masters of creative writing publishing and editing

Graduate Publishing and Writing (MA)

Advance your knowledge of today’s publishing and writing trends

GRE requirements

Award-winning literary journals on campus

Credit hours

About the Graduate Publishing and Writing Program

Emerson College’s on-campus Publishing and Writing MA program will help you discover your place in the ever-vital, ever-changing field of publishing. You will learn to shape the prose of fresh voices as an editor, represent writers as a literary agent, or work with exciting online publications and new media formats. 

Housed in the Department of Writing, Literature and Publishing in the School of the Arts, our program allows you to explore all facets of publishing in the publishing hub of Boston. Our experienced faculty provide a comprehensive overview of the publishing of books and magazine media via print, digital, video, social media, and other platforms. You will enjoy the flexibility to take a variety of creative writing and literature courses that suit your interests and goals.

Program Highlights 

• A dynamic curriculum that builds a solid foundation of skills in book, magazine, and digital publishing
• An emphasis on hands-on learning, with options such as working on the Emerson College-owned digital publication The Independent and with community partners (current and former partners include the Boston Globe Magazine , Bookbuilders of Boston, and Artists for Humanity)
• Internship opportunities at a wide variety of publishers (such as children's and adult trade, academic, magazine media, and news) and publishing-related firms
• Study full-time or part-time in person on our beautiful Boston campus
• Most classes, whether in-person or online, are offered in the evening to maximize flexibility
• Access to a vast alumni network
• No GRE requirements to apply

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Program details.

• Curriculum Requirements
• Emerson Advantage
• Tuition & Financial Aid

4+1 Bachelor’s to Master’s Program

Our Publishing and Writing MA program is available to current Emerson undergraduate students who are interested in pursuing a master’s degree in just one additional year. For more information, visit our 4+1 MA in Publishing page.

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• Popular Fiction Writing and Publishing (MFA)
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Creative Writing & Publishing

The Master’s University’s Creative Writing & Publishing (CWP) program is designed for students who are passionate about content creation across the changing and expanding spectrum of communicative media, including fiction and non-fiction, photography, videography, journalism, and podcasting. CWP students choose from a wide variety of courses that provide opportunities to develop their unique creative interests, and they graduate with content creation skills that are increasingly in-demand across diverse industries.

A key characteristic of the CWP program is that our students learn by doing. Classes are hands-on and provide regular opportunities for feedback and publication. CWP students graduate with not just a degree, but also a portfolio of creative work to show prospective employers and clients. If God has gifted you with a creative spark, and if you love inspiring others through what you create, the CWP program may be the perfect place for you to hone your talents and discover why God gave them to you in the first place!

Communication Core Courses

For a complete list of requirements for this degree please see our academic catalog .

In a day and age when on-the-street experiences are documented and shared worldwide, this class will explore the best go-to tool: the phone in your pocket. Students will create ready-to-be-viewed short video productions using minimalist technology. Throughout the course, students will focus on elements such as story structure, camera angle, lighting, editing, and sound. Finished productions will be viewed and critiqued by peers and the instructor.

An exploration of podcasting as a form of journalism. Students will be introduced to the various types of podcasts and podcast outlets. They will work with classmates to research a podcast concept and then regularly produce and publish it. Components of marketing and attracting subscribers will also be discussed. Computer expertise is not required.

Theories and techniques of social influence. Course content includes motivation, attitude change, ethics, credibility, nonverbal persuasion, logic and argumentation, emotions, and cultural influences.

An introduction to the dynamics of technologically mediated social discourse with a look at both individual implications as well as larger processes within society including culture, polity, and commercial enterprise.

An exploration of journal keeping and autobiographical writing. Students will read and write various types of personal essays and memoirs and share them in small group settings.

An introduction to the styles, techniques, content, and forms of screenwriting. Student work is considered for the department annual short film production.

This course will examine the entrepreneurial power shift in the world of business and what it means for media practitioners, entrepreneurs, and technologists. The disruptive nature of the Internet, open-source technologies, and lower barriers-to-entry have prompted a shift in the power from large media companies toward smaller organizations and individuals.

Students will study the extended short story form (novella), including plot, characterization, and dialogue. The course will include regular writing for peer review, offering ample time for revision and completion of a polished extended short story (novella).

Grammar basics and sentence structure are reinforced. However, the bulk of the course covers the real-world issues writers encounter in college and beyond. Issues such as word choice, antecedents, plurals, possessives, punctuation, clarity, conciseness, and self-editing. Chicago, MLA, and Associated Press style formats will be explored. Reading and coursework are also geared for those looking at editing as a career or see it as an important aspect of a chosen job field. Additional topics covered include “editing well means writing well,” the editor-writer relationship, and using style guides. Students learn by dissecting weekly news articles, editing articles for the campus newspaper, and self- and peer-editing various writing assignments.

Theories and methods of evaluating persuasive communication, including public address, contemporary drama, and other categories of written discourse.  Prerequisite: C371 or C391.

Students will explore the genre of science fiction short stories—how to read them critically and how to write them effectively. The course will cover the nuances and history of the different forms and motifs of science fiction to help students develop their writing skills across each of those forms and motifs. Prerequisite: C351.

Students will practice the craft of writing in the genre of fantasy fiction, with special emphasis placed on the novel and novel series formats. The course will focus on traditional fiction writing components such as plot, character, tone, setting, narrative, point of view, scene building, etc. Additionally, students will engage in discussion and guided practice surrounding genre-specific elements such as world building, history creation, systems of myth and magic, etc.

This course explores the history and impact of the graphic novel, both as a form of entertainment and social/cultural commentary. Additionally, the course will explore the process of creating a graphic novel and of visual storytelling. Students will participate in the creation of a graphic novel concept. Prerequisite: C351.

Students learn the techniques of novel writing, including plot outlining, character development and arcing, conflict, complication, and resolution. Techniques of dialogue and narration will also be explored.

Introduction to the video technical language and creative and aesthetic elements of the production process. Students will gain understanding of lighting, sound, camera operation, composition, and design of visual elements.

This class introduces the students to the concepts of Desktop Publishing. Topics covered will include color theory, page layout, composition, print requirements, and other production-related techniques. The applications used in this class are Adobe™ Photoshop™ for image editing, Adobe™ Illustrator™ for logo design, and Adobe™ InDesign™ for page layout and composition.

Visual storytelling through making, selecting, processing, and disseminating photographic images. Technical, artistic, and professional topics are covered, including composition, lighting, portraiture, photo essays, and reproducing and publishing images, as well as legal and ethical issues.

An introduction to the arena of multimedia journalism. Students will learn the process of combining text, images, sound, videos, and graphics to tell an engaging story on an online platform. Students will produce finished pieces to be viewed and critiqued by peers and the instructor. Prerequisite: C261 or C311.

Students are introduced to the basics of professional journalism to gain an understanding of how a publication works; develop instincts as an interviewer, reporter, and writer; and understand the various genres associated with journalistic writing. Students will also learn to develop editing skills by using the Associated Press Stylebook and write on deadline to prepare for writing for the campus publication and beyond.

From handheld to professional SLR cameras, students will learn the basics of equipment and advanced methods to make photographs look more professional. This class will cover how to connect, download, and upload your digital images to CDs, the web, or for print. Everything from file management to composition, this class covers a wide range of techniques to make students better, more effective photographers.

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To be admitted as an undergraduate, bachelors degree-seeking student in the Online School of Education, you must meet the following requirements:

• Have a clear profession of faith in Jesus Christ as your personal Savior. 
• Be a high school graduate or have a GED certificate. 
• Demonstrate college-level writing ability. 
• Submit official transcripts from all other colleges and universities attended. 

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MFA in Creative Writing & Publishing Arts

• Scholarships

Creative Writing at UBalt

• WRITE  fiction, nonfiction and poetry in an MFA program named one of the most distinctive in the country by  Poets & Writers  magazine .
• GRADUATE  with the professional-level skills to write, edit, publish and promote your best work.
• BECOME  part of a dynamic, creative community at the heart of Baltimore's artistic district.
• FIND  your voice and learn to make it heard!

Our Graduates

2023 Plork Prize Winners

2023 Graduates

• Click the video to watch highlights from the 2023 MFA Graduate Reading and Book Fair

2022 Graduates

• Click the video to watch highlights from the 2022 MFA Graduate Reading and Book Fair

2021 Graduates

• View the 2021 MFA author catalog
• Watch the 2021 Virtual MFA Graduate Reading and Book Fair

2020 Graduates' Book Cover Images

2019 Graduates

2018 Graduates

2017 Graduates

2016 Graduates

Hear what our alums have to say...

"Writing, to me, is home. It is a messy, loud, way too bright, often chaotic—crayon scribbles on the wall and hot-pink bubblegum under the couches, never quiet, welcoming place. The talented professors in the MFA program gave me the tools I needed to organize my 'home.' They let my writing remain big and loud, but helped me rein in some of my more wild ideas. The crayon scribbles remain, but now I know when to scrape the bubblegum off. I am graduating with a completed book that I am incredibly proud of, a supportive writing community, and gratitude to myself for choosing UBalt's Creative Writing & Publishing Arts program."

- Emily Hansen , MFA '20 Hush Girls emilyandherwords.com

"I chose UBalt because it really felt like a family and fostered an environment that gave me the opportunity to express myself and expand my horizons as a writer and a person."

- Abby Shaffer , MFA '16 Xantan County etsy.com/shop/shopfives

"I chose UBalt’s MFA in Creative Writing & Publishing Arts because it was the only program that let me explore my love for book arts and fiction simultaneously."

- Bryonna Sieck , MFA '20 Those Who Fly 1134press.com

"I chose the MFA program at UBalt because it's one of a kind. The program doesn't just focus on the writing, it focuses on the writer. It increased my confidence exponentially. I can't recommend this program enough!"

- Erin Drew , MFA '16 This Is How I Thought Things Were Done

“ More than anything else, UBalt's program allowed me to work with amazing writers and editors. It's really the friends and colleagues I made there who pushed my own work to a better place. ”

- Justin Sanders , MFA '16 For All the Other Ghosts

Top 10 Reasons Our Students Love This Program:

Entrepreneur says he wishes he had taken a creative writing course in college

In a recent  Wall Street Journal  article, entrepreneurs share some of the key skills they wish they had learned in school instead of on the job. For Dennis Vu, co-founder and CEO of Ringblaze, an Irvine, California provider of business-phone solutions, that skill was creative writing. Vu estimates that about half of his time is spent writing, whether emails to users or prospective investors or blog posts. Being able to write more eloquently, concisely and persuasively would make his job easier.

“It would have helped me quite a lot with marketing, creating some of my own content and working on building my brand,” Mr. Vu says. He currently uses ghostwriters to write blog posts under his byline that he helps create, but he would like to be able to write them himself. “While it’s easier than ever to find a ghostwriter, it would be great to sit down and write my own content, share my own thoughts and have my own personal blog.”

Read the full article: " The College Courses Entrepreneurs Wish They Had Taken "

MFA Q&A

Got questions? We've got answers. Watch our 10-minute Q&A with program director Betsy Boyd to learn more about the MFA in Creative Writing & Publishing Arts program.

Betsy Boyd program director, MFA in Creative Writing & Publishing Arts assistant professor, Klein Family School of Communications Design email: [email protected] | phone: 410.837.6272 view Prof. Boyd's faculty profile

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• Join our Facebook group,  University of Baltimore MFA in Creative Writing and Publishing Arts .

For more information about graduate admission, please contact the Office of Admission at [email protected] , 410.837.6565.

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• MS in Publishing: Digital and Print Media

MS in Publishing

Study on-site.

The MS in Publishing offers students real-world experience in book publishing and digital/magazine media. Taught by top executives in the publishing and media industries, the program helps students to develop skills in creating and editing content for multiple platforms and formats including print, web, mobile, video, audiobooks, ebooks, and podcasts. In addition, the program puts a strong emphasis upon other key areas in publishing and media, including, marketing and publicity, finance, digital media management, content development, and more. By the time they graduate, students have acquired a deep understanding of all of the key publishing functions. Study abroad in the form of global volunteer opportunities, industry visits to publishing houses and media companies, and invaluable internships provide for a first-rate NYU education in NYC, the publishing and media capital of the world.

Degree Advantage

• 36-credit program of study
• Prepares you for a career in publishing and digital / magazine media
• Core curriculum and dedicated study of key areas that align with the functions of the publishing industry—content development, marketing and distribution, and media profitability
• Faculty of leading publishing industry executives
• Full-time (attending courses four evenings a week) and part-time study options
• Global volunteer opportunities and industry visits
• Internships at top publishers and media companies
• Networking events and opportunities

VIEW FULL CURRICULUM AND DEGREE REQUIREMENTS >

Explore graduate opportunities at nyu sps.

Join an upcoming online session to learn more about our graduate degree programs including the MS in Publishing. As an attendee of an Explore Graduate Opportunities at NYU SPS session, you will meet members of our team and have the opportunity to ask questions about the program and application process.

6:00 PM until 7:30 PM EDT  

Who Should Earn the MS in Publishing?

The publishing industry has many facets and offers a wide range of different options for those just launching their careers, as well as those who are already in publishing or a related industry. The MS in Publishing takes you beyond a traditional editorial curriculum into the technology-driven, digitally-focused, and business-oriented aspects of the industry, positioning you for success in the areas where talent is in highest demand. If you seek to build your skills and your network in the publishing and media capital of the world, then this degree is for you!

DEGREE OVERVIEW VIDEO

Acquire In-demand Skills in Growing Specialty Areas

The MS in Publishing offers areas of study that align with the publishing industry: Media Content Development, Media Marketing and Distribution, and Media Profitability . Each area of specialty provides the distinct skills and business acumen to prepare you for the publishing industry of the future—one that is ripe with opportunity for those who are equipped with the knowledge, insights, and connections that will set them apart.

Gain a Global Perspective

The MS in Publishing is based in New York City, the publishing capital of the world, but it is connected to a multibillion-dollar network of international business, with critical hubs in Europe and Asia. As a student enrolled in this program, you may have the opportunity to gain a truly global perspective through the ability to volunteer international book fairs and conferences. Previous students have enjoyed the opportunity to attend at the Frankfurt Book Fair, the Bologna Children's Book Fair, the London Book Fair, and the Beijing Book Fair, among others.

Build an Invaluable Professional and Personal Network

In publishing, building relationships and networking are critical for success. The MS in Publishing and the Summer Publishing Institute (see below) are both grounded in a close-knit community of students, faculty members, and alums, whose influence spans the globe. Students in the MS in Publishing also have the opportunity to join the award winning NYU Publishing Student Association. By the time you earn your degree or complete the SPI program, you will have developed a network that will greatly enhance your career options.

Industry Visits and Internships

Through the MS in Publishing and the NYU Wasserman Center for Career Development at NYU SPS, our students have the opportunity to complete publishing internships that provide the hands-on experience needed to compete for publishing and media-focused jobs. Many of these internships evolve into permanent positions or consulting jobs.  97% (average of Classes from 2017-2021) of our students reported being employed within six months of graduation. Our graduates go on to a wide range of careers in a broad array of companies and organizations including:

• Hachette Book Group
• HarperCollins Publishers
• Hearst Magazines
• Dotdash Meredith
• Penguin Random House
• Simon & Schuster
• Workman Publishing

Summer Publishing Institute (SPI)

SPI is a four-week intensive dedicated to the study of books and digital magazine/media conducted in New York City.

FEATURED FACULTY

Jesse b christian.

Center for Publishing

Fabio B Bertoni

Jessica m dodell-feder, departmental highlights, a day at condé nast: exploring the intersection of culture, fashion, and media, meet the new spring 2024 faculty, passion, creativity & good journalism: a look into the cool, modern world of huffpost, pala academic director of continuing education jenny mcphee’s translation of elsa morante’s novel ‘lies and sorcery’ wins accolades, scribe at spirit week: the translated and queer/banned book expo, networking with confidence: janel abrahami tells how, tamil writer from india awarded fulbright fellowship to pursue publishing degree at nyu sps, #nyu reads: the braiding sweetgrass story, meet the new fall 2022 faculty, meet the new spring 2022 faculty, frequently asked questions, what types of jobs are available in publishing.

The types of jobs available in publishing vary widely. Graduates of our program are working as book and digital/magazine editors, marketers, and publicists, and in sales and audience development positions at major media and publishing companies. They also are employed at literary agencies and in a wide range of areas including audiobooks, podcasts, video, and more. The industry is so broad that the opportunities are almost limitless.

How does this publishing degree differ from others?

The degree differs from others in that we emphasize a knowledge of all key publishing functions, whereas other degrees offer concentrations in a specific area such as design or marketing and publicity. With the team-based focus of the publishing industry in mind, an immersive knowledge of content creation, marketing and distribution, and profitability is critical to student success.

In addition, we put a very strong focus on real-world, real-workplace industry learning and experience. While other degrees may emphasize publishing theory, the NYU SPS MS in Publishing encompasses both theory and practical, hands-on study of all key topics. Most assignments are simulations of tasks encountered in the workplace. Students are invited to visit publishing and media companies to gain an inside understanding of how businesses operate. Faculty members and guest speakers, all senior industry experts, introduce students to the latest business strategies and practices. A strong emphasis on networking, global trips to book fairs and conferences when available, and elective internships all contribute to a unique, industry-forward approach to preparing students for careers in publishing.

What skills are required for a career in publishing?

The skills and attributes required to succeed in publishing include curiosity and an interest in a wide range of topics. Publishing is a world of content and ideas, and a desire to shape and disseminate information is important. Those entering the industry need strong writing and communication skills, a knowledge of digital formats and assets including podcasts and video, and an understanding of marketing and social media, as well as sales and audience development, to name a few areas of expertise. As noted, this is a broad industry and the specific skills may vary according to position and the type of publishing or media business. Generally, digital media management and content management skills are important.

What's the difference between book publishing & digital/magazine publishing?

The NYU SPS MS in Publishing includes courses in book publishing as well as digital/magazine media. While book publishers create physical and digital books and media companies focus increasingly on digital-first (with some print) content, both use many of the same areas of expertise: good writing and communication skills, as well as a knowledge of marketing and audience development, sales, and distribution. Students may choose to focus their studies more on book publishing or digital/magazine media, but the skills are often transferable.

Why do I need a graduate degree in publishing to enter the industry?

You need a graduate degree in publishing to enter the industry because this is a complex business with multiple skills and areas of expertise needed. The NYU SPS MS in Publishing degree introduces students to all key aspects of the industry through its areas of study as well as industry outreach. This deep and broad knowledge helps to make students highly valuable to employers. The reputation of the program for providing exceptionally well-trained students with practical skills is an important factor in hiring and promotion. Furthermore, the networking and industry outreach, faculty of leading publishing professionals, and internship opportunities are invaluable in opening doors and providing access that may otherwise be unattainable.

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• MA Creative Writing and Publishing

Pursue your goals in a robust environment

Master’s in Creative Writing and Publishing

Words have power.

The MA program in Creative Writing and Publishing is focused on intensive practice in the craft of creative writing, as well as training in the theory and practice of publishing. In addition to participating in poetry, fiction, and creative-non-fiction workshops, students can take courses in literature, pedagogy, and cultural studies. Classes are capped at 14 students, allowing for lively classroom engagement and personalized attention. The flexibility of our evening course schedule allows students to engage in a rigorous program while pursuing other career and personal goals.

Program Learning Outcomes

• Students in the Master of Arts in Creative Writing and Publishing program will be able to demonstrate the ability to produce a sustained literary work of professional quality written as poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, young adult literature, or a hybrid form. This work will demonstrate technical confidence, mature inquiry into literary form, and a well-developed individual voice or aesthetic.
• Demonstrate the ability to analyze literature and articulate responses on craft with acuity and depth. This includes discussion of form and language; literary and cultural contexts; and predecessors, genres, and historical traditions.
• Appraise and place their own work within literary and cultural contexts.
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Get a feel for the program

Life as a Student

Work closely with faculty on your projects, gain access to a vibrant publishing community, and come out of the program with a chapbook-length creative writing manuscript. Students in our program receive a level of support and attention that other institutions reserve for doctoral-level students.

Master of Arts in Creative Writing & Publishing

This program is comprised of 10 three-credit courses (30 credits total).

Curriculum includes:

• An introductory course that provides a theoretical and practical foundation for advanced study of creative writing and publishing.
• Four creative writing workshops that reinforce concepts and skills by providing genre-specific applications.
• One Power and Identity course that examines issues of identity and power in the construction, theorization, or interpretation of texts written by, about, or addressed to marginalized groups.
• Three English electives , such as courses in literature, pedagogy, linguistics, or professional writing/editing.
• Master's Project: a chapbook-length portfolio of 40-50 pages such as a collection of poetry, literary fiction, young adult fiction or creative nonfiction. Students then present their project to a review committee of a faculty advisor and two additional faculty readers and should demonstrate a high level of cogency and stylistic grace.

Our Annual Summer Publishing Institute

Non-Degree Options

If you've been out of school for a while or aren't sure about pursuing this degree, taking non-degree classes might be an ideal choice. When you sign up you will still participate as a full class member with a variety of students and faculty members. This option also gives you the chance to create a writing sample that can be used in the degree-seeking application. From there you can evaluate whether the program's offerings fit your needs, interests and abilities.

• Apply for Non-degree

Financial Aid and Work Opportunities

Graduate teaching fellow (gtf), teaching mentorships, research grants, internship opportunities, writing consultant positions.

GTF will support a faculty instructor who is assigned to teach core courses in the Dougherty Family College. The GTF will attend all class sessions; help grade informal and formal writing assignments; update/coordinate Blackboard and other forms of course record-keeping; lead class activities or discussions on select topics; and mentor students individually and in small groups. They will also work in the Scholars Resource Center as a writing tutor.

The Master of Arts in English Program funds five Teaching Mentorships each year for students interested in teaching. Students are paired with a full-time faculty member to shadow and assist them in teaching an undergraduate course. Students will help teach, design assignments, meet with students, and more. These Mentorships are paid per hour with a maximum of 60 hours over the semester.

$10,000 Graduate Team Research Grant

This University of St. Thomas grant funds teams of St. Thomas faculty and graduate student(s) who work together on a significant research project or creative activity over an 8-12 week period during the summer.

$1,000 Student Research Grant

The Graduate English Student Research Grant provides funding to support student research involving domestic or international travel to visit archives, libraries, museums, and other research sites.

Conference Grants

Students attending conferences and presenting a paper may request a conference participation grant of up to $500.

The skills you learn as an English major/minor—critical thinking, close reading, analysis, writing, and editing to name a few—are more important than ever in a society where more words are being produced than at any other time in history because of the internet. All students are encouraged to learn experientially through an internship, part-time job, or volunteerism. The below internship opportunities are suggestions for local Minnesota positions where you can begin to imagine connections between the work you do in the classroom and the life you will build for yourself after graduation. Interns have worked at 1517 Media , The Loft Literary Center , Milkweed Editions , Redleaf Press , and elsewhere.

Through these positions, graduate students gain experience working one-on-one with undergraduate and graduate students, gain insight into writing theory and pedagogy (including collaborative learning, process theory, writing across the curriculum, basic writing, and ESL), and learn writing center administration.

Visit the Center for Writing Website

Our faculty members are award-winning writers who have published with some of the country's finest presses. They have close ties to many of the region's best publishers, including Coffee House Press, Graywolf Press and Milkweed Editions. Students work closely with faculty mentors throughout their graduate studies, culminating a chapbook-length creative project at the conclusion of the program.

Dr. Matthew Batt

Matthew Batt is author of the memoirs The Last Supper Club and Sugarhouse. His fiction and nonfiction have been featured in the New York Times, Outside Magazine, the Huffington Post, Tin House, and elsewhere. He has been the recipient of grants from the National Endowment for the Arts, the McKnight Foundation, and the Aspen Writers' Institute.

His latest memoir, The Last Supper Club, is the story of how he, a forty-something professor on sabbatical, found himself returning to a job waiting tables. And loving it. In the rare and vivid memoir, he details the challenge and satisfaction of meeting the demands of a fine dining restaurant's frenzied kitchen and equally expectant crowd. Told with sharp humor, humility, and a keen sense of what matters, The Last Supper Club is an ode to working in restaurants, the relationships that get you to the night's close, and finding yourself through—or perhaps because of—the chaos of it all.

Dr. Leslie Miller

Since the publication of her first poem in a nationally recognized journal, Beloit Poetry Journal, in 1977, Dr. Miller has published six full length collections of poetry, Y , The Resurrection Trade , and Eat Quite Everything You See with Graywolf Press , and Yesterday Had a Man In It , Ungodliness , and Staying Up for Love with Carnegie Mellon University Press .

The journey has also included fellowships from the National Endowment for the Arts, fellowships and grants for travel in Germany, France, Scotland, Switzerland and Indonesia, as well as opportunities to teach and read at writers' festivals, university writing programs, medical schools, the Library of Congress, and the National Institutes for Health.

Dr. Heather Bouwman

Dr. Bouwman writes novels for young people—chapter books for emerging readers and fantasy novels for ages 10+. Her most recent books are the middle-grade fantasy A Crack in the Sea and its companio n, A Tear in the Ocean , and the Owen and Eleanor chapter book series .

Heather especially loves historical fantasy, genre mashups, fairy tale retellings, and multiplotted novels. She loves reading and teaching fantasy; YA and children's literature; and American novels from the late 1790's forward.

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The program is designed to take advantage of the robust publishing industry in the Twin Cities. As Publishing Trendsetter recently noted, “It's no exaggeration to call Minneapolis the publishing capital of the Midwest.” Graduates of our program will be well prepared to find internships and employment in this growing industry.

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Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing, Editing, and Publishing

The Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing, Publishing, and Editing is designed

• to assist students in their development as writers of fiction, poetry, and/or creative nonfiction;
• to provide practical, hands-on experience in the field of editing and publishing;
• to deepen a student’s critical engagement with language and literature, and
• to prepare students for careers as published authors, as well as teachers of creative writing in community colleges and universities, secondary schools, prisons, libraries, and community centers of various types.

Additional information : Reference the Program Landing Page for additional information, such as cost, delivery format, contact information, or to schedule a visit

Students seeking admission to the MFA in Creative Writing, Editing, and Publishing must supply the following materials directly to the Office of Graduate Admissions:

• Graduate Application : The Graduate Application is an institutional application required by SHSU. Students must provide biographical and educational information and information relevant to determining State of Texas residency.
• Application fee : An application fee is required for all applications to graduate programs at SHSU.
• A statement of purpose, of 500 to 1000 words, articulating the applicant's intentions for pursuing an MFA from our program.
• Transcripts documenting all prior degrees.* (Note: Students with credentials from foreign universities must have their transcripts reviewed by a transcript evaluation service.)
• Three letters of recommendation that discuss the applicant’s potential for success in a creative writing graduate program.
• A creative writing sample of either 20 pages of prose or a collection of 8 - 10 poems.
• International applicants ONLY: Official TOEFL scores​

The MFA Program only accepts applicants for the Fall semester; the priority deadline for applying to the Fall semester is March 15th.

*Applicants may submit unofficial transcripts for review by the admissions committee. However, under university policy, admission decisions are contingent upon receipt of official transcripts.

The MFA Program welcomes qualified international applicants; however, an individual who does not hold American citizenship must be accepted in regular admission status, without qualifications.

A holistic review of each applicant's file will be completed, and admission will be granted on a competitive basis.

Note: Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.

To earn the MFA in English, students must complete a minimum of forty-eight hours of graduate credit with a focus in either Fiction, Creative Nonfiction, or Poetry, as indicated below.

• All MFA students are required to take  ENGL 5340  at the first opportunity.
• Before beginning work on a thesis or undertaking a directed study, the student must have completed at least twelve hours of graduate English coursework at Sam Houston State University, including ENGL 5340 in good standing.
• All MFA students complete a two-semester thesis sequence ( ENGL 6096  and ENGL 6097 ).
• All MFA students must pass the MFA program's portfolio requirement. Students must be enrolled in the University for the terms in which they complete and defend the portfolio.
• A student may take ENGL 5312  twice, with approval of the Department Chair.

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) marketable skills initiative is part of the state’s 60x30TX plan and was designed to help students articulate their skills to employers.  Marketable skills are those skills valued by employers and/or graduate programs that can be applied in a variety of work or education settings and may include interpersonal, cognitive, and applied skill areas.

The MFA in Creative Writing, Editing, and Publishing is designed to provide graduates with the following marketable skills:

• Effective written and oral communication.
• Critical Thinking.
• Editing skills for publishing industry.
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For students interested in, writing, publishing, editing, photography, and graphic design.

Communication

B.a. communication, creative writing and publishing emphasis, career paths.

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--> creative writing and publishing.

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Fiction and non-fiction, photography, videography, journalism, and podcasting

Content creation with a purpose.

Students take courses that provide opportunities to develop their unique creative interests and graduate with content creation skills in demand across diverse industries. Students learn by doing, and classes are hands-on and provide regular opportunities for feedback and publication. Students graduate with a portfolio of creative work to show prospective employers and clients. If God has gifted you with a creative spark, and if you love inspiring others through what you create, the CWP program may be the perfect place to hone your talents and discover why God gave them to you in the first place.

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School of business & communication.

For the person called to a large corporate environment and the person pursuing journalism — and everything in between — the School of Business & Communication provides an unparalleled preparation by equipping each student with the skills, wisdom, and networks to serve their company, church, and community with excellence.

Our Doctrinal Statement

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Elevate your love for writing to a professional level.

Emphasis courses.

Explore a wide range of creative writing courses. From fundamentals of drawing & design, travel writing, and journaling to screenwriting, freelance entrepreneurship, and poetry writing. Dive into the world of fiction with science fiction and fantasy literature courses. Unleash your creativity with novel writing and graphic novel classes. Learn the art of copyediting, advertising copywriting, and writing for publication. Develop your storytelling skills with multimedia storytelling and magazine writing workshops.

Touches every realm of life

• Located within 30 miles of most major studios in Los Angeles provides top internship and career opportunities
• Student news site and printed newspaper, “The Mane”, curated by students
• Diverse student projects such as graphic novels, short films, and feature-length productions, which will be used in their professional portfolios
• Options to study abroad in Israel, Italy, and 10+ GO! locations
• Complete 20+ Bible units or a Bible minor
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Study abroad, example courses.

An exploration of journal keeping and autobiographical writing. Students will read and write various types of personal essays and memoirs and share them in small group settings.

Social and political movements as rhetorical phenomena. Ideology and influence of recent movements will be analyzed.

An advanced course in production. Students will have the opportunity to create and produce a short film with a professional film crew.

This course will examine the entrepreneurial power shift in the world of business and what it means for media practitioners, entrepreneurs, and technologists.

“I’m really blessed to be here and to be under godly teaching every day. I love the diversity you get in the Communication Department. You get to take quite a bit of classes. I’ve taken journalism, public relations and business communication...I have so many different career options I can take because of my major.”

“How do we function in a society when we can’t trust the facts that we hear or read about every day? How do we spot propaganda? How do we spot an outright lie? What about journalism can we trust? Join Dr. Bob Dickson, award-winning Associated Press journalist, as he tackles the ways journalism gets slanted and how we as Christians can evaluate the news to guide our biblical worldview.”

Dr. Robert Dickson

Program director.

Dr. Robert Dickson, Chairperson, Communication Department Associate Professor Of Communication, is a professional writer and long-time teacher. With a background as a sports writer, Dr. Dickson has received several awards for his work. His writing has been published in various magazines, newspapers, and the Chicken Soup for the Soul series. He also has experience as a writer at Grace to You.

Program Learning Outcomes

Communication core courses, creative writing & publishing emphasis courses, online track.

This emphasis offers a course of study for students interested in the various aspects of print and electronic publication content creation, including writing, publishing, editing, photography, and graphic design.

• Effectively incorporate a biblical worldview in writing as appropriate for the situation.
• Write effectively in several forms and genres, including short stories, essays, memoirs, and features.
• Demonstrate a working knowledge of photography (portrait and journalistic), and photo editing for the purpose of producing print and digital documents.
• Demonstrate basic proficiency in textual editing for elements of story, style, grammar, tone, and institutional appropriateness.

Total units required for core courses: 15

• C472 Rhetorical Criticism
• C220 News Media Literacy
• C371 Interpersonal Communication (3)
• C391 Intercultural Communication (3)
• C254 Journal and Autobiographical Writing (3)
• C261 Introduction to Journalism (3)
• C321 Screenwriting I (3)
• C351 Creative Writing (3)
• C382 Persuasion (3)
• C481 Argumentation & Debate (3)

Total units required for emphasis: 48

Eleven of the following:

• C121 Fundamentals of Drawing and Design (3)
• C122 Social Media and Communication (3)
• C132 Podcast Studio (3)
• C138 Photo Journalism (3)
• C142 Photoshop (3)
• C201 Digital Photography (3)
• C231 Digital Video Editing I (3)
• C234 Travel Writing (Directed Study) (3)
• C254 Journal & Autobiographical Writing* (3)
• C261 Introduction to Journalism* (3)
• C304 Advanced Photography (3)
• C308 Entrepreneurship for Creatives (3)
• C320 Newspaper Workshop (3)
• C321 Screenwriting I* (3)
• C331 Freelance: Entrepreneurship in the Digital Age (3)
• C338 Multimedia Storytelling (3)
• C341 Magazine Writing (3)
• C351 Creative Writing* (3)
• C352 Editing I, Principles of Copyediting (3)
• C368 Fundamentals of Advertising Copywriting (3)
• C372 Science Fiction Writing (3)
• C373 Graphic Design I (3)
• C378 Fantasy Fiction Writing (3)
• C398 Content Streaming Workshop (3)
• C404 Graphic Design II (3)
• C430 Honors Internship (1-9)
• C432 Sports Journalism (3)
• C441 Poetry Writing (3)
• C448 Rhetoric of Fantasy Literature (3)
• C452 Editing II, Advanced Copyediting (3)
• C459 Novel Writing (Directed Study by instructor
• approval) (3)
• C462 Creative Writing II (3)
• C471 Writing for Publication (3)
• C482 The Graphic Novel (3)
• C492 In-Depth Reporting (3)

Also Acceptable ( maximum of 3 units applicable ):

• CS288W Web Design (3)
• E299c Studies in Anime (3)
• E333 Drama as Literature (3)
• E334 The Short Story (3)
• E336 Poetry and Poetics (3)
• E348 Genre Studies: Detective Fiction (3)
• E499r Gothic: The Art of Fear (3)
• TH201 Introduction to Acting (3)
• TH300 Theatre Arts (3)
• TH310 Theatre Production (3)

Required: C499 CWP Senior Capstone

*Does not count as an elective if used to satisfy the core requirement.

The B.A. in Creative Writing & Publishing is also offered in the 8-week, 100% online format.

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• Graduate Studies

Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing and Publishing (MFA-CW)

Choose to specialize in fiction, poetry, or creative nonfiction in this one-of-a-kind, low residency MFA creative writing program.

We are a small, low-residency MFA program designed to fit your schedule. Our expert faculty offer one-on-one guidance in a genre of your choosing: poetry, novels, short stories, or creative nonfiction.

Together with these residencies, our on-line semesters help students shape their MFA degrees into a writing, teaching, or publishing career. Work with and learn from some of the finest writers in the United States, Ireland, Scotland, and Canada.

Come write your story with us!

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Meet your Mentors

Some of our Visiting Writers

During our home residencies, visiting writers have included award-winning and best-selling writers such as Dean Koontz, Marilyn Nelson, William Kent Kreuger, Joseph Bruchac, Jane Friedman, John Grogan, Matt Bell, Paula Yoo, Lee Upton, and Lia Purpura.

In Scotland, Ireland, and Canada, we work with many award-winning writers of the Celtic world, among them: Emma Donoghue (shortlisted for Man Booker and Orange Prizes); Kathleen Jamie (Makar or Poet Laureate of Scotland); Sue Goyette (Poet Laureate of Halifax); James Robertson (Walter Scott Award Winner); Donal Ryan (EU Literature Prize); and Vona Groarke (Brendan Behan Memorial Award).

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• Fine Arts Degrees
• Master of Arts in Creative Writing

Welcome aspiring writers to Houston Christian University’s Master of Arts in Creative Writing. This 30-hour workshop-based program provides focused training in fiction, poetry, and creative writing within a supportive Christian environment.

HCU’s flexible MA in Creative Writing enables students to take their writing to the next level through electives in the study of creative non-fiction writing or screenwriting, creative writing techniques and genres, and integration seminars exploring faith and the arts.

Whether a student is seeking to publish work, progress in a career, or simply grow as an artist, Houston Christian’s MA in Creative Writing provides the instruction and mentorship students need to thrive.

MA in Creative Writing Degree Highlights

• 30-hour, workshop-based MA degree in creative writing
• Fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction writing workshops
• Studies in foundational craft elements and literary genres
• Supportive Christian environment emphasizing excellence and ethics
• Small classes focused on mentorship

MA in Creative Writing Curriculum and Format

HCU’s 30-hour Master of Arts in Creative Writing degree builds upon the skillset that students have through workshops. Students establish a foundation with studies into poetic and fiction technique courses before elevating their knowledge in core writing workshops. The Master of Arts in Creative Writing degree empowers students with electives to support their areas of interest.

The curriculum covers essential elements of craft while helping students refine their individual voices through intensive writing and feedback. Small classes allow for personalized attention from published faculty.

Students work closely with an advisor to select 18 credits of core workshops and technique classes in fiction and poetry. An additional 12 credits of electives allow further specialization.

Creative Writing Degree Outcomes

The Master of Arts in Creative Writing opens doors to new opportunities in publishing, media, marketing, and education. With training in fiction, poetry, and creative writing, graduates gain versatile and transferable skills applicable across industries. Beyond growing in the craft of writing, this degree can also open doors to new opportunities in publishing, media, marketing, and education.

Publishing and Editing

With refined creative writing and communication skills, graduates are empowered to pursue work in the publishing industry as editors, copywriters, content developers, and manuscript readers. Master’s level training provides an advantage when seeking these competitive roles. Students gain experience editing and providing feedback on peers’ writing that proves invaluable for a successful publishing career

Writing and Media Careers

Expertise gained in the MA Creative Writing program equips students for careers as professional writers, journalists, scriptwriters, speechwriters, technical writers, grant writers, and freelance writing and blogging. Strong writing skills are assets in corporate communications, marketing, public relations, and nonprofit/ministry work. Media outlets also seek advanced creative writing skills.

With a master’s degree, graduates may teach writing and literature courses at the secondary or post-secondary level. Writers adept in theory and practice can inspire future voices. Many initially teach as adjuncts or lecturers while pursuing a terminal MFA or PhD degree to access tenure-track positions at colleges and universities.

Arts Administration

MA graduates may work for literary journals, libraries, museums, arts councils, and other organizations involved in promoting literary arts, planning community events, managing outreach programs, directing workshops, and processing submissions.

Continuing Education

The master’s degree cultivates lifelong learning habits that advance careers. Alumni return for doctoral programs, MFAs, post-graduate certificates, or additional master’s degrees to further specialize. The MA also provides foundational knowledge for law and PhD programs. Strong writing proficiency serves graduates in any field.

With Houston Christian University’s stellar reputation, the Master of Arts in Creative Writing degree signals advanced achievement and expertise to employers across sectors. Optional internships provide hands-on experience to further boost career prospects. Our Creative Writing alumni thrive as successful published authors, editors, journalists, educators, and more.

Master of Arts in Creative Writing Degree Plan

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Creative Writing, Editing, & Publishing , Master of Fine Arts

Available: On Campus

Launched in 2012, the Master of Fine Arts program in Creative Writing, Editing, and Publishing is a 48-hour workshop-based residency program that allows you to:

• focus on poetry, fiction, or creative non-fiction;
• enjoy intensive instruction with dedicated professors;
• gain practical publishing experience through SHSU's Texas Review Press and Texas Review .

In addition, students participate in writing workshops in fiction and poetry, undertake coursework in literary periods and types, and study narrative and poetic theory.

MFA candidates present an MFA thesis: a book-length work (minimum 80 pages for poetry and 160 pages for prose—novel, short-story collection, essay collection, or other work of creative non-fiction).

Dual Degree Option

Students interested in advanced graduate work in both creative writing and academic literary studies may consider the English, MA & the Creative Writing, Editing, and Publishing, MFA dual degree option. The dual degree program allows students to earn both degrees through a single 60-hour program.

Program Breakdown

Application deadlines.

• Fall: August 1

The deadline for full consideration (i.e., to be considered for graduate assistantships) is March 15 (Fall) .

Please note that application deadlines will occasionally change. Please contact your academic advisor (listed in the contact section) for confirmation on application deadlines.

Contact Info

Office of admissions.

• Graduate Admissions Website
• 936.294.1971
• [email protected]

Program Director

• Professor Nick Lantz
• 936.294.1990
• [email protected]

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Home > Postgraduate study > Postgraduate courses > Creative Writing and Publishing MA

Creative Writing and Publishing MA

Why choose this course.

This course examines not only the craft of writing, but also how the publishing industry works. You will develop a creative writing portfolio alongside studying trends in the industry.

The creative writing element of this course is workshop-led, with opportunity to specialise in the genre of your choice. The publishing element focuses on marketing-led commercial and trade publishing, industry structure and core skills.

For your final assessment, you may choose a creative writing dissertation, a publishing dissertation or undertake a practical publishing project.

Curtis Brown Agent's Choice competition

All successful applicants who take up their place with us in September will be entered into our competition to have a consultation with Annabel White , an agent at top London literary agency Curtis Brown.

So make sure the creative work you submit with your application is your very best - it might win you a meeting with a literary agent.

Reasons to choose Kingston University

• Kingston's Publishing and Creative Writing teaching teams have relationships with all the leading fiction publishers and literary agents in the UK.
• You will have the opportunity to contribute to Kingston University's publication, Ripple, which includes fiction, poetry, reviews and creative non-fiction, and is edited by students on the course.
• You will become part of Kingston ' s thriving community, with events such as readings, lectures from published authors, editors and agents, masterclasses and enriching discussions.

The Art School Experience

As part of  Kingston School of Art , students on this course benefit from joining a creative community where collaborative working and critical practice are encouraged.

Our  workshops and studios  are open to all disciplines, enabling students and staff to work together, share ideas and explore multi-disciplinary making.

What you will study

The creative writing element of this course is workshop-led. In the second semester, you will be given the opportunity to specialise in the genre of your choice, be it poetry, drama or children's fiction.

The publishing element focuses on marketing-led commercial and trade publishing. The modules you study will help you to understand the structure of the industry and the core skills required to enter.

You'll take two 30-credit modules from Publishing (one must be 'Create' but you can choose the other, and two 30-credit modules from Creative Writing. You can then choose whether to pursue a dissertation or practical project within either Publishing or Creative Writing, worth 60 credits.

Optional placement year

In addition to taking two core modules, you can choose to write an academic dissertation to demonstrate your analytical skills and competence, or undertake a major practical publishing project as your final assessment. If you choose to take your dissertation in creative writing, you will write an extensive piece of creative writing accompanied by critical essay; you will be supervised by a professional writer.

Core module

Create: the business of publishing.

This module initiates you into the collaborative, creative business of commercial publishing and facilitates the development of your research, critical thinking and entrepreneurial skills. From books and magazines to apps and websites, you will explore the structure and operation of successful publishing companies, the stakeholders, tools and processes crucial to the development of profitable multi-platform products and services and the fundamental and disruptive business models used by both traditional companies and new industry-entrants.

After an immersive introduction to the complex and challenging nature of 21st century publishing, the module offers the opportunity for the generation and critical evaluation of your own publishing ideas. This involves using industry-standard sources and approaches to research and analyse markets, identify appropriate business models and operational strategies and build and present persuasive business cases.

Throughout, there is an emphasis on building robust and well-evidenced arguments to win support for theoretical assertions and practical publishing concepts. You also have the opportunity to work with your peers, and to critically evaluate each other's publishing proposals.

Optional modules

Share: strategic marketing and sales.

This module considers the various individuals and communities (colleagues, shareholders, retailers, distributors, customers and other stakeholders) involved in the business of content delivery, and how most effectively to disseminate information and influence their behaviour, in order to promote effective marketing and sales.

This module will enable students to understand the principles of marketing and sales, and develop associated skills in applying them to meet the demands of modern publishing. Students will undertake exercises and discussions about the various applications of sales and marketing within the publishing industry and consider their relevance through all stages of the publishing process.

Through this process students will learn how best to investigate the market for demand, how to predict that demand, and how to prepare, market and distribute information about a product or service, whether in whole or part, to promote profitable fulfilment of that demand.

Publishers operate in an international context and so must market and sell their products to customers around the globe. Students will therefore consider how publishers organise themselves to deliver international operations successfully, and explore associated cultural, pricing and communication issues.

Make: Content Development and Production

This hands-on module gives students the key theory and the core practical skills needed to effectively manage content from raw material to finished print and digital presentation. Working in teams, students will carry out essential editorial and production tasks to produce a live published product. This group publication project enables students to collaborate to demonstrate the teamwork skills required for timely delivery, and to develop a thorough understanding of workflow and the associated processes. It also enables students to show how material gets turned into a market-appropriate product, ready for stakeholder approval and launch. The module enables students to illustrate how value gets added within the publishing supply chain, and to appreciate the content management systems and metadata vital in today's publishing environment. By working on in-class exercises and assignment projects students will acquire and apply the key skills necessary to operate within a professional publishing context. Students will engage with project management, budgeting and costing, briefing, the different types of editing, design and layout, proofreading, and delivery. This module enhances employability by allowing students to use industry standard tools and packages, such as HTML, InDesign and Photoshop, and to improve understanding of basic typographic and design principles, the application of typesetting/mark-up skills, and production of publication ready files. Practising these hands-on skills will enhance students' understanding of how attention to detail can improve a product, make it the best it can be, and ensure it is presented profitably to its intended market.

Writers' Workshop

In this module you will present and discuss your own and each other's work in a weekly workshop. The draft work presented may include several genres and forms, such as crime writing, fantasy fiction, children's literature, historical fiction, science fiction, romance and autobiography. Practical criticism of student writing will be accompanied by discussion of the scope or constraints of the various genres, as well as the implications of particular forms. Attention will be paid to the transferable components of good writing: appropriate use of language, narrative pace, dialogue, expression, characterisation and mood.

Ten Critical Challenges for Creative Writers

The module is designed to introduce students to some issues of critical and literary theory. The module is also designed to make students more aware of how their work impacts upon wider literary, cultural, political and philosophical issues. Awareness of these theories and of some of the issues surrounding the production and reception of literary texts will stimulate them, encouraging creative and conceptual thinking.  The module will explore debates about literature and the practice of creative writing through readings of essays and texts that are relevant to criticism and theory.  The academic component of the assessment will support the creative work with the objective that students will also have to demonstrate critical, academic, analytical skills.

Writing the Contemporary

This module provides the opportunity to examine ways in which reading is essential to writing practice and teaches you to apply literary techniques and strategies from contemporary fiction, life writing and poetry texts to your own work. You will develop the concept of 'reading as a writer' in order to explore how contemporary concerns are brought to the fore by artistic strategies, and examine how an understanding of these can provide models for your own creative practice. You will submit work including a reflective reading journal as well as a creative piece in a genre of your choice.

Special Study: Workshop in Popular Genre Writing

This module offers a regular and intensive review of your writing in one of the following genres: poetry, crime writing, prose fiction, biography, drama, scriptwriting or writing for children. You will be advised on how to strengthen your knowledge of the codes and conventions of your chosen genre to produce a substantial piece or collection of work that will reflect your knowledge of and engagement with your chosen genre. You will apply detailed feedback on your work to your writing as well as using your increased knowledge of your chosen genre to make your writing more effective. These elements will help you improve the key transferable skills of analysis and implementation that will feed forward into your dissertation module and into all analytical/practical tasks you subsequently undertake.

Publishing Dissertation

The Publishing dissertation module provides students with the opportunity to independently conceive, explore, investigate and then deliver a significant study within the publishing industry and allied fields. The theoretical underpinning may vary according to the approach taken and the research questions chosen, but the outcome should be a sustained and coherent piece of detailed work, capable of publication and wider dissemination.

Depending on the issue chosen, students will engage with a range of professionals within the industry, and within related fields. Although students are expected to take responsibility for their own learning, they are supported and mentored by an individual supervisor during the process.

Practical Publishing Project

The Practical publishing project provides students with the opportunity to conceive, plan, manage and deliver a substantial publishing-related output in order to achieve specified goals. Examples of potential projects include producing and publishing a book, app or magazine, researching and presenting a start-up business plan or developing and implementing a major market research exercise. In all instances, students are expected to define a specific audience and relevant stakeholders, as well as personal development and project objectives. Students will also develop a structured project plan and a post-project critical evaluation, in order to identify personal goals for future professional development.

Depending on the nature of the chosen project, students will engage with different ranges of knowledge and skills, from practical print or digital production methods and processes to software expertise, market research (including questionnaire design, data analysis and interpretation) and business planning. Although students are expected to take responsibility for their own learning, they are supported and mentored by an individual supervisor at key points in the process.

Creative Writing Dissertation

This module focuses on your own creative writing and research into your chosen form or genre, developed in consultation with your supervisor. You learn via one-to-one tutorials with your personal supervisor. You produce two pieces of writing:

• a creative dissertation – a portion of a novel, a body of poetry, a play screenplay or other creative form of no more than 15,000 words; and
• a critical essay of approximately 3,000 words – considering the relationships between your own writing and the literary contexts/theoretical concerns that inform published writing in your chosen genre or form.

Your supervisor must agree in advance the final structure, approximate word length and for presentation conventions of these pieces.

Many postgraduate courses at Kingston University allow students to do a 12-month work placement as part of their course. The responsibility for finding the work placement is with the student; we cannot guarantee the work placement, just the opportunity to undertake it. As the work placement is an assessed part of the course, it is covered by a student's Student Route visa.

Find out more about the postgraduate work placement scheme .

Please note

Optional modules only run if there is enough demand. If we have an insufficient number of students interested in an optional module, that module will not be offered for this course.

Entry requirements

Typical offer.

We normally expect applicants to have:

• A 2:2 or above honours degree, or equivalent, in creative writing, English literature, literature and language, drama or theatre studies or a humanities subject.

You may submit a sample of creative writing (maximum of 3,000 words) and a personal statement (maximum of 1,000 words) to support your application.

Prior learning – AP(E)L

Applicants with prior qualifications and learning may be exempt from appropriate parts of a course in accordance with the University's policy for the assessment of prior learning and prior experiential learning. Contact the  faculty office  for further information.

International

All non-UK applicants must meet our English language requirements. For this course it is Academic IELTS of 6.5 overall with 5.5 in all elements. Please make sure you read our full guidance about  English language requirements , which includes details of other qualifications we'll consider.

Applicants who do not meet the English language requirements may be eligible to join our  pre-sessional English language course .

Applicants from one of the recognised  majority English speaking countries (MESCs)  do not need to meet these requirements.

Country-specific information

You will find more information on country specific entry requirements in the International section of our website.

Find your country:

• Middle East

Teaching and assessment

You'll be taught and assessed through essays, reports, presentations, briefs, research projects and portfolios.

Guided independent study (self-managed time)

When not attending timetabled sessions, you will be expected to continue learning independently through self-study. This typically involves reading and analysing articles, regulations, policy documents and key texts, documenting individual projects, preparing coursework assignments and completing your PEDRs, etc.

Your independent learning is supported by a range of excellent facilities including online resources, the library and CANVAS, the University's online virtual learning platform.

Support for postgraduate students

At Kingston University, we know that postgraduate students have particular needs and therefore we have a range of support available to help you during your time here.

Your workload

Year 1: 8% of your time is spent in timetabled learning and teaching activity.

Contact hours will vary depending on which modules you choose on this combined course.

Type of teaching and learning

• Scheduled learning and teaching: 152 hours
• Guided independent study (self-managed time): 1648 hours

Please note: the above breakdowns are a guide calculated on core modules only. Depending on optional modules chosen, this breakdown may change.

How you will be assessed

Assessment typically comprises exams (e.g. test or exam), practical (e.g. presentations, performance) and coursework (e.g. essays, reports, self-assessment, portfolios, dissertation). The approximate percentage for how you will be assessed on this course is as follows, though depends to some extent on the optional modules you choose:

Type of assessment

• Coursework: 100%

Please note : the above breakdowns are a guide calculated on core modules only. Depending on optional modules chosen, this breakdown may change.

Feedback summary

We aim to provide feedback on assessments within 20 working days.

Your timetable

As a one-year full-time student, you'll be expected to attend 2–3 days a week. We also offer a part-time study option to help you fit your MA around other commitments.

Class sizes

To give you an indication of class sizes, this course normally enrols 5–10 students and lecture sizes are normally 10–20. However, this can vary by module and academic year.

Postgraduate students may also contribute to the teaching of seminars under the supervision of the module leader.

Dr James Miller

Course leader.

Ms Emma Tait

Professor Alison Baverstock

Admissions tutor.

Ms Lynne Eve

Mr Steven J. Fowler

Fees for this course, 2024/25 fees for this course, home 2024/25.

• MA full time £9,900
• MA part time £5,445

International 2024/25

• MA full time £16,900
• MA part time £9,295

2023/24 fees for this course

Home 2023/24.

• MA full time £9,860
• MA part time £5,423

International 2023/24

• MA full time £16,200
• MA part time £8,910

Tuition fee information for future course years

If you start your second year straight after Year 1, you will pay the same fee for both years.

If you take a break before starting your second year, or if you repeat modules from Year 1 in Year 2, the fee for your second year may increase.

Fees for the optional placement year

If you choose to take a placement as part of this course, you will be invoiced for the placement fee in Year 2. Find out more about the postgraduate work placement scheme and the costs for the placement year.

Postgraduate loans

If you are a UK student, resident in England and are aged under the age of 60, you will be able to apply for a loan to study for a postgraduate degree. For more information, read the postgraduate loan information on the government's website .

Scholarships and bursaries

Kingston University offers a range of postgraduate scholarships, including:

• Inspire the Future scholarship
• Postgraduate scholarships for international students

If you are an international student, find out more about  scholarships and bursaries .

We also offer the following discounts for Kingston University alumni:

• Alumni discount
• Progression Scholarship

Additional costs

Depending on the programme of study, there may be extra costs that are not covered by tuition fees which students will need to consider when planning their studies. Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessment and operating University facilities such as the library, access to shared IT equipment and other support services. Accommodation and living costs are not included in our fees. 

Where a course has additional expenses, we make every effort to highlight them. These may include optional field trips, materials (e.g. art, design, engineering), security checks such as DBS, uniforms, specialist clothing or professional memberships.

Our libraries are a valuable resource with an extensive collection of books and journals as well as first-class facilities and IT equipment. You may prefer to buy your own copy of key textbooks, this can cost between £50 and £250 per year.

Computer equipment

There are open-access networked computers available across the University, plus laptops available to loan . You may find it useful to have your own PC, laptop or tablet which you can use around campus and in halls of residences. Free WiFi is available on each of the campuses. You may wish to purchase your own computer, which can cost £100 to £3,000 depending on your course requirements.

Photocopying and printing

In the majority of cases written coursework can be submitted online. There may be instances when you will be required to submit work in a printed format. Printing, binding and photocopying costs are not included in your tuition fees, this may cost up to £100 per year.

Travel costs are not included in your tuition fees but we do have a free intersite bus service which links the campuses, Surbiton train station, Kingston upon Thames train station, Norbiton train station and halls of residence.

The campus at Penrhyn Road is a hive of activity, housing our fantastic new Town House, with four floors of study space and our extensive library, the main student restaurant, and a host of teaching rooms and lecture theatres.

The Town House offers group study spaces for when you need to work together. The light, airy top floor cafe serves light snacks and drinks, as well as fabulous views!

At the heart of the campus is the John Galsworthy building, a six-storey complex that brings together lecture theatres, flexible teaching space and information technology suites around a landscaped courtyard.

A student's perspective

In this video, Amanda gives her perspective on her experiences at Kingston University as a Creative Writing & Publishing MA student.

After you graduate

Graduates from this course will develop a range of skills desirable to employers, such as communication skills, self-management, meticulousness in editing and presentation, the ability to reflect on one's own work and to respond to constructive criticism, the ability to write for particular purposes and the ability to work constructively with others.

In addition to a possible career as a translator and a writer, particular careers may include work in publishing, journalism, advertising and marketing, film, television, radio, arts management, new media, business, teaching and therapeutic fields.

Links with business and industry

We maintain links with institutions and organisations including:

• Writers' Centre Kingston , Kingston University's literary cultural centre dedicated to creative writing in all its forms, with an exciting, vibrant annual programme of events from talks to workshops to festivals;
• the Rose Theatre in Kingston , where we hold regular readings in the Culture Cafe and periodic interviews with major writers such as Hilary Mantell, Sebastian Faulks and Elif Shafak;
• our Writers in Residence are professional writers, often award-winners in their particular forms or genres;
• links with publishers, agents, literary festival organisers and authors, who offer useful networking opportunities.

A range of additional events and lectures will enhance your studies and add an extra perspective to your learning. Activities for this course include:

• a series of masterclasses with publishing specialists and professionals;
• weekly guest lectures by leading journalists including Samira Ahmed, an award-winning journalist with 20 years' experience in print and broadcast; David Jenkins, editor of Little White Lies, a bi-monthly movie magazine powered by illustration; Richard Moynihan, Head of digital journalism, The Telegraph and Alex Stedman, fashion blogger at The Frugality and former style editor at Red magazine;
• regular philosophy lunchtime lectures which focus on a major figure in the history of Western philosophy, introducing students to that thinker's work, usually through the discussion of one of her or his emblematic works.

The literary magazine Persist is edited by MA students, providing:

• a platform for the publication of creative work; and
• a chance to get hands-on experience of the publishing process.

Insights from industry experts

The masterclasses are an excellent way to learn about different job roles in the publishing industry. The speakers work in all areas of publishing so it's very insightful to hear different perspectives on the business. It also gives you the opportunity to ask questions and get first-hand answers from professionals. It can be a great way to network too - I ended up securing a work placement at Weidenfeld & Nicolson by talking to publishing director, Alan Samson, before he gave a masterclass.

Amy Cartwright, Business Development Executive at Charity Retail Association and Publishing MA graduate

Masterclasses

Our regular masterclasses are delivered by a wide range of successful industry professionals, from editors and publishers to literary agents. John Blake, one of our masterclass speakers, talks about celebrity publishing in the video below:

In addition to writing or publishing, careers include journalism, translation, advertising and marketing, film, television, radio, arts management, new media, business, teaching and therapeutic fields.

Advisory Board

The Publishing MA benefits from the input of a dynamic Advisory Board. The Board is involved in the course's development and keen to contribute. Each member gives guest lectures and contributes to placement and dissertation study.

• Valerie Brandes, Founder and Publishing Director, Jacaranda Arts Books Music
• Dr Christopher Fletcher, Keeper of Special Collections, Bodleian Library
• Andrew Hansen, Vice-President, Prestel Publishing
• Caroline Hird, Sales and Marketing Director, British Medical Journal
• Nicholas Jones, Founder and Owner, Strathmore Publishing
• Philip Jones, Editor, The Bookseller
• Perminder Mann, CEO, Bonnier Books UK
• Georgina Moore, Director of Books and Publishing, Midas Public Relations
• Nick Poole, CEO, The Library and Information Association (CILIP)
• Diane Spivey, Publishing and Rights Consultant
• Kate Wilson, Founder and CEO, Nosy Crow
• Gordon Wise, Senior Literary Agent and Joint MD Book Department, Curtis Brown Group

Research in creative writing at Kingston University covers the following areas:

• 19th and 20th century British and American fiction;
• fictions of globalisation;
• gothic writing;
• travel writing;
• narratives of slavery;
• women's writing from the 18th century to the present;
• New Woman and fin de siècle fictions;
• Shakespeare;
• literature of the English Reformation period;
• English women's religious poetry during the seventeenth century; and
• postcolonial studies.

Subject-specific research initiatives include:

• Centre for Iris Murdoch Studies – established in 2004 to oversee research on the Iris Murdoch archives acquired by Kingston University in 2003/04).
• Centre for Life Narratives – bringing together best practice from all genres of life narrative work.
• Cultural Histories at Kingston – centred around the concept of the 'cultural text', the group includes scholars from the fields of literature, film, media, history, music, dance, performance, and journalism.
• Writers' Centre Kingston – a literary cultural centre dedicated to creative writing in all its forms, with an annual programme of events, talks, workshops and festivals.
• Race/Gender Matters – captures and concentrates research on theoretical, critical and creative engagements with the materiality of race, gender and language.

Current research in this area

Publishing has a vibrant culture of both research and professional practice. Our lecturers publish all the time – whether it is academic research, industry-leading text books or writing for the national or trade press. Applications for research study with us are very welcome.

At masters level we have a vibrant programme of industry dissertation supervision for our MA dissertations, as fits our industry-focussed discipline. This has led to the identification of issues needing further exploration, which have been developed through collaboration between Kingston students and industry tutors, affirming the position and value of Publishing within the academy. In 2018 a Kingston MA student won the prestigious Association for Publishing Education Award for the best dissertation at masters level for her work on publishing for autistic children.

Associate Professor Alison Baverstock has carried out ground-breaking work into the nature of self-publishing and how it is impacting the wider industry. This has been published in book (The Naked Author, Bloomsbury) and journal form. She is currently overseeing four PhD students, who are variously working on what attracts young adults to the books they choose, cover design in women's commercial fiction, the history of Virago and publication of fairy tales. She also has extensive experience of overseeing PhD by Publication.

Finally the university has been exploring and analysing its pre-arrival shared reading scheme The Kingston University Big Read , which won a prestigious Times Higher Education Award in 2017 for Best University Initiative for Widening Participation. This has now developed into a dynamic research project, across a range of other universities, concentrating on how universities can make their students feel welcome - and hence encourage both engagement and retention. In 2018-19 we worked with The University of Wolverhampton, Edge Hill University and University of the West of Scotland. Most of our findings are published in the journal Logos, Journal of the World Publishing Community and there are regular blogs on progress. To discuss these or potential collaborations, please contact Alison Baverstock .

Course changes and regulations

The information on this page reflects the currently intended course structure and module details. To improve your student experience and the quality of your degree, we may review and change the material information of this course.  Course changes explained .

Programme Specifications for the course are published ahead of each academic year.

Regulations governing this course  can be found on our website.

Related courses

Creative Writing Distance Learning MA

Creative Writing MA

Creative Writing MFA

Journalism PgDip/MA

Magazine Journalism MA

Publishing MA

Secondary Teaching leading to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) PGCE English

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• Handbook Archive

Master of Creative Writing, Publishing and Editing

Course D01LF (2015)

Note: This is an archived Handbook entry from 2015.

Coordinator

Creative Writing

Semester 1:

Dr Amanda Johnson

Email: [email protected]

Semester 2: Dr Elizabeth MacFarlane

Email: [email protected]

Publishing and Editing

Associate Professor Mark Davis

Email: [email protected]

Enquiries Phone: 13 MELB (13 6352) Email: [email protected]

Download PDF version .

Course Details

Qualification.

Masters Degree

Course Location

Applications close.

Apr 2, 2025

Course Starts

Jul 22, 2024

1 Year full-time (or part-time equivalent) 1.5 Years full-time (or part-time equivalent)

Course Code

The University of Queensland

MASTER OF Writing, Editing and Publishing

Gain the writing, editing, publishing, design and research skills to build a rewarding career in print or online.

In a world of rapid change, there has never been a greater demand for the mastery of the written word. The digitisation of the modern economy has created a raft of new job titles, all of which require expertise in writing and editing – in addition to the jobs that already drive Australia’s dynamic creative industries.

The Master of Writing, Editing and Publishing covers all stages of the writing and publishing process, and the skills needed to meet growing demands. During this program, you’ll develop practical knowledge and experience in writing and editing across genres including creative writing, corporate and technical documents, academic research in the creative arts, advertising, marketing and more.

Your lecturers will include award-winning authors and arts industry professionals, as well as an array of guest lecturers with expertise in all aspects of professional writing and publishing. Together, they’ll provide you with up-to-date insights and industry knowledge across traditional and new media.

You’ll learn about the continually evolving landscapes of the Australian and international publishing industries, and have the opportunity to intern at arts organisations, such as the highly respected University of Queensland Press, literary journals, educational publishers and trade publishers, including UQ’s own  Corella Press , which specialises in rediscovering nineteenth century crime and mystery writers.

Prerequisites

Please refer to this page for entry requirements: https://study.uq.edu.au/study-options/programs/master-writing-editing-and-publishing-5681#entry-requirements  

Applications Open

Apr 2, 2024

$25,280 yearly tuition (FEE-HELP available)

Course Homepage

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Master of Creative Writing, Publishing and Editing

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Student experience

We will equip you with more than just an education. Learn from some of the country’s most influential teachers, access a network of innovative industry leaders and engage with our exciting internship opportunities.

Student profile: Megan Cheong – Development Editor, Oxford University Press

A former chemical engineering graduate and secondary school science teacher, Megan Cheong began studying creative writing through a graduate certificate. But after her initial studies convinced her she wanted to work with words, she moved in the Master of Creative Writing, Publishing and Editing.

While it was creative writing which drew her to the degree, Megan was surprised by how much she enjoyed editing as well. “I’ve always enjoyed reading and writing, but there’s something uniquely satisfying about mending broken sentences,” she says. “In publishing and editing, I’ve actually really enjoyed the assignments. The work reflected that of a professional editor, and convinced me that I wanted to work in publishing.”

Although still studying, Megan has already begun working in the publishing industry – and credits her masters with preparing her for the role.

“I’m fortunate enough to already have a job as a development editor at Oxford University Press. My studies allowed me to talk comfortably about the editing and publishing processes in my interview,” she said. “I also think the work I did in editing really improved my ability to structure a text logically and edit for clarity. There has been a lot to learn on the job, but it was good to start the job in the right headspace.”

Graduate profile

View Elisha’s experience studying the Master of Creative Writing, Publishing and Editing at the University of Melbourne.

Non-Credit Certificate Program in Editing

Secure foundational editing skills while learning about the latest trends and technologies to prepare for a successful publishing career.

Upcoming Events

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At a Glance

The University of Chicago’s professional development certificate in Editing uses the Chicago Manual of Style as the foundation for developing the skills needed to enter the publishing industry or to advance the careers of current editing professionals in nine to twenty-four months, part-time.

The online program with synchronous sessions focuses on building technical skills with instruction covering all levels of editing and marketing tools impacting the publishing industry. ​​The program is enhanced through connections with the University of Chicago Press, with its editors among the instructors in the program.

Designed For

Designed to prepare individuals to enter the publishing industry and to help current editing professionals build skills and knowledge for career advancement.

Learn with Leaders in Editing

Since 1906, the University has published The Chicago Manual of Style, an authoritative resource in the publishing industry. Now in its 17th edition, The Chicago Manual of Style is the required text for the Editing Certificate.

Wordsmiths Wanted—Enroll in UChicago's Editing Certificate Today

Are you passionate about perfecting prose and polishing content to perfection? Elevate your editing skills with our comprehensive online Editing certificate program at the University of Chicago.

Editing Career Outlook

Amidst the rise of social media, e-readers, and online content, digital-savvy graduates looking to shape the future of publishing can choose from a bevy of possible career paths, including editorial, production, publicity, and marketing. Having technical and digital proficiency offers editors a tremendous advantage in a digital-first landscape.

Potential salary for editing professionals

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , editors earn an average annual salary of $73,080 and an average hourly wage of $35.14.

Potential job titles for editing students

• Acquisitions Editor
• Assignment Editor
• Assistant/Associate Editor
• Development Editor
• Editorial Assistant
• Managing Editor

The Editing certificate has given me some additional tools in my arsenal so that I can better serve the author. The courses also supported my established philosophy of editing and helped me build my knowledge base for my career. Christine Parker, Editing Student and Book Editor

Offered by The University of Chicago's Professional Education

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