The ability to evaluate, shape, and improve written content is becoming increasingly valuable across many industries. Whether you’re an aspiring editor, ready to advance in your current role, or want to explore freelance work, this course is ideal for you.
Certificate of Editing and Proofreading is a professional development course that equips you with the skills required to edit and proofread a wide range of content.
In this editing and proofreading course, you will explore the full editing process, from basic grammar and punctuation to advanced proofreading techniques. You’ll also develop a strong understanding of voice, tone, consistency, and how to apply style guides to maintain quality and consistency across all forms of writing.
You’ll learn about editing software, markup methods, and applying skills across various writing formats, from editing blog posts and business reports to academic papers. You will also learn how to use AI tools responsibly, manage collaborative projects, and navigate freelance roles.
On completion of this course, you will feel confident to edit, proofread and produce high-quality content for a variety of documents and industries.
Course Structure
Certificate of Editing and Proofreading
Unit 1: Foundations of Editing and Proofreading
- Foundations of editing and proofreading
- Editing vs proofreading
- The role of editors and proofreaders
- Substantive editing
- Copyediting
- Copyediting process
- Proofreading
- Proofreading process
- Industry standards
- Ethical considerations
Unit 2: Language and Grammar Essentials
- Language and grammar essentials
- Common grammar terms
- Common spelling errors
- Sentence structure
- Punctuation rules
- Australian English
- Plain language principles
Unit 3: Style, Tone, and Consistency
- Style, tone, and consistency
- Maintaining voice and tone
- Consistent tense and point of view
- Identifying redundancies
- Improving readability
- Simplifying complex sentences
- Logical flow and coherence
- Citations and references
- Style guides
- Adapting to different clients/employers
Unit 4: Proofreading Techniques
- Proofreading techniques
- Techniques for catching errors
- Spelling and typographical errors
- Final checks before publication
- Proofreading checklist
Unit 5: Editing in Different Contexts
- Editing in different contexts
- Editing fiction
- Editing non-fiction
- Editing academic work
- Editing business documents
- Editing technical documents
- Editing for print content
- Editing for digital content
- Editing blogs
- Editing articles
- Editing reports
- Editing for online platforms
Unit 6: Tools and Technology for Editors
- Tools and technology for editors
- Editing software and plugins
- Track changes and version control
- Traditional proofreading marks
- Proofreading symbols
- Proofreading marks in digital documents
- AI for Editors
- AI tools
- Using AI and Grammarly responsibly
Unit 7: Fact Checking and Accuracy
- Fact checking and accuracy
- Verifying sources and references
- Identifying bias and misinformation
- Legal and ethical concerns
- Strategies for improving content
Unit 8: Professional Practice and Career Development
- Professional practice and career development
- Freelancing vs in-house
- Building client relationships
- Setting rates and managing contracts
- Professional development
- Career pathways
Study Hours
Estimated duration 40 hours
Course Delivery and Start
Start anytime, self-paced and 100% online
Assessment
Assessment will be comprised of written exercises, including short-answer questions, reflective tasks, short reports and/or projects. There are no examinations or due dates for assessment. As a result, you can complete training in your own time and at your own pace with the assistance of unlimited tutor support.
Approval and Recognition
Australian Online Courses Pty Ltd is an approved and recognised member of IARC. The IARC is an International association that recognises quality and excellence in tertiary education providers.
Testimonials
Click to See What Our Students Say
I loved the mini quizzes because it helped me remember information. I loved learning about more of the ins and outs of the writing industry and it has helped me better edit my own work.
A.Keeshan, NSW | Certificate of Editing and Proofreading
This was my first time studying since graduating high school in 2003. I found the course thorough and interesting. I sincerely believe it has increased my knowledge in this area and I’m excited to use what I’ve learnt to work more in this field.
E.Archer, Rockingham, WA | Certificate of Editing and Proofreading
It was a good learning experience that I was able to complete in my own time, alongside my employment.
H. Lambert, Newcastle, NSW | Certificate of Editing and Proofreading
My experience with studying the Certificate in Editing and Proofreading was overall a very positive one. The modules were logically set out, the activities and assessments were well connected to the content and now that I am working in the industry, I can clearly see the correlation between the modules and the actual work. I only needed clarification once, just to make sure I was on the right track, and the response was prompt and supportive.
I would most definitely recommend this course to anyone wishing to work in the publishing industry in an editing capacity.
K. Alexander, Bullaburra, NSW | Certificate of Editing and Proofreading
I enjoyed the flexibility of working at my own pace, and Tutor support was available if I needed it.
Nicola | Seaholme, VIC | Certificate of Editing and Proofreading
Graduation
A Certificate of Attainment and Statement of Results will be issued upon successful completion of this course.
How to Enrol
Enrolment Form – Employment Services and Rehabilitation Providers
Enrol via Live Chat (Business Hours)
Enrol via Telephone 1300 76 2221 (Business Hours)
Payment Options
Visa, Mastercard, BPAY, Bank Transfer and Afterpay. Please allow 1-2 Business days for processing for BPAY, Bank Transfer and Afterpay.
Course FAQs
Why Choose Australian Online Courses?
- Professional development that is widely recognised and respected;
- Improve your employment opportunities;
- Study online, anywhere via our elearning system;
- High-quality professional development programs written by industry experts;
- All course materials provided online – no textbooks to buy;
- Unlimited tutor support via email;
- We offer twelve (12) months’ access, with extensions available upon application (fees apply);
- Course may be tax deductible; see your tax advisor.
Are there any entry requirements or pre-requisites?
There are no course or subject pre-requisites for entry into our programs. However, our professional development programs are generally intended for people over the age of 18. In some circumstances, enrolments from younger people may be considered. Please complete the AOC Parent Guardian Consent Form prior to enrolling and submit here.
Are there any computer requirements?
To study online with Australian Online Courses you will need a computer (desktop PC/laptop) running a current/updated operating system with reliable high-speed internet access. You will need to use the Google Chrome browser to access your course.
When can I start this course?
You can start within 60 minutes during business hours when you enrol and pay in full with a credit card!
Credit card: Within 60 mins during business hours.
BPAY: Within 1-2 working days.
Afterpay: Within 1-2 working days
Internet Banking: Within 1-2 working days.
Cheque/Money Order: Upon receipt of mailed cheque.
How is this course delivered?
This course is delivered online via our easy-to-navigate Learning Management System (LMS), where you will discover interactive online learning/written content, resources and assessment.
Do I need to attend classes or undertake any work placements?
No. All courses are delivered online via our LMS and there are no work placement requirements in this course.
What support can I expect from Australian Online Courses?
Unlimited tutor support is available throughout your studies via email only during business hours Monday to Friday. Our Administrative team are available Monday to Friday via email, live chat and telephone.
I am an international student. Can I enrol into this course?
Yes! We accept enrolments from individuals both within Australia and internationally; location is no barrier to entry into our programs.
Career Pathways
Future growth
Strong
Unemployment
Low
- Content Editor
- Social Media Manager
- Digital Content Producer
- Digital Copywriter
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