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Authors are professional writers who write books for publication and sale, either fiction or non-fiction. They develop their original ideas into a storyline, pitch an agent or publishing company, then write the book. Alternately, emerging and self-published authors write the book first, and then look for ways to have it published.
As an author you could be creating an outline for a new novel, pitching a book idea to your publisher, writing a chapter of your book, carrying out preliminary research, editing a draft, sending a completed manuscript to your agent, reviewing proofs for book cover art, attending a book signing at a writer’s festival, speaking at a industry event, or just writing your heart out before the kids get home from school.
There are 5 courses available for people who want to become an Author.
Possible job outcomes:
The Bachelor of Arts (English) offers a comprehensive exploration of literary and cultural works spanning from medieval times to present day. It immerses students in diverse literary periods and regions, from Old and Middle English to modern global literatures, encompassing areas like literary theory, gender studies, film, linguistics, and creative writing. Students will gain proficiency in analyzing linguistic elements of texts, understanding their historical context, and recognizing their significance in both local and global cultures, while also cultivating critical analysis skills..
Average duration: 3 years.
The Bachelor of Arts (Creative Writing) allows students to express thoughts and feelings through writing, exploring avant-garde, cross-genre, and experimental forms. Students critically engage with contemporary theoretical and philosophical schools of thought, gaining knowledge in areas like fiction, poetry, non-fiction, theatre, and screen. This course nurtures lateral thinking and imagination, skills valuable in sectors like corporate communications, publishing, editing, and marketing. It prepares students for a dynamic career in the rapidly expanding creative sector, enhancing their ability to create impactful writings..
The Bachelor of Archaeology provides an in-depth understanding of the world's diverse cultural history, examining connections among past, present, and future societies. This course offers insights into the theories and trends influencing archaeology's evolution. Students engage in both laboratory studies and fieldwork, acquiring essential research skills for addressing intricate archaeological issues. Additionally, it fosters an appreciation for and adherence to modern cultural viewpoints and heritage practices. .
Average duration: 36 months.
The Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science fosters a blend of scientific analysis with cultural understanding and creativity. This course offers a global perspective on scientific knowledge, enhancing students' comprehension of themselves, their community, and the wider world. It aims to equip students to make significant contributions to society. This challenging educational pathway combines potent communication skills with scientific inquiry, culminating in a degree that is internationally recognised and valued in the global marketplace. .
Average duration: 4 years.
The Graduate Certificate in Creative Writing equips students with the skills to create compelling works across diverse genres for various audiences and markets. This course encourages critical thinking about the craft of writing and applying techniques in crafting both fiction and non-fiction. It also provides the opportunity to practice the art of storytelling, emphasising experimentation and innovation. Ideal for aspiring writers, this course fosters the development of creative writing skills and nurtures the ability to engage and captivate readers. .
Average duration: 12 months.
There are no clear salary figures for Authors in Australia at this time. They earn money from book sales as well as royalties and payments from publishing companies. Independent authors create revenue through self-publishing and running workshops, courses, and retreats. Some authors take on writing assignments for newspapers, magazines, literary journals, and online publications.
There are approximately 3,300 dedicated book authors working in Australia right now.
You don’t need a specialist qualification to become a Author, you just need to publish a book. However, the Certificate IV in Professional Writing and Editing and the Diploma of Professional Writing and Editing are excellent introductions to the Australian publishing industry and will help you develop professional-level writing and editing skills.
All aspiring Authors should consider the Bachelor of Arts (Profesional Writing) or Bachelor of Creative Writing. Both of these qualifications will develop your skills in both fiction and non-fiction writing. Some authors have specialist qualifications in their preferred genre: law, criminology, social science, community development, psychology, health and medicine, education.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights 2023
We’ll find nearby campuses and check if you’re eligible for funding in your state.
Here are some potential career pathways within journalism and writing. Click on an occupation to learn more about the role and the qualifications that can help you get started in this industry.
Journalism and Writing
Advertising Copywriter
$1,250 weekly pay
Author
$1,500 weekly pay
Book Editor
Columnist
Commentator
Content Executive
$1,340 weekly pay
Content Writer
Copywriter
Creative Writer
Digital Content Writer
Editorial Assistant
Editorial Writer
Foreign Correspondent
Freelance Writer
Journalist
Multimedia Writer
$1,150 weekly pay
Music Journalist
News Reporter
Newsreader
Novelist
Playwright
Presenter
Proofreader
Reporter
Science Journalist
Screenwriter
Scriptwriter
Speech Writer
Technical Writer
Writer
Content Manager
$1,920 weekly pay
Critic
Editor
$1,400 weekly pay
Feature Writer
$1,753 weekly pay