Copy-editing certificates typically prepare candidates for entry-level positions working as editorial secretaries or junior researchers. Copy editors can go on to work for government agencies, corporations, publishing houses and web-based firms. Many copy editors also do freelance work.
The process of certification for copy editors varies greatly between accrediting institutes. Some provide direct classroom instruction while other programs are conducted online.
Professional programs typically last for two years and are available through accredited universities in the United States. Other courses are run by private firms. The cost of certificate programs varies widely from a few hundred dollars into the thousands.
Some courses are conducted on a part-time, flexible-study basis where candidates study and take required examinations at their own pace. Applicants wishing to take professional copy-writing courses at a university may have to wait until the next semester following application.
Subjects studied during coursework include general rules of grammar, proofreading methods, punctuation, in-house styles and editorial methods. Copy editors study in-house styles because most publishing houses have a particular house style that they expect their writers to adopt. Many certificate programs cover advanced skills relating to copy editing on the Internet, such as digital media processes and web-editing techniques. Students are also taught how to recognize jargon and recommend appropriate substitutions and to employ bias-free language, targeting ethnic or gender-based terminology.
Some courses offer tailored study programs for students wishing to enter specific fields, such as medical copy-writing, which are available at medical training institutes across the U.S. Candidates can also specialize in legal copy-writing.
Some courses, usually the university-based programs, only accept candidates with a General Education Diploma (GED) or a high school diploma. Online programs can usually be taken at any time of year. Candidates are required to complete certificate coursework within three years of their registration date and are typically required to apply for certification within a year of concluding their studies.