Skip to main content

WRIT 390 Editing for Literary Publication

Writing is as much a craft as it is an art, and writers who excel in their various writing fields understand the mechanics of their craft as well as the effects their writing will have on an audience. In writing and literature courses, students learn how to analyze writing: in this course, students will apply these skills to publication standards to prepare them for careers in literary publishing or other careers in which advanced editing and creative writing skills are desirable. Students will learn various forms of literary editing, including developmental editing, line editing, and copy-editing. Whether a student¿s goal is to become a freelance writer, copywriter, manuscript editor, or managing editor, this course will prepare students for a career in the world of writing for publication.

Prerequisites

4 Undergraduate credits

Effective May 6, 2025 to present

Learning outcomes

General

  • Perform the duties of an editor in terms of persuasion, collaboration, negotiation, implementation, and self-reflection.
  • Edit multiple forms of writing using the basic principles and techniques of copyediting and proofreading, including editing symbols/software and the use of style sheets.
  • Demonstrate a strong proficiency of English grammar, spelling, punctuation, and usage.
  • Justify editing decisions to other writers.
  • Demonstrate basic knowledge of the history of publishing, including print, digital, and other media.
  • Collaborate with peer editors to evaluate publications that align with Metro State¿s mission.
  • Write, edit, and design media for a range of entities in the arts industry.