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To become an editor you usually have to complete a degree in communications, journalism, professional writing, English, media studies or a related field and provide evidence of a wide range of reading and general interests. To get into these courses you usually need to gain your TCE. Most universities in Australia offer degrees in these areas. Universities have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements or offer external study. Contact Open Universities Australia or the universities you are interested in for more information as requirements may change.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
The Institute of Professional Editors (IPEd) runs a professional accreditation scheme, details of which can be found on its website.

People usually proceed to the position of newspaper editor through the various stages of journalism. Newspaper editors therefore have a great deal of on-the-job experience.

If you have spent some time as an editorial assistant with a publishing company, it may be possible to progress to the position of book editor. After working in other sections of a publishing firm (as a secretary or sales representative, for example), you may be able to move into a trainee editorial position.

Editors are expected to be familiar with computers, word processing software for editing and publishing layout programs for typesetting.