Certificate IV in Professional Writing and Editing
You’ll explore your creativity and hone it for various styles and forms – from fiction and non-fiction to journalism, business writing, and public relations.
When you graduate, you’ll be prepared for entry level writing, editing, and creative roles in various fields. You’ll have the confidence to write in an engaging style with accuracy and flair.
Duration
1 year full-time
Intakes
Hawthorn (March) - View application and start dates
Study modes
- Full-time,
- Part-time (day)
VTAC course code
- 3400278034 (fee type determined by provider)

This is a nationally approved vocational course that is recognised throughout Australia.
What I like most is the supportive environment. Our tutors are always available and very generous with feedback. Weekly exercises have taught me about writing for different audiences and purposes. I've even had a few pieces published. This course can also be a stepping stone to a diploma or degree.
Margareta
Certificate IV in Professional Writing and Editing

Part of the Melbourne writing community
In 2014, Sarah Giles began her Certificate IV in Professional Writing and Editing. Today, she has a diploma and bachelor degree under her belt, and is tackling a PhD in creative writing.
Along the way, Sarah has involved herself in the Melbourne writing community by volunteering at the Emerging Writers’ Festival, Feminist Writers’ Festival, Writers Victoria and Swinburne Writers’ Festival. ‘It was thanks to the encouragement of my teachers,’ said Sarah. ‘They were all so supportive.’ Sarah has now been published by TEXT Journal, The Victorian Writer, Underground Writers, Lip Magazine and Melbourne Noir Cards, and has worked as a freelance copywriter and website manager. All while continuing her studies.
Course information in detail
- Course detail, course structure and units of study.
Course description
Course structure
Units of study
Design and produce text documents (BSBITU303)
Implement copyright arrangements (CUACMP311)
Work effectively in the creative arts industry (CUAIND311)
Perform writing and editing tasks (CUAWRT404)
Write fiction material (CUAWRT405)
Write nonfiction material (CUAWRT406)
Careers and graduate outcomes
- Career opportunities, course aims and objectives and graduate skills.
Career opportunities
Aims and objectives

Graduate skills
Pathways and scholarships
- Pathways, credit transfer, recognition of prior learning and scholarships.

Staff spotlight
Dr Jacqueline Ross is a widely published author of fiction and non-fiction. She has had several novels published for adults and children, including Messy Business by Simon and Schuster. Her memoir, My First Mother, was shortlisted for the Harper Collins Varuna Prize in 2013. Jacqueline has written many non-fiction books, feature articles and short stories. She has a PhD in creative writing from Swinburne University and a BA in Professional Writing and Editing from Deakin. Jacqueline teaches writing to TAFE, Bachelor and Masters students.

Staff spotlight
Spiri Tsintziras is an award winning-author, creative writing teacher and business writing trainer.
She has had articles and stories published in newspapers, magazines and anthologies, and is the author of several non-fiction books published in Australia and abroad.
She’s written content for community, business and government organisations for over 25 years.
In the spirit of lifelong learning, she is trying her hand at writing a crime novel as part of a Master of Arts at Swinburne University.
Course fees and requirements
- Fees, entry requirements and non-year 12 entry.
Course fees
Certificate IV in Professional Writing and EditingEstimated course fees for 2023* |
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Course fee options | Full course fee | Skills First Government-subsidised place | Concession rate |
Total Cost (GST Free) | $11,480 | $4,850 | $970 |
This training is delivered with Victorian and Commonwealth Government funding.
You could be granted a Skills First government-subsidised place when you apply for this course. Check your eligibility now.
You may be entitled to apply for a fee concession if you meet the eligibility criteria.
The eligibility criteria are set by the Victorian Government and assessed by Swinburne in accordance with government directives, which are subject to change at any time.
Find out if you're eligible for a fee concession here.
If you are not granted a government subsidised place, the full course fee will apply. Check your eligibility now.
Indicative nominal course hours: 695.
Entry requirements
For entrance to the Certificate IV in Professional Writing and Editing at Swinburne, students must have completed Year 12.
Applicants who have not completed year 12, but have relevant or significant work experience will also be considered for the course.
How to apply
Find out more
Tel: 1300 SWINBURNE
Training Organisation Identifier (TOID): 3059