English for a Career in Editing/Publishing

English majors learn a range of skills that can serve them well when working in the publishing industry:

  1. The ability to read closely, with attention to textual details;
  2. Critical thinking and analytical aptitude;
  3. Research skills;
  4. Knowledge about tailoring writing to specific audiences and purposes.

It is no surprise, then, that English majors often find themselves working as copy writers, technical editors, acquisitions editors, and marketing and publicity specialists for publishing houses, magazines, newspapers, and online publications. In fact, according to the National Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), writers, editors, and publishers often need qualities like creativity, adaptability, persuasion, attention to detail, and language skills — all qualities students can develop as English majors.

The NBLS also reports a projected eight percent growth in employment in communications and media fields, with 15 percent projected growth in technical editing jobs. Therefore, students who want to work in this field will find that an English major or minor pairs especially well with computer science, aviation, engineering, or science majors.

Students taking coursework in the UND English Department's Certificate in Writing and Editing will learn about the common processes for guiding a publication from inception to distribution. They will work on a variety of original publications, both print and digital, thus gaining practical experience in the field.

The core courses include ENGL 234, Introduction to Writing, Editing, and Publishing; ENGL 334, Practicum in Writing, Editing, and Publishing; ENGL 428, Digital Humanities; and a range of additional courses from within and without the department. Students completing this sequence get an additional certificate with their diploma upon graduation.

More About Editing and Publishing

If you are interested in learning more about a career in editing/publishing, or the Certificate in Writing and Editing, contact Dr. Sheila Liming. Dr. Liming can offer you advice on choosing courses in the certificate program; help you locate internships in editing and publishing; and develop job materials as you move toward a career.