About the Graduate Publishing and Writing Program
Emerson College’s on-campus Publishing and Writing MA program will help you discover your place in the ever-vital, ever-changing field of publishing. You will learn to shape the prose of fresh voices as an editor, represent writers as a literary agent, or work with exciting online publications and new media formats.
Housed in the Department of Writing, Literature and Publishing in the School of the Arts, our program allows you to explore all facets of publishing in the publishing hub of Boston. Our experienced faculty provide a comprehensive overview of the publishing of books and magazine media via print, digital, video, social media, and other platforms. You will enjoy the flexibility to take a variety of creative writing and literature courses that suit your interests and goals.
Program Highlights
- A dynamic curriculum that builds a solid foundation of skills in book, magazine, and digital publishing
- An emphasis on hands-on learning, with options such as working on the Emerson College-owned digital publication The Independent and with community partners (current and former partners include the Boston Globe Magazine, Bookbuilders of Boston, and Artists for Humanity)
- Internship opportunities at a wide variety of publishers (such as children's and adult trade, academic, magazine media, and news) and publishing-related firms
- Study full-time or part-time in person on our beautiful Boston campus
- Most classes, whether in-person or online, are offered in the evening to maximize flexibility
- Access to a vast alumni network
- No GRE requirements to apply
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4+1 Bachelor’s to Master’s Program
Our Publishing and Writing MA program is available to current Emerson undergraduate students who are interested in pursuing a master’s degree in just one additional year. For more information, visit our 4+1 MA in Publishing page.
Events
“Ask Us Anything”: Publishing and Writing Pop Up Chat!
October 28, 2025, 11:00 a.m. EDT
Join us for a quick pop-up chat and have your questions answered about our Publishing and Writing MA program. You can also learn more about becoming a student in our program! During this time, you'll get the chance to ask any questions and hear directly from the Admissions Counselor, Muzhgan Mia Bekdas.
Empower your Future: Transformational Leaders Fellowship Information Session
November 9, 2025, 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. EST
Join us for a virtual overview of the Transformational Leaders Fellowship! Learn how this fellowship empowers future leaders through unique learning opportunities, mentorship programs, and more. You’ll have the opportunity to hear from former Transformational Leaders fellows and admissions staff while learning about the application components, fellowship commitments, and scholarship logistics. We hope to see you there!
Experience Emerson Live: It Takes a Team to Make a Book
November 12, 2025, 11:00 a.m. EDT
Join us for a virtual glimpse into the Publishing and Writing MA program! During this interactive session you will learn about the numerous steps and departments in the process of book publishing. Admissions staff will also be available to answer any questions you may have about the program or application process.
We hope to see you there!
Graduate Application Overview
November 12, 2025, 12:00 p.m. EDT
What does it take to apply to graduate school? Join us to learn more about the process of applying to Emerson's graduate programs! Members of the admission team will be available to explain application requirements, answer your questions, and offer insider tips into the graduate school application process. We can’t wait to see you there!
Graduate International Student Information Session
November 13, 2025, 1:00 p.m. EDT
Join us for an international student information session! Staff from Graduate Admissions and the Office of International Student Affairs (OISA) will be available to explain application requirements for international students, funding opportunities, the F-1 Visa process, life at Emerson, and so much more.