You’ll develop creative writing across a variety of forms, focusing on transmedia storytelling and skills to independently publish your work as a publisher; learning skills in editing, PR and marketing, design, production, and budgeting. Analyze the cultural and critical influences on the writer and publishing industry, as well as your own practice.

Emerson College’s MFA in Popular Fiction Writing and Publishing is one of the first online, asynchronous programs designed to help students craft professional-level stories and novels. We welcome writers from various genres, including fantasy, science fiction, romance, horror, mystery, thrillers, and young adult fiction. Housed in the Department of Writing, Literature, and Publishing within the School of the Arts, our flexible program enables you to hone your writing skills from anywhere in the world. With online workshops, literature seminars, and publishing courses, you can improve your craft, explore genre history, and learn the steps to publish your work.

Delivered in collaboration with leading industry professionals, including our partners for this MA, Comma Press, this course will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed for a variety of careers in publishing.

Learn the publishing process by working on real books with real publishing clients. Work as a publishing team as you gain skills in editing, project management, typesetting and publicity for print and digital media. Benefit from regular industry speakers and complete two work placements in publishing companies.

The program is designed for current and aspiring professionals. Some students include post-bachelor and post-graduate students who have earned their degrees in other disciplines but desire careers in publishing. Current publishing professionals can sharpen their skills and expand their knowledge through high-level coursework. The master’s degree in Publishing integrates traditional print with digital publishing topics, including editorial acquisitions, production and design, copyright law in print and cyberspace, marketing, distribution, management and business. Taught by nationally and internationally recognized leaders, you will master the skills required for traditional print publishing as well as online and electronic publishing.