelance business. Contact these organizations for more information.