Editor
Education required for this profession
Some employers look for a broad liberal arts background, while others prefer to hire people with degrees in communications, journalism, or English. For those who specialize in a particular area, such as fashion, business, or law, additional background in the chosen field is expected. Increasingly, technical writing requires a degree in, or some knowledge about, a specialized field—for example, engineering, business, or one of the sciences. Knowledge of a second language is helpful for some positions. A background in web design, computer graphics, or other technology field is increasingly practical, because of the growing use of graphics and representational design in developing technical documentation.
Relevant Degree/Diploma/CertificateBachelors Degree in literature, liberal arts, mass communication, journalism
Quick Facts
Most jobs in this occupation require a college degree preferably in communications, journalism, or English, but a degree in a technical subject may be useful for technical writing positions.
The outlook for most writing and editing jobs is expected to be competitive because many people are attracted to the occupation.
Online publications and services are growing in number and sophistication, spurring the demand for writers and editors with Web or multimedia experience.
SalaryMedian annual earnings for salaried editors are $46,990 . The middle 50 percent earn between $35,250 and $64,140. The lowest 10 percent earn less than $27,340, and the highest 10 percent earn more than $87,400. Median annual earnings of those working for newspaper, periodical, book, and directory publishers are $45,970.