How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- working towards this role
- applying directly
University
It may help to have a higher national diploma (HND), foundation degree or degree in a subject, such as:
- graphic design
- art and design
- illustration
- fine art
- photography
- publishing
It's important to get some experience with a magazine, design studio or publishing organisation.
Your university careers service can help you find relevant work experience, internship and placement opportunities.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- a foundation diploma in art and design
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
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College
You could apply for a job as an assistant editor after completing a creative or media related course at college.
Relevant subjects include:
- photography
- art and design
- graphic design
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
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Work
You may be able to join a company’s creative team as a graphic designer or assistant picture editor.
With experience and further training on the job, you could move on to become deputy art editor and eventually editor.
Direct Application
You can apply directly for jobs if you've got the right skills and experience. You may have an advantage if you have an interest or background in the subjects covered by the company or agency.
For example, an interest in science, architecture or sport might be useful if you want to work on magazines covering those fields.
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Career tips
It’s helpful to build a portfolio of work that showcases your creative art and design skills to employers.
You can keep up to date with the latest trends, features and design tools by:
- watching free webinars and doing online training courses
- reading and watching the latest industry blogs for news, tips and trends
- exploring how to use artificial intelligence tools to enhance your image editing and desktop publishing skills
Professional and industry bodies
You may find it useful to join the Professional Publishers Association (PPA) for professional recognition, training opportunities and to make industry contacts.