MA/MS in Book Publishing: Why Book Publishing?

Book publishing is a $26 billion industry in the United States that produces approximately 2.7 billion books each year. Increasingly, the book publishing industry is intertwined with other media industries such as film, television, video games, and music.

People come into the book publishing industry from various educational and vocational backgrounds. Book publishing used to be an apprenticeship-based industry, where new publishing professionals learn the ways of the trade by being mentored by more seasoned publishing professionals. But as the industry grows more competitive, getting that initial job opportunity in publishing has become more difficult. Additionally, new media forms require entrants to the industry to have up-to-date skills in digital production, promotion, and platforms.

A Master’s in Book Publishing sets you apart in this competitive industry and equips you with the skills and experience necessary to be successful in an ever-changing market. A Master’s from Portland State sets you apart because, in addition to the skills and experience needed to enter the industry, you’ll also leave with two years of professional publishing experience, thanks to your work with Ooligan Press.

An overview of many booths at a publishing event.

Careers in Book Publishing

Alumni from PSU's Book Publishing program have been hired for many different jobs across many different sectors.