Individual Training - E-learning

The IoP's e-learning modules are short, online courses, designed to give you insights into specific topics that you may encounter and need to know about during your publishing career.

Each module builds skills in a particular area, such as editing fiction, handling copyright, or project management. Most are for editors or those working in rights, along with introductions to the industry and marketing for those starting out or who need to know more.

The courses are broken down into units for easy study, with quizzes or tests at the end of each unit to test your knowledge and reinforce your learning. Study time varies from 2–3 hours for the shortest courses to 8–10 for the longest.

Competitively priced, you can purchase individual modules from only £36 (including VAT), or the full set of 15 for the discounted price of £120 (including VAT). Click here to find out more.

The IoP's e-learning modules were developed with the support of the Unwin Charitable Trust.

Frequently asked questions

Can anyone enrol on an e-learning course?

Yes. There are no entry qualifications and you can live anywhere in the world to study an IoP course. You can enrol any time of year, there are no set joining dates or terms, as you work at your own pace. For all courses, it will help if you have:

an eye for detail
a good concentration span
a firm grasp of colloquial English, along with English grammar, spelling and punctuation
good general knowledge and a willingness to learn.

Do I need any special equipment or software?

Courses are accessed through an online learning platform, and most work is completed on-screen, so you will need access to a computer.

You do not need any other special software, other than the usual word-processing programs that you use for editing, reading and writing in some of the modules. You may find it helpful to print and read or check your work. Where any additional software is required, such as Adobe Acrobat, the IoP will suggest free versions that you can use.

Are these courses only for freelancers?

No – anyone can study them, whether working in-house for a publisher in an editorial or other role, studying another subject elsewhere, working as a freelancer or in a different industry or trade all together. These courses are popular with career changers, and those who want to earn some extra money or go freelance with a recognised qualification.

How long do I have to study the course?

You have eight (8) months' access from when you buy the course to complete it. If you purchase more than one e-learning module, you will have this time to complete each. If you buy all 15 e-learning modules (the E-15 package), then you have 2 years (24 months) to complete them all.