Program Overview

MA Publishing

The MA Publishing course at Manchester Metropolitan University is designed to equip students with the skills, practical experience, and networks needed to succeed in the publishing industry. Delivered in collaboration with leading industry professionals, this course provides a comprehensive understanding of the publishing industry, its trends, and future developments.

Course Overview

The course is structured to provide students with a thorough understanding of the publishing industry, including its history, business context, and current developments. Students will explore the complex anatomies and eco-systems of the publishing industry and its markets in the UK and internationally. The course covers various aspects of publishing, including commissioning, copy editing, production, design, sales, marketing, and legal and rights.

Course Structure

The course is available in both full-time and part-time modes. The full-time mode is completed in one year, while the part-time mode is completed in two years. The course consists of core modules and option modules, which provide students with the opportunity to specialize in areas such as poetry, children's literature, literature in translation, or magazine publishing.

Core Modules

• Dissertation: This module allows students to apply the skills acquired in their taught modules in a major supervised independent investigation of an aspect of publishing.
• Publishing Business and Operations: This module provides an introduction to the world of publishing, examining the history and business context of publishing industries and giving an overview of publishing roles, processes, formats, and platforms.
• Sales and Marketing, Legal and Rights: This module gives an overview of strategies employed by publishers to sell and market their products, including audience research, market assessment, consumer behavior, targeted marketing, and negotiating with buyers.
• From Commissioning and Editorial to Design and Production: This module provides an in-depth understanding of the publishing journey, from commissioning and editorial to design and production.

Option Modules

• Contemporary Magazine Publishing: This module examines contemporary magazine publishing as a creative process, from idea to distribution.
• Literature in Translation: This module examines the creative, ethical, and business aspects of publishing literature in translation.
• Poetry in Print: This module gives an overview of the design and editorial history and practices of poetry publication.
• Writing, Illustrating and Publishing Children's Books: This module explores the creative, editorial, and business aspects of writing, illustrating, and publishing for children.

Study and Assessment

The course is taught through a combination of lectures, seminars, and practical sessions, with a focus on independent study. Assessment is based on coursework, with no practical or examination components.

Entry Requirements

Students will normally have a minimum 2:2 UK undergraduate honors degree (or equivalent) in a humanities, social sciences, or other related subject. Non-standard applicants are encouraged to apply via submission of an application form, personal statement, one reference, and interview.

Fees and Funding

The tuition fees for the course vary depending on the mode of study and the student's nationality. UK and Channel Island students pay £10,250 per year for full-time study, while EU and non-EU international students pay £20,000 per year.

Careers Support and Prospects

The course is designed to provide students with the practical skills and experience needed to succeed in the publishing industry. Graduates can pursue a variety of careers in digital and print publishing, including editorial, production, sales, and marketing. The university's careers service provides support and guidance to help students achieve their career goals.

Additional Information

The course is part of the Department of English at Manchester Metropolitan University, which has a strong reputation for teaching and research in the field of publishing. The university has excellent links with the publishing industry, providing students with opportunities for work placements, internships, and networking. The city of Manchester is a vibrant and culturally rich environment, with a thriving literary scene and a wide range of cultural attractions.