Book Publishing Specialization

The Book Publishing industry hosts many exciting career options for anyone who has ever dreamt about being an author or editor-in-chief, a publicist, marketer, entrepreneur or a sales executive. York University’s Book Publishing Specialization offers the unique opportunity for students to gain practical knowledge on the book publishing industry and the various roles within it. This specialization is one of four specialized pathways offered by the Writing Department and is one of the most exciting and hands-on book publishing programs in Canada.

There is something here for everyone who wants to be part of the book publishing industry. You’ll develop the tools you need to turn your fan fiction into a mass market release, effectively edit a manuscript, acquire the next bestseller or even start your own business. The Book Publishing Specialization offers projects that are designed to give students the practical skills, technical knowledge and hands-on experience needed to enter a rewarding career in the book industry.

Quick Links

• Academic Advising
• Writing Centre
• Course Projects
• Book Publishing Specialization Instructor
• Degree Options & Requirements
• Professional Writing Degree Pathway
• Professional Writing Students’ Association

What You’ll Learn

• Develop practical knowledge about the book publishing industry in North America.

• Create a book from scratch by learning to acquire a manuscript, conduct the editorial process, work on design and layout, resulting in final printed product.

• Refine your editing skills on real manuscripts by award-winning Canadian and international authors.

• Discover key marketing and promotional concepts used in the industry to catch the eye of book retailers and your target audiences.

• Design and release self-published work, including eBooks and content for digital platforms.

Hands-On Experience

• Meet professional editors and publishers from many of the industry’s biggest publishers during one of several workshops or Q&A sessions arranged for the program.

• Pitch your book proposal directly to a Senior Editor working in the industry to gain immediate and invaluable feedback on your work.

• Collaborate on real projects with companies like Wattpad, PenguinRandomHouse or House of Anansi to redefine the future of young adult novels, self-published works and fan fiction.

• Work alongside your professor to develop a brand-new indie publishing press focused on acquiring, marketing and selling books in the science fiction and fantasy genre.