Register by July 15, 2025. This is an online asynchronous class offered in a time-flexible learning format from September to December 2025. Eligible for PIBC CPL units.  

Introduction to the principal tasks of copy editing non-fiction print and electronic manuscripts to ensure they are correct, consistent, coherent and concise. Topics include the copyeditor's role, spelling, punctuation, editorial style features, usage and writing style. Practice in the skills of the professional copy editor, including using manual editing marks, copy editing manuscripts drawn from a variety of non-fiction sources and preparing an editorial style sheet.

Please visit the Professional Communication in the Workplace program page to enrol in this course. Students must enrol in the three-course micro-certificate program rather than the individual courses.

Learning Objectives: 

• Demonstrate a clear understanding of what copyeditors do and how their work differs from the work of other editors and writers
• Better understand the relationship between copyeditor and writer and how to make sure the relationship is a positive one
• Consider a manuscript’s purpose and audience when making copyediting decisions
• Use dictionaries, style manuals, usage guides, and other print and electronic resources to find answers to copyediting questions
• Gain a better understanding of issues relating to diversity, inclusivity, and bias-free language in an editorial context
• Query authors courteously and effectively
• Recognize common variants of spelling, punctuation, and editorial style (including hyphenation, number use, capitalization, and other editorial style choices) and choose the appropriate variant following a given editorial style
• Apply knowledge of grammar, spelling, usage, diction, and style to copyedit a manuscript so that it is clear, coherent, consistent, and correct
• Mark up copy using MS Word’s editing features, Adobe Acrobat Pro, and standard (handwritten) proofmarks
• Prepare a copyeditor’s editorial style sheet

Admission requirements: 

Students must submit an application (required for professional learners entering the micro-certificate) that will be assessed for prior learning or professional experience equivalent to pre-requisites for program’s 300-level courses.
 

1. Delivery Style: Online Asynchronous 
   Date: Sept. 3 - Dec. 3, 2025 
   Enrol in the program by: July 15, 2025 
   Instructor: Dr. Kim McLean-Fiander
   Fees: $641.48, plus UVSS fees as applicable 
   Credit and Non-Credit options available 

   This course has to be taken as part of the three-course Professional Communication in the Workplace Micro-Certificate