Publishing MA

Program Overview

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The MA Publishing program at the University of Exeter equips students with critical knowledge and practical skills in the evolving global publishing industry. Through industry-led modules, students gain hands-on experience in commissioning, production, marketing, and distribution. Graduates embark on diverse careers in major publishing houses, independent presses, digital publishing, and entrepreneurial ventures. The program's collaboration with industry professionals and researchers fosters exceptional learning opportunities and a high employability rate.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

The MA Publishing program at the University of Exeter aims to equip students with the critical contexts and practical skills needed to engage with global publishing models across print and digital environments. The program focuses on familiarizing students with the processes of commissioning, production, marketing, and distribution within the publishing industry.

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Objectives:

• Develop critical understanding of global publishing models: Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the diverse landscape of publishing, encompassing both traditional and digital platforms.
• Master practical skills: The program emphasizes hands-on learning, equipping students with essential skills in commissioning, production, marketing, and distribution.
• Prepare for a career in publishing: The program aims to prepare graduates for successful careers in the fast-changing publishing industry, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to thrive in various roles.
• Foster entrepreneurial spirit: Students will be encouraged to develop their own innovative publishing initiatives, with support from SETSquared Exeter.
• Promote research in publishing: The program provides opportunities for students to undertake further research in this growing field of study.
• Engage with the literary community: Students will have the chance to join and network with a growing hub for the publishing industry and literary community in the South West, as Exeter develops as an UNESCO City of Literature.
• Develop analytical and creative tools: Students will learn to apply analytical and creative tools for innovation within and beyond existing publishing structures.
• Benefit from industry guidance: The program's curriculum is guided by an Industry Advisory Board, composed of prominent figures in the publishing industry.
• Co-create learning experiences: The program actively co-creates learning experiences with industry professionals, ensuring graduates receive the best possible education for entering the world of publishing.

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Outline:

The MA Publishing program is structured into units of study called modules, each assigned a specific number of credits. The credit rating reflects the total workload, with 1 credit equivalent to 10 hours of work.

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Modules:

• Publishing and Power: Black and Asian Literary Networks in the UK: This module explores the dynamics of publishing and the biases prevalent within the industry, providing students with a critical understanding of the system and its impact on diverse literary communities.
• Other modules: The program offers a range of optional, interdisciplinary modules from English, Creative Industries, and Modern Languages departments, allowing students to tailor their learning experience.

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Course Schedule:

• Duration: 1 year full-time, 2 years part-time
• Entry Year: September 2024

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Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

• Industry professional expertise: The program leverages the teaching expertise of industry professionals and researchers, providing students with real-world insights and practical knowledge.
• Work placement module: Students have the opportunity to undertake a work placement module, gaining valuable hands-on experience in the publishing industry.
• Practical publishing project or research-based dissertation: Students can choose to pursue either a practical publishing project or a research-based dissertation, allowing them to delve deeper into their areas of interest.
• Holistic learning experience: The program combines academic theory with regular industry input, relevant placements, and practical projects, creating a well-rounded learning experience.
• Industry-relevant academic knowledge: The program focuses on building industry-relevant academic knowledge, equipping students with the theoretical foundation needed for success in the publishing field.
• Soft skills development: The program emphasizes the development of essential soft skills, such as project management, digital literacy, and teamwork, enhancing students' employability.
• Learning through the archive: Students can learn about the publishing industry through the archive, with sessions taught using the Agatha Christie business papers.

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Faculty:

The program benefits from the expertise of a diverse faculty, including:

• Dr Kate Wallis: Director, Senior Lecturer in Global and World Literatures, English department
• Dr Katie Brown: Senior Lecturer in Latin American Studies within the department of Modern Languages and Cultures
• Dr Helen Vassallo: Senior Lecturer (French)
• Professor Sam North: Associate Professor
• Anna Kiernan: Senior Lecturer in Creativity and Innovation and Co-Director of MA Creativity
• D-M Withers: Lecturer in Publishing
• Co-creation of learning experiences: The program actively involves industry professionals in the design and delivery of the curriculum, providing students with a unique and valuable learning experience.
• Focus on diversity and inclusion: The program recognizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in the publishing industry, aiming to contribute to a more representative and equitable sector.

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Careers:

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Potential Career Paths:

• Major publishing houses: Graduates are well-prepared to secure roles with major publishing houses, both in the UK and internationally.
• Small presses: The program equips graduates to work with independent and smaller presses, contributing to the vibrant landscape of independent publishing.
• Editorial roles: Graduates can pursue careers in editorial roles, working with authors, developing manuscripts, and shaping the content of publications.
• Marketing and sales: The program provides students with the skills needed to excel in marketing and sales roles, promoting books and reaching new audiences.
• Production: Graduates can work in production roles, overseeing the physical creation of books, from design to printing.
• Digital publishing: The program prepares graduates for careers in the growing field of digital publishing, encompassing e-books, online platforms, and digital content creation.
• Literary and popular publishing: Graduates can work across various genres, from literary fiction to popular non-fiction, catering to diverse audiences.
• Trade and academic publishing: The program equips graduates to work in both trade and academic publishing, understanding the unique demands of each sector.
• Book and journal publishing: Graduates can work with both books and journals, gaining experience in the diverse world of publishing.
• Fiction and non-fiction: The program prepares graduates to work with both fiction and non-fiction, developing a broad understanding of the publishing landscape.
• Children and adult publishing: Graduates can work with both children's and adult literature, catering to different age groups and reading interests.
• Entrepreneurial ventures: The program encourages students to develop their own publishing companies or literary initiatives, fostering entrepreneurial spirit and innovation.
• Employability workshops: Graduates benefit from a set of employability workshops designed to enhance their job search skills and prepare them for the competitive job market.
• Transferable skills: The program develops a range of transferable skills, such as project management, digital literacy, and teamwork, making graduates highly competitive in various industries.

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Outcomes:

• High employment rate: The MA Publishing program boasts a high employment rate, with graduates securing full-time employment in the publishing industry.
• Industry recognition: The program is recognized by the publishing industry as a valuable qualification, providing graduates with a competitive edge in the job market.
• Career progression: The program prepares graduates for entry-level roles but also equips them to progress quickly within the industry, becoming innovators and leaders.
• Diverse career paths: Graduates are well-prepared to pursue a wide range of career paths within the publishing industry and beyond, leveraging their skills and knowledge in various sectors.

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Other:

• Agatha Christie business papers: The program utilizes the Agatha Christie business papers as a teaching tool, providing students with a unique and valuable resource for understanding the history and practices of publishing.
• UNESCO City of Literature: Exeter's designation as a UNESCO City of Literature provides students with access to a vibrant literary community and a wealth of opportunities for engagement with the world of literature.

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2024/25 entry UK fees per year: £12,000 full-time; £6,000 part-time International fees per year: £24,300 full-time; £12,150 part-time