Writing and Publishing (MA)

Program Overview

DePaul University's Master's in Writing and Publishing program empowers students to hone their writing skills and prepare for careers in the literary field. Under the guidance of award-winning authors and poets, students develop their voices through writing workshops, internships, and specialized coursework. Graduates have achieved success in publishing, teaching, and further graduate studies, making an impact on the literary landscape.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Master's in Writing and Publishing at DePaul University is a flexible program designed to help students hone their voices and make them heard. It offers the opportunity to study across genres and develop and revise work under the mentorship of acclaimed authors and poets. Students can choose from courses in poetry, fiction and non-fiction (travel, magazine, memoir, science writing, personal essay, etc). The program also offers professional internships that give students the chance to join Chicago's vibrant literary scene and launch a creative career.

Outline:

• Program Structure: The program includes five writing workshops, one course in language and style, two electives in language, literature, publishing and teaching, and four open electives.
• Course Schedule: Courses are offered weekday evenings on the Lincoln Park Campus or online.
The program can be completed in two years.
• Faculty: The program features award-winning writers.
One example given is Barrie Jean Borich, who has won a Lambda Literary Award in Memoir, an IPPY Gold Medal in Essay/Creative Nonfiction, and an IndieFab Bronze Award for Essays. She also won the American Library Association Stonewall Book Award for her book, “My Lesbian Husband.”
• Unique Approaches: The program emphasizes the mentorship of acclaimed authors and poets.
It also provides opportunities for students to engage with visiting writers and editors and take part in internships in publishing and teaching.

Careers:

• Potential Career Paths: Graduates have published books with major and independent presses, had their work appear in publications such as the New York Times, and hold editorial positions at various organizations including National Geographic and New York Magazine.
Graduates have also gone on to top MFA and PhD programs in creative writing.
• Outcomes: 94% of Writing and Publishing graduates were employed, continuing their education or pursuing other goals within six months of graduation.

Other:

• Imprint: The master's in Writing and Publishing program has its own imprint, Big Shoulders Books, which has produced five volumes.
• Alumni Network: Alumni of the program have strong connections with the program, and many have achieved success in their fields.