Careers in Publishing

Publishing is a process of providing printed information through books, magazines, journals, newspapers, database, and directories for mass circulation. Initially, publishing was restricted to print media, such as books and newspapers, but due to digital information systems and the Internet, its scope has spread to electronic media today. As such, one can find virtual books (e-books) on the Internet and in the form of CDs. To build a career in the field of publishing, one has to gain knowledge about its several techniques, including development, acquisition, copyediting, graphic designing, production, printing, marketing, and distribution of written materials and information through various media. In India, publishing as a career can prove to be very beneficial and lucrative, due to its extensive importance in both print and electronic media. Currently, there are many institutes in India offering courses in publishing. On completion of the course, students can find umpteen opportunities in private and government publishing houses, as a sub editor or assistance editor, production in-charge, sales & marketing manager. As an alternate, freelancing also makes a great option.

Course Details
Publishing courses are conducted by several educational institutions in India. These programs are offered at degree, diploma, and certificate levels. One can seek admission in a Bachelor of Arts (BA) program in book publishing, publishing professionals course, NBT training course in book publishing, or diploma in printing technology. Certain printing presses also conduct short-term courses or training courses in publishing. Generally, the eligibility criteria for joining a publishing course is successful completion of Higher Secondary Certificate Examination (10+2) from any recognized Board.

Career Prospects
Apart from jobs in the private sector, one can also approach government-run publishing houses. Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and Ministry of Education and Culture have their own publication divisions. Freshers can seek employment in the publication division of these ministries as an editor, assistant sub editor, sub editor, assistant editor, or associate editor. In the production department, individuals can work as production in-charge. The marketing department of publication houses also has sufficient job openings for freshers and experienced.

Top Colleges Offering UG/PG/Other Courses
The forefront institutes in India offering courses in publishing include Institute of Printing Technology (Kerala), Government Institute of Printing Technology (Andhra Pradesh), National Book Trust (Delhi), Shankar's Academy of Art and Book Publishing (Delhi), Institute Of Book Publishing (Delhi), Maharashtra Institute of Printing Technology (Pune), Government Institute of Printing Technology (Bangalore), Sadhna Academy for Media Studies (Noida), and Institute of Printing Technology (Chennai).

Remuneration
As far as remuneration in publishing sector is concerned, beginners can earn an initial salary of Rs. 8000 - Rs. 15,000 per month. Experienced professionals can expect better pays of about Rs. 20,000 - Rs. 25,000 per month. Those working as senior editors in publication houses can even draw a monthly salary of Rs. 50,000, or even higher.