Key facts
UNE unit code: WRIT313
*You are viewing the 2027 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 3 - Online
- Yes
- No
- No
- 6
Unit information

Structural editing, copy editing and proofreading are an important part of the process of developing any academic or creative writing that will be read by other people. Editing is an important skill in many workplaces and essential for those interested in a career in the publishing industry.
This hands-on unit supports you to gain practical skills in structural editing, copy editing and proofreading through the development of an online student anthology.
You will learn how to use the digital tools to sensitively appraise and edit written work. You’ll also develop a capacity to reflect on editorial processes and justify decisions.
In order to achieve these outcomes, you are required to participate in weekly learning activities leading up to assessment, submit your own work for editing and edit another student’s work for publication in an online anthology.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 3 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)

Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- critically appraise the integrity of a text for the purpose of publication;
- demonstrate proficiency in substantive editing, copy editing and proofreading;
- demonstrate an understanding of, and the ability to apply, industry standards for editing, including meeting tight deadlines, professional standards of conduct, and legal and ethical requirements;
- demonstrate sensitivity to working with an author;
- justify editing decisions with reference to authorial intention, reader engagement and place of publication; and
- use technology to provide feedback on and improve the verbal and design elements of a text.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assessment 1 | Yes | 20% | All offerings | Reflection on appraisal and structural editing activities No. Words: 1000 equivalent |
| Assessment 2 | Yes | 20% | All offerings | Reflection on line editing and proofeading activities No. Words: 1000 equivalent |
| Assessment 3 | Yes | 60% | All offerings | Editing Project: Online student anthology No. Words: 2500 equivalent |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Recommended material may be held in the University Library — purchase is optional.
Style Manual: For Authors, Editors and Printers
ISBN: 9780701636487
DCITA, John Wiley & Sons, Australia Ltd. 6th ed. 2011
Text refers to: All offerings
Excellence in experience, equity and employability
Five Stars,
20 Years in a Row
UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 20 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience.
Good Universities Guide 2007-2026Five Stars for
Social Equity
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities nationally and is #1 in NSW for Social Equity.
Good Universities Guide 2026Five Stars for
Graduate Employment
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities for Graduate Full-Time Employment and Starting Salary.
Good Universities Guide 2026 (Undergraduate)Diamond-Rated Digital Learning
UNE’s leadership in digital learning earned the highest ‘Diamond’ rating in a peer review.
ASCILITE TELAS 2025
Studying online
At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian university.
We understand the challenges faced by busy adults studying at home. We know that a vital part of online study is your engagement with the learning community. Communication with your classmates, teaching staff and university support staff will enhance your study experience and ensure that your skills extend beyond the subject matter. UNE’s teaching staff are experts in their field which is why UNE consistently receives five stars from students for teaching quality, support and overall experience.*
*The Good Universities Guide
Stay connected
Join our mailing list for updates and helpful tips to support your study plans. You can unsubscribe at any time.
- •Course updates and important changes as they happen
- •Key dates for intakes, deadlines, and enrolment steps
- •Application guidance, including supporting documentation requirements
- •Next steps and what to expect after you apply or enquire
Ready to stay in the loop?
GET IN TOUCH
Why study with us?

UNE’s flexibility and support made the transition smooth and helped me find a great balance between academic responsibilities and personal growth. It was the perfect place to study education while staying true to my rural roots.
What happens next?
Got a question about a course you'd like to study? Contact our Future Student Team for help.
2027 applications are now open. The application process only takes 20 minutes to complete. Don’t delay, apply now!
Your start date is based on the study period you choose to apply for.