Develop your skills in publishing, critical reflection and creative practice. Work within a thriving writing and creative industries community. Enter into the world of publishing, with a focus on the independent sector and small presses. Knowledge, context and skills will be put into practice by working on live projects, taking publications through the entire process from conception to distribution. Prepare for your career by working with industry professionals.
The focus of this MA is on contemporary publishing and emergent themes in writing. You will engage with a diverse and inclusive range of creative and critical texts in a variety of forms, enhancing your knowledge of the current publishing landscape. You will develop creative skills surrounding the reading, generation, selection, development and publication of new texts.Your major project will be the co-creation of a publication, such as The York Literary Review. This will be a journal of original literature, including prose, poetry, non-fiction and art. You will also have the flexibility to pursue your own projects that you are passionate about. Projects can be developed and tailored to your learning needs. The staff team of award-winning writers have an exciting and diverse approach to creative writing, literature and publication and are able to supervise a huge range of proposed projects.
You will be encouraged to take a professional approach to your study and attend the variety of events provided by the York Centre for Writing. These include visits from agents, publishers, editors and writers, and they foster a sense of belonging and community for our students across all levels of study. You will also have opportunities to attend trips away.
September 2026
York St John University
Lord Mayor's Walk,
York,
North Yorkshire,
YO31 7EX, Northern England, United Kingdom
Minimum entry requirement: 2:2 honours degree in a related subject. Interview - if your degree is in a non-related subject. Your application many be considered if you have a degree in Humanities, Arts, Sciences and Social Sciences or other related subjects.
*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.