Course Resources Archive

This module aims to introduce students to the practical aspects of the publishing industry.  They will learn how to format manuscripts, and compose a writer’s biography and writer’s CV.  They will also research prospective markets for their work, such as magazines, e-zines, and writing competitions, and learn how to submit to these markets, and how to approach an editor.  Particular emphasis will be given to short fiction and poetry markets.  In addition, students will examine what takes place after publication, and how to present their work in a public setting.  They will also take part in weekly writing workshops, in which they present their own work and analyze that of their peers. 

This module will run as a weekly one-hour seminar, followed by a weekly two-hour workshop.  Topics and themes for the seminars will include: composing a writer’s CV and bio, researching markets, crafting a cover letter, and presenting yourself and your work, among others.  Each year, a guest speaker from the industry (either a writer, editor, or publisher) will be invited to speak to the class, to give them a practical tips and advice regarding getting published.

A student passing this module should be able to:

1. demonstrate ability to compose a professional writer’s CV and biography;

2. show an awareness of potential markets to which they can submit their work, as well as the resources available to writers regarding said markets;

3. craft a professional cover letter to accompany submitted work;

4. demonstrate that they clearly understand the submission process, including all the accepted industry protocals in regards to mailing, querying, and response times;

5. show they have a basic understanding of the writing industry, and the means by which editors select work for publication;

6. present themselves and their work in a wide range of forms and formats.

The Library Catalogue contains full details of the current reading list for this module. Further details may also be found in the Module Guide.