Film/video editor : Entry requirements

No specific qualifications are required and so this area of work is open to all graduates and Diplomates. However, the following subjects may increase your chances and provide you with useful experience:

• communication and media studies;
• photography/film/television;
• fine art/visual art;
• information technology/multimedia;
• graphic design.

Entry without a degree or HND is possible but applicants must show commitment and determination to enter the industry. Courses offering film/media production experience may be advantageous.

Pre-entry experience is extremely important and you will need to show evidence of having worked on film/video production or post-production within or outside your degree, preferably via an up-to-date and well-prepared showreel. Film/video editing is not a starting role in the industry and it is common for current students or recent graduates to gain some experience by starting as a runner, broadcasting/film/video. Editors can come from other roles and it is not unusual for an experienced film director to move into editing in order to gain a more settled lifestyle.

For direct entry, in addition to experience, you must be able to demonstrate your skill with appropriate editing software packages, such as the AVID or Final Cut Pro packages. Courses cater for various levels of expertise and can be costly, but should provide you with specific industry-required skills. You should be selective about the courses you choose to ensure they fully match your career and training aims. If you have experience of the very latest technology, it may reduce the competition you face. General computer literacy and an aptitude for working with digital equipment to achieve results are also important.

In addition, you should show evidence of the following personal qualities:

• a keen eye for detail and a critical mind;
• creativity;
• the ability to listen to others and to work well as part of a team;
• a high level of self-motivation, commitment and dedication;
• organisational skills and self/time management skills;
• communication skills, both written and oral.

A passionate interest in film/video editing should also be demonstrated, as well as being highly technically skilled in order to construct the product. You need to be extremely determined to succeed in editing, so you will have to show a willingness to get involved and be prepared to do the most basic of tasks. Getting to know the precision and intensity of this area of work will help you decide if it is for you. Gaining work experience will help with this and it may lead to a first job or training opportunity in editing.

Job vacancies are rarely advertised and competition is fierce even for entry-level jobs. Use creative job-seeking methods such as sending your skills-based CV to every production company and post-production house possible. Get to know people in the industry and make and maintain good working relationships. Entering competitions with 'DIY' projects is another way to be noticed.

See Skillset Careers  for further information and advice on entry into the industry, including information on the new entrants schemes, which provide long-term training in a range of professional areas in the industry.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.