First degree program to combine creative writing and publishing launches at Sheridan

Next September, Sheridan will launch a unique degree program that marries creative writing and publishing.  The first of its kind in Canada, the Honours Bachelor of Creative Writing and Publishing will see students develop a broad skill set that will prepare them for a range of career options in the rapidly evolving publishing industry.

During the four-year program, students will take core classes in creative writing, publishing and literary studies, with the option to tailor their education in any of these disciplines through elective courses.  An internship in fourth year will let them apply their skills in the ‘real world’ and further refine their career aspirations.

“This program is based on the reality that creative writing alone may not be enough to sustain an individual financially,” says Sean McNabney, Associate Dean in Sheridan’s Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences.  “Our approach gives students the opportunity to find work that’s related to the world of words, and make a living that supports their creative writing goals.”

Through their course of study, students may find that their true métier lies in editing, or in something else that’s ancillary to their writing, he adds.  Students will have opportunities to explore different applications for their skills at Sheridan through collaboration with programs like Film and Television, and Animation, which are driven by narrative.

“A student can partner with, for example, someone in the animation program and be a writer for a particular project,” says Owen Percy, program coordinator.  “There will also be numerous hands-on activities that model industry best practices as well as an internship that they’ll be able to complete at places such as publishing houses, communications and technical writing companies or startups.”

Faculty in the Honours Bachelor of Creative Writing and Publishing are drawn from the industry.  They include Paul Vermeersch, well-known poet and literary editor; Owen Percy, literary reviewer and critic; Robyn Read, former managing editor of the Banff Centre Press; Sarah Yi-Mei Tsiang, poet and author; and Glenn Clifton, playwright and essayist, among others.