Job Description
A newspaper or magazine editor are responsible for the style and content of the publication which will include layout, graphics and editorial, they will make sure that the production process runs smoothly and that publications are printed on time.
Entry Requirements
You could get into this job through:
University
You'll usually start by doing a degree in English, journalism or media studies.
You're likely to need a degree or postgraduate qualification and a high level of specialist subject knowledge if you want to work for a specialist publication like a medical or scientific journal.
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
Click here to search for a suitable course.
Other Routes
You could take a proofreading or editing course, like the ones offered by the National Council for the Training of Journalists, the Society for Editors and Proofreaders and The Publishing Training Centre.
Work
You can start as a reporter or journalist with a regional newspaper or magazine and work your way up. There's a lot of competition for jobs so you may have an advantage if you've got a relevant degree.
Career Tips
You'll need to get some experience before applying for your first job in publishing. To build up your experience you can:
- volunteer for student and community newspapers
- keep an online blog
- have an online presence on sites such as Twitter
- submit articles and reviews to local papers or websites
This is also a good way to develop contacts, as many jobs are not advertised.
You can find out more about becoming a newspaper and magazine editor from National Council for the Training of Journalists or about other editorial and media careers from Discover Creative Careers.
Required Skills
- A thorough knowledge of the English language
- Methodical
- The ability to concentrate
- Self motivation
- Able to work to deadlines
- Tact and diplomacy
- The ability to multi task
Salary Range
£30,000 to £80,000
