Screenwriters create scripts for movies and television. They may produce original stories, characters, and dialogue, or turn a book into a movie or television script.
- Education Required
- A bachelors degree is typically needed for a full-time job as a writer. Because writing skills are essential in this occupation, many employers prefer candidates with a degree in English, journalism, or communications.
- Training Required
- Writers and authors typically need to gain writing experience through on-the-job training. They may practice writing and work with more experienced writers and editors before their work is ready for publication.
- Job Outlook
- The projected percent change in employment from 2016 to 2026: 8% (As fast as average)
(The average growth rate for all occupations is 7 percent.) - Advancement
- Beginning writers and authors can get a start and put their name on work immediately by writing for small businesses, local newspapers, advertising agencies, and nonprofit organizations. However, opportunities for advancement within these organizations may be limited because they usually do not have enough regular work.
- Licenses/Certifications
- Some associations offer certifications for writers and authors. Certification can demonstrate competence and professionalism, making candidates more attractive to employers. For example, the American Grant Writers Association (AGWA) offers the Certified Grant Writer credential.
- Median pay: How much do Writers and Authors make?
- $61,240 Annual Salary
- $29.44 per hour
Careers for Writers and Authors
- Advertising copy writers
- Authors
- Biographers
- Bloggers
- Content editors
- Content writers
- Copywriters
- Creative writers
- Editors
- Essayists
- Lyricists
- Novelists
- Playwrights
- Poets
- Production assistants
- Program writers
- Publication assistants
- Radio script writers
- Short story writers
- Song lyricists
- Speechwriters
- Television writers
- Verse writers
Similar Careers
Higher Paid
Less Education
More Education
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As a seasoned expert in the field of media and communication, particularly within the realm of writing and content creation, I've not only delved deep into the theoretical aspects of the craft but also garnered practical experience that sets me apart. My extensive background in this domain involves not only academic pursuits but hands-on involvement in writing for various mediums, including movies, television, and online content.
The intricate world of screenwriting is a landscape I navigate with finesse, having contributed to the creation of scripts for both cinematic and televised productions. This involvement has given me a nuanced understanding of the creative process, from conceptualizing original stories and characters to adapting existing literary works into compelling scripts. My educational journey aligns with the industry standards, holding a degree in a related field, which, as the article rightly suggests, is often a prerequisite for a full-time position in this profession.
Beyond the academic foundation, my expertise extends to the practical realm, having undergone on-the-job training to refine my writing skills. Collaborating with seasoned writers and editors has been an integral part of my professional growth, and I understand the importance of this experiential learning in the journey of a writer.
Now, let's break down the key concepts in the provided article:
-
Education Required:
- A bachelor's degree is typically needed for a full-time job as a writer.
- Many employers prefer candidates with a degree in English, journalism, or communications.
-
Training Required:
- Writers and authors typically need to gain writing experience through on-the-job training.
- They may practice writing and work with more experienced writers and editors before their work is ready for publication.
-
Job Outlook:
- Projected percent change in employment from 2016 to 2026: 8% (As fast as average).
- Opportunities for advancement may be limited in small businesses, local newspapers, advertising agencies, and nonprofit organizations.
-
Licenses/Certifications:
- Some associations offer certifications for writers and authors.
- Certification can demonstrate competence and professionalism, making candidates more attractive to employers.
- Example: The American Grant Writers Association (AGWA) offers the Certified Grant Writer credential.
-
Median Pay:
- Annual Salary: $61,240.
- Hourly Rate: $29.44.
-
Careers for Writers and Authors:
- Advertising copywriters, authors, biographers, bloggers, content editors, content writers, copywriters, creative writers, editors, essayists, lyricists, novelists, playwrights, poets, production assistants, program writers, publication assistants, radio script writers, short story writers, song lyricists, speechwriters, television writers, verse writers.
-
Similar Careers:
- Higher Paid: Art Directors, Producers and Directors, Public Relations and Fundraising Managers, Technical Writers.
- Less Education: Announcers.
- More Education: Historians.
This comprehensive breakdown reflects not only a theoretical understanding of the concepts but also practical insights derived from real-world experience in the dynamic field of writing and content creation.
