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How to Apply

The 2008-2009 program is underway and is no longer accepting applications Single courses may be available » Next program starts: Autumn 2009 Details will be posted in Spring Program location: Bellevue Sign up to receive e-mail updates >> Contact a program representative >>   Download a program overview >>

• Admission Requirements
• Earning the Certificate
• Application Process
• Fees and Tuition
• Single-Course Enrollment

Admission Requirements

Successful editors are avid readers and practical writers who have a solid command of reading comprehension, grammar, and English language skills as demonstrated in the letter of application and résumé. Computer proficiency includes access to a computer and email, the ability to send and receive attachments, and familiarity with Microsoft Word.

English Proficiency: Students who are non-native English speakers are expected to have adequate English language proficiency. For details, see English Language Guidelines.

International Students: This program does not qualify as full-time study, and therefore does not meet requirements for an F-1 visa. However, if you are an F-1 student currently enrolled full-time in another program, OR you are in the U.S. on some other type of visa (not F-1), you may be eligible to take a certificate program or course. For complete details, or to contact an adviser, see Visa Information.

Students earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs) for all courses in this program. Standards and expectations for student work have been established by the instructors and advisory board. A significant amount of work outside of class is required; regular attendance and timely submission of all class assignments and projects are critical. To stay in the program and earn the certificate, participants are required to successfully complete a grammar test during the fall term.

Courses are arranged sequentially; participants must successfully complete each course each term before they can advance to the next term. Students earning the certificate are recognized during the annual UW Extension certificate awards ceremony.

International students are expected to have adequate English language proficiency and appropriate visa status before taking courses. For English language guidelines and visa information, see the International and English Language Programs page.

Application Process

The 2008-2009 program is underway and is no longer accepting applications. The next program begins in Autumn 2009. Click here to be notified via e-mail when complete details for the next program are available online. The following information regarding the application process may be helpful as you plan for applying to the next program:

To Apply: You can apply online or submit one copy of the application form with a $50 certificate program fee* and two stapled application sets, which include the following clearly labeled documents:

1. A typed (250-word maximum) letter of application describing a) your relevant work and volunteer experience, and/or transferable skills and knowledge of the field, and b) how you expect the program will help you meet your professional goals
2. Your résumé listing education and applicable experience; be sure to note any substantial study of grammar and editing experience, detailing actual skills or duties performed and length of time

Application Review: Applications are evaluated by a review committee designated by the advisory board. Selection of program participants is based on admission requirements. Applicants receive written notification of their acceptance or non-acceptance within two weeks after their application is received.

Enrollment: Applicants accepted to the program receive enrollment information for the first-term course and are encouraged to make their fall tuition payment early. Enrollment in the program is on a first-come, first-served basis, upon receipt of the first-term tuition payment.

Waitlist: Some programs maintain a waitlist for applicants accepted after the program has reached enrollment capacity. If space becomes available, waitlisted applicants will be notified and given an opportunity to enroll. If space does not become available, waitlisted applicants will be offered a space in the next program offering.

* The certificate program fee is not refundable and does not guarantee admission to, or enrollment in, the program.

Fees and Tuition

Tuition is payable on a term-by-term basis. Tuition for core courses is $1,936, excluding certificate program and registration fees and textbooks. Students may choose to register for additional courses for an additional cost. There is a $50 nonrefundable certificate program fee to apply to this program and a $35 nonrefundable registration fee each term. First-term tuition of $698, plus the nonrefundable registration fee, is due by September 18, 2008. The University's tuition exemption policy does not apply to this program. Fees and tuition are subject to change.

Information on registration and refund policies and procedures is included with registration materials.

Single-Course Enrollment

Interested in taking just one class? Some courses in this program (those courses designated by a ) are open for single-course enrollment to those who do not wish to earn the certificate. Because some courses require prior knowledge and experience in the field, those interested in taking individual courses need to submit these materials:

1. A completed application for single-course enrollment;
2. A résumé listing your work-related experience, and a typed (250-word maximum) letter of application describing your experience/knowledge and how it was acquired.

Please note that courses taken as a non-certificate student are not automatically applied toward a certificate of completion in the program. Single-course enrollments are on a space-available basis. No certificate program fee is necessary; tuition is not accepted until you are notified of eligibility.