Careers in Educational Publishing: Job Options and Requirements

Educational publishing companies employ a variety of professionals, such as as authors, editors and marketing managers. These employees work on projects to produce and distribute textbooks and other educational materials. Read on to learn more.

Career Options in Educational Publishing

Author

Authors in the educational publishing industry create content to help readers understand different subjects and topics, such as mathematics or social science. Sometimes known as writers, these professionals produce reading materials, study aids and test questions for students of all grade levels. Authors might work for educational publishing companies or be self-employed on a contractual basis.

Requirements

Aspiring authors might consider a bachelor's degree in English, journalism or communications. Through these programs, students take classes in creative writing and literature to hone their understanding and command of the English language. College students can consider writing for their school newspapers, covering topics in college life, academics or sports to gain experience and build their resumes prior to graduation.

Editor

Editors review the work of authors, making corrections and improving the quality of content along the way. Because editors check facts and ensure that the work is accurate, employers could favor applicants who have specialized knowledge in the field. For example, editors reviewing textbooks on finance might need to have a background in finance, accounting, business or a related field. Some editors could come up with ideas for new products, services and materials as well as handing out assignments to writers.

Requirements

Like writers, editors need a strong foundation in the English language, which can be attained through a bachelor's degree program in English or a related field. Students in these programs often have weekly writing assignments and might be required to submit several drafts of a final paper, allowing them to edit and revise their writing to be more informative, persuasive or entertaining. Aspiring editors considering working for an educational publisher in a specific field, such as foreign language or economics, could also take additional courses to earn a minor in the respective subject.

Marketing Managers

Marketing managers work for educational publishing companies to promote products to schools, colleges and other educational businesses, organizations or institutions. These professionals work with writers and sales managers to research and find the appropriate textbook or other resource for new and existing clients. Other duties can include reviewing product pricing and generating potential client lists.

Requirements

Prospective marketing managers could look into bachelor's degree programs in marketing, business administration and related fields to prepare for the career. Because these majors require analytical skills, students are often required to complete courses in mathematics and statistics. Programs also include courses in sales management, retailing and consumer behavior.

While in school, college students could consider internship opportunities with publishing house marketing departments to gain industry experience. Duties can include compiling databases of clients and implementing campaigns on social media networks, such as Twitter and Facebook.