Print production planner : Entry requirements

Although this area of work is open to all graduates and diploma students, a degree or HND in the following subjects may increase your chances:

• printing management;
• print media management;
• graphic communications;
• business studies.

Relevant degree and HND courses are available as follows:

• Edinburgh Napier University School of Arts and Creative Industries   
• Glasgow Metropolitan College   
• Print College, Leeds College of Technology   
• London College of Communication   

Degree and HND courses may cover different skills areas, so check the course content to make sure it suits the area of printing you want to work in. Courses may cover any of the following skills areas: pre-press; machine printing; finishing; sheet-fed printing press control; ICT; total quality management; digital pre-press; publishing; publishing production; desktop publishing; publication production; print buying; production management; printing processes; and print production.

Entry without a degree or HND is common and many employers are willing to provide training at work or on day-release training. Related qualifications in art, design, communications and information technology will also be helpful.

Postgraduate and professional courses are also available. In addition to subject knowledge, production planners are required to develop a variety of other skills and personal qualities.

Candidates will need to show evidence of the following skills:

• good organisational skills and the ability to prioritise work, set targets and make decisions;
• the ability to work accurately and methodically under pressure;
• IT knowledge;
• initiative, with problem-solving skills;
• numerical and verbal reasoning;
• a high level of communication abilities, as the production planner is often the link between the shop floor and management;
• appreciation of customer service;
• tact and the ability to persuade and negotiate.

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