MA Literature and Publishing in Galway Ireland | University of Galway

Established in 1995, this well-regarded MA program continues to be Ireland's sole postgraduate course focused exclusively on literature and publishing. This unique curriculum examines the connections between creative writing and commercial markets, literary works and their dissemination, as well as the artistic and physical dimensions of texts. Throughout this twelve-month program, participants expand their literary understanding while acquiring practical skills in marketing, editorial processes, production techniques, and the commercial realities of modern publishing. The program enhances scholarly abilities in literary criticism while prioritizing career readiness. Participants engage in specialized workshops covering internship searches, resume and cover letter writing, interview techniques, and personal branding, with optional Adobe InDesign instruction available. Students can also obtain hands-on publishing experience by contributing to ROPES, an annual literary journal entirely created by program participants. This extracurricular initiative offers real-world experience in editing, project coordination, design, marketing, sales, and collaborative work. The program regularly hosts industry professionals from publishing houses like Tramp Press, OBrien Press, and Gill Books, along with representatives from literary festivals and educational organizations. Field trips to cultural institutions, printing facilities, and publishing companies complement classroom learning, with opportunities for volunteering at literary events and internships with Irish publishers.
Career Pathways
Graduates of the MA in Literature and Publishing develop specialized publishing expertise along with highly transferable skills in communication, research, project coordination, teamwork, and analytical thinking that are valued across multiple industries.
Alumni have established careers in publishing houses, arts organizations, marketing firms, and media companies. Program graduates have found success in diverse fields including book retail, arts management, digital marketing, and corporate communications.