Proofreaders
Education & Training
Preparation
To work as a proofreader, you typically need to:
- have a high school diploma or GED;
- have a bachelor's degree; and
- complete moderate-term on-the-job training.
Education after high school
Most proofreaders have a bachelor's degree. A major in English, communications, or journalism is good preparation.
Work experience
You can develop proofreading skills by working on a school newspaper or yearbook.
On-the-job training
Most proofreaders learn additional skills on the job. For example, you learn the standard proofreader marks and styles of type. Training may last up to one year.
You must bring several skills with you to the job. For example, you must be a good reader and writer with solid command of language and grammar. You also need the ability to detect small differences in letters and numbers.
Related Programs (Current training programs available)
Fields of Study (What to study to prepare for this career)
Click on any of the Fields of Study listed below to find out more about preparing for this career.
- Creative Writing
- English Composition and Writing
- English Language and Literature
- Printing Technologies
- Technical and Business Writing
Level of Education
The table below lists the level of education attained by a subset of workers in this occupation. The workers surveyed were between age 25 and 44.
| Education level attained | Percentage of workers in this occupation* |
|---|---|
| Less than high school diploma | 2 |
| High school diploma or equivalent | 20 |
| Some college, no degree | 22 |
| Associate degree | 7 |
| Bachelor's degree | 38 |
| Master's degree | 10 |
| Doctoral (Ph.D.) or professional degree | 2 |
* National data for proofreaders and copy markers (SOC 43-9081).
Helpful High School Courses
You should take a general high school curriculum that meets the state's graduation requirements. You will be required to take both math and science classes to graduate. Proofreaders need an excellent command of English. Try to take as many English and writing classes as possible.
Helpful electives to take in high school that prepare you for this occupation include:
- Composition
- Creative Writing
- Technical Writing
The courses listed above are meant to help you create your high school plan. If you have not already done so, talk to a school counselor or parent about the courses you are considering taking.
You should also check with a teacher or counselor to see if work-based learning opportunities are available in your school and community. These might include field trips, job shadowing, internships, and actual work experience. The goal of these activities is to help you connect your school experiences with real-life work.
Join some groups, try some hobbies, or volunteer with an organization that interests you. By participating in activities you can have fun, make new friends, and learn about yourself. Maybe one of them will help direct you to a future career.
Source: Minnesota Department of Education.
