Top 11 Editor Certifications

Certifications for editors are important for a few reasons. First, they demonstrate to potential employers that the editor has obtained a certain level of knowledge in their field and can be trusted to perform their job competently. Second, certifications provide a way for editors to differentiate themselves from other candidates in the job market. Finally, certifications help build credibility and trust with clients by showing them that the editor is certified in their field. All of these factors can make a difference when it comes to securing employment or being hired for freelance projects.

The purpose of this article is to review the best certifications available for editors and explain how they can help to further an editor's career.

What are Editor Certifications?

Editor certification is a process in which an individual or organization can become certified to provide editing services. This certification is typically granted by a professional association or organization and involves completing certain educational requirements, passing an exam, and demonstrating a high level of proficiency in the field of editing. The goal of editor certification is to ensure that editors have the knowledge and skills necessary to provide quality editing services.

Editor certification can be beneficial for both editors and those seeking editing services. For editors, it provides a way to demonstrate their qualifications and expertise in the field, as well as providing them with a way to stay up-to-date on industry standards and best practices. For those seeking editing services, it helps them identify qualified professionals who are able to provide quality work at reasonable rates. In addition, editor certification can also serve as a form of protection against inexperienced or unqualified individuals who may offer subpar work or charge excessive fees for their services.

Pro Tip: When considering an editor certification program, look for one that offers a comprehensive curriculum including topics such as grammar and style, copyediting, proofreading, and content strategy. Additionally, make sure the program is accredited by a recognized professional organization in the field.

Related: What does an Editor do?

Top 11 Editor Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Editors today.

1. Adobe Certified Expert (ACE)

Adobe Certified Expert (ACE) is a certification program offered by Adobe that validates an individual’s expertise in using Adobe products. The ACE program tests a candidate’s knowledge of the features and functions of Adobe products, as well as their ability to apply those skills in real-world situations.

The amount of time it takes to get certified depends on the product and the level of certification sought. Generally, it will take between one and three months to complete all the necessary requirements for certification.

In order to become an ACE, you must first register with Adobe and then purchase an exam voucher from Adobe or an authorized testing center. After purchasing the voucher, you can then schedule your exam at a Pearson VUE testing center.

The cost of becoming an ACE varies depending on which product you are certifying for and which level of certification you are seeking. Generally, exams range from $100 - $200 USD per exam.

2. Avid Certified Professional (ACP)

Avid Certified Professional (ACP) is a certification program offered by Avid Technology, Inc., a leading provider of digital media production tools and services. It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the highest level of proficiency with Avid products and technologies.

To become an ACP, you must pass an exam that tests your knowledge and skills with Avid products. The exam typically takes about two hours to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as installation, configuration, troubleshooting, workflow optimization, and more.

In order to take the ACP exam, you must first purchase an Avid Learning Partner Exam Voucher from an authorized reseller or directly from Avid. The cost of the voucher varies depending on your region but typically ranges from $200-$300 USD. Once you have purchased the voucher, you can register for the exam at any Pearson VUE testing center worldwide.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive an email confirming your status as an ACP along with a digital badge that can be displayed on your website or social media profiles. You will also be listed in the official Avid Certified Professionals directory so employers can easily find and verify your certification status.

3. Apple Certified Pro - Final Cut Pro X

Apple Certified Pro - Final Cut Pro X is a certification program offered by Apple that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of skill and expertise in the use of Final Cut Pro X, Apple’s professional video editing software. This certification demonstrates to employers, clients, and peers that an individual has mastered the essential features of the software and can create professional-level projects.

The certification process involves taking an exam at an Apple Authorized Training Center. The exam consists of 50 questions and must be completed within 90 minutes. To pass the exam, you must answer at least 80% of the questions correctly.

To get certified, you must first register for the exam at an Apple Authorized Training Center. You will need to provide proof of identity and pay a fee to take the test. The cost varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $150-$300 USD.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive an email with instructions on how to access your certificate online and download it as a PDF file. You can also print out a physical copy of your certificate if desired. You will also receive a digital badge that can be shared on social media or websites to show off your achievement!

4. Blackmagic Design DaVinci Resolve Editor Certification

Blackmagic Design DaVinci Resolve Editor Certification is a certification program designed to help editors and colorists learn the skills necessary to become proficient in using the DaVinci Resolve editing software. The certification program consists of two parts: an online course, and an in-person exam.

The online course covers topics such as basic editing techniques, media management, color correction, audio mixing, and mastering. It also includes tutorials on how to use the various features of the software. The course takes approximately 10 hours to complete.

The in-person exam is a hands-on test that evaluates your knowledge of the software. You will be tested on your ability to create projects from scratch, edit footage, grade shots, mix audio, and more. The exam takes about four hours to complete.

To get certified you must first take the online course and then register for the exam at one of Blackmagic Design's authorized training centers. The cost of the certification depends on where you take it but typically ranges from $499-$599 USD for both parts combined.

5. Adobe Premiere Pro Certification

Adobe Premiere Pro Certification is a professional certification program designed to help individuals demonstrate their skills and knowledge in using Adobe Premiere Pro. This certification verifies that you have the expertise needed to create high-quality video content with Adobe Premiere Pro.

The certification consists of two exams: an online exam and a practical exam. The online exam covers topics such as editing techniques, audio mixing, color correction, special effects, and more. The practical exam requires applicants to complete a series of tasks in Adobe Premiere Pro.

The length of time it takes to get certified depends on how quickly you can study for the exams and complete the required tasks. Generally speaking, it should take between one and three months to prepare for the exams and complete the practical tasks.

To get certified, you must first register for the program through Adobe's website. You will then need to pay a fee of $180 USD in order to access the online exams and practical tasks. Once you've completed both exams successfully, you will be awarded your Adobe Premiere Pro Certification.

The cost of getting certified is $180 USD for both the online exam and practical task components of the program.

6. Avid Media Composer Certification

Avid Media Composer Certification is an industry-recognized certification program that validates a user’s knowledge and skills in using Avid Media Composer, the industry standard video editing software. The certification program tests users on their ability to create, edit, mix, and deliver professional quality media projects.

The certification process consists of two parts: a written exam and a hands-on practical exam. The written exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as media management, editing techniques, effects and transitions, audio mixing, and output formats. The practical exam requires users to complete several tasks within the Avid Media Composer interface. Both exams must be successfully completed before certification can be granted.

It typically takes between 8-10 hours to complete the certification process. To get certified, users must register for the Avid Certified User Program through the Avid Learning Portal. The cost of the program varies based on location but generally ranges from $99 - $149 USD per person.

7. Apple Certified Pro - Logic Pro X

Apple Certified Pro - Logic Pro X is a certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the highest level of proficiency in the use of Logic Pro X, Apple’s professional music production software. The certification is designed to validate a user’s knowledge and skills in recording, editing, mixing, and mastering audio with Logic Pro X.

It typically takes around 6-8 hours to complete the certification process. To get certified, you must pass an online exam which consists of multiple choice questions and practical tasks. The exam covers topics such as setting up projects, working with MIDI and audio tracks, using virtual instruments and effects, mixing and mastering techniques, and more.

The cost for the Apple Certified Pro - Logic Pro X certification is $199 USD.

8. Adobe Audition Certification

Adobe Audition Certification is a professional certification program offered by Adobe that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated expertise in using the powerful audio editing and mixing software, Adobe Audition. The certification requires successful completion of an exam that covers topics such as recording, editing, mixing, and mastering audio with Adobe Audition.

The certification process typically takes about 2-3 hours to complete. To get certified, you must first register for the exam on the Adobe website. Once you’ve registered, you will be given access to online training materials and practice exams to help prepare you for the actual exam. After completing the training materials and practice exams, you can then schedule your exam date and time with an authorized testing center.

The cost of the Adobe Audition Certification Exam varies depending on your location but generally ranges from $150-$200 USD. After successfully passing the exam, you will receive an official certificate from Adobe recognizing your achievement as an Adobe Certified Professional in Audition.

9. Grass Valley Edius Editor Certification

Grass Valley Edius Editor Certification is a certification program that provides training and certification for professionals who use the Grass Valley Edius editing software. The program is designed to help users become more proficient in the use of the software and increase their productivity.

The certification program consists of two levels: Certified User and Certified Expert. The Certified User level is designed for those who are new to Grass Valley Edius or need a refresher course on its features and functions. This level requires completion of an online course, which can take up to four hours depending on the user's experience level. Upon successful completion, users will receive a certificate that shows they have completed the course and can be used as proof of their proficiency with the software.

The Certified Expert level is designed for those who are already familiar with Grass Valley Edius but need additional training on advanced features and functions. This level requires completion of an online course, which can take up to eight hours depending on the user's experience level. Upon successful completion, users will receive a certificate that shows they have completed the course and can be used as proof of their expertise with the software.

The cost of both levels varies depending on where you purchase your certification from, but typically ranges from $99 - $299 USD per person.

10. AVID Media Composer | Symphony Option Certification

AVID Media Composer | Symphony Option Certification is a certification program that verifies an individual’s expertise in the use of Avid Media Composer and its Symphony Option. This certification is designed to help media professionals demonstrate their proficiency with the software and increase their job prospects.

The certification consists of two parts: AVID Certified User (ACU) and AVID Certified Professional (ACP). The ACU exam covers basic editing techniques, while the ACP exam tests more advanced skills. Both exams are administered online through Avid's Learning Center.

It typically takes about 10-15 hours to complete both parts of the certification program. It is recommended that individuals have at least six months of experience using Avid Media Composer before attempting either exam.

To get certified, individuals must register for an account on Avid's Learning Center website, purchase a voucher for each exam, and then take the exams online. Each exam costs $150 USD, so the total cost for both exams is $300 USD.

Once an individual has successfully passed both exams, they will receive their AVID Media Composer | Symphony Option Certification from Avid. This certification is valid for two years from the date it was issued and can be renewed by taking the current versions of the ACU and ACP exams again.

11. Apple Certified Pro - Motion 5

Apple Certified Pro - Motion 5 is a certification program designed to recognize and reward professionals who demonstrate proficiency in using Motion 5, Apple’s professional motion graphics software. The certification is awarded by Apple after passing an exam that tests the user’s knowledge of the software.

The exam consists of two parts: a written test and a hands-on test. The written portion covers topics such as working with vector graphics, creating animations, and working with layers. The hands-on portion requires the user to complete several tasks using Motion 5.

It typically takes 2-3 hours to complete the exam, depending on the user’s familiarity with the software. To get certified, users must take an approved course or training program and then pass the exam at an Apple Authorized Training Center (AATC).

The cost of getting certified depends on where you take your training and which course you choose. Generally speaking, courses range from $200-$600 USD depending on the length and content covered.

Do You Really Need a Editor Certificate?

The short answer is no, you do not need an editor certificate to become an editor. However, depending on the type of editing you plan to do and your desired level of expertise, obtaining a certificate could be beneficial in helping you develop the skills and knowledge necessary for success.

A certificate program can provide you with more in-depth instruction on topics such as grammar, punctuation, style guides, and other editorial tools and techniques. Additionally, it can give you the opportunity to practice editing skills through hands-on exercises and feedback from instructors who are experienced editors. If you pursue a certification program, it will also demonstrate your commitment to the profession and dedication to honing your craft.

Ultimately, it is up to you whether or not to pursue a certificate program. If your goal is simply to gain some basic familiarity with editing fundamentals but don’t have the time or money for a full certification program, there are many free online resources available that offer quality instruction on topics such as grammar and style guides. Additionally, there are books written specifically for aspiring editors that provide comprehensive coverage of editing techniques.

No matter what route you choose, by taking steps towards improving your skillset as an editor you will be well on your way towards becoming a successful professional in this field.

Related: Editor Resume Examples

FAQs About Editor Certifications

1. What is an Editor Certification?

Answer: An Editor Certification is a professional credential that demonstrates an editor's proficiency in their field. It is typically awarded by a professional organization and involves an exam, coursework, and/or other requirements.

2. How do I become certified as an editor?

Answer: To become certified as an editor, you must first meet the qualifications set out by the certifying organization. This can include taking courses, passing exams, and/or completing other requirements. After meeting these qualifications, you can then apply for certification with the organization offering the credential.

3. What are the benefits of becoming certified as an editor?

Answer: Becoming certified as an editor can provide many benefits including increased job opportunities, recognition from employers and peers, higher salary potential, and more credibility in your chosen field.

4. How long does it take to get certified as an editor?

Answer: The time it takes to get certified as an editor will vary depending on the certifying organization and what qualifications are required for certification. Generally speaking, it could take anywhere from a few weeks to several months or even years to complete all of the necessary steps for certification.

5. Are there any prerequisites for becoming certified as an editor?

Answer: Yes - most certifying organizations have specific prerequisites that must be met before applying for certification such as having a certain number of hours of editing experience or completing relevant courses or exams related to editing.