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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the MPub program?

The program is 16 months long—four terms of four months each, including the internship term. 

Residency in Vancouver is required for the first eight months (terms one and two). The internship (term 3) and the project report completion (term 4) do not require residency in Vancouver.

How many students are admitted each year?

A maximum of 20 students are admitted each year.

Which areas of study do MPub students come from?

Master of Publishing students come to the program from all continents. They have studied art and humanities, social sciences, math, science, economics, business administration, and computer science. They have worked in publishing, printing, government, media and communications, and in the service, retail, and nonprofit sectors. They have been employed by large corporations, small proprietorships, universities, government offices, art galleries, NGOs, community groups, and social service agencies.

Will I be the oldest (or youngest) student in the cohort of 20?

MPub students range in age from their early twenties to their late fifties.

How much does the program cost?

Graduate student tuition fees are set on a yearly basis. Students are assessed a fee per unit and ancillary fees. There are 37 units divided over the first two semesters and 5 units in each of the last two semesters. Detailed fee information may be found at: http://www.sfu.ca/dean-gradstudies/future/tuition-and-fees.html

Foreign and domestic students pay the same fees.

What should I include in my portfolio?

The portfolio should be a clear demonstration of the skills and abilities you will bring to the Master of Publishing program. Many applicants submit a cover sheet listing the contents of the portfolio and noting how the student created or contributed to the creation of the contents. Portfolios can include, but are not limited to, examples of design work, desktop publishing samples, newsletter and/or brochure samples, articles or books (for those who have experience in editing), samples of photography and examples of academic writing. Portfolios are to be uploaded to the graduate online application unless previous arrangements have been made with the Program Advisor (pub-info@sfu.ca).

Can I take the MPub program in the evening or through distance education?

There is no evening or distance education option.

What career opportunities will be available to me?

More than forty guest publishing professionals make presentations and consult with MPub students as part of the coursework. Industry professionals provide students with valuable contacts as well as top-notch training. Thanks to these networking opportunities, as well as the internship semester, most graduates of the Master of Publishing program (more than 300) are working throughout the book, magazine, and online publishing industries, or in associated organizations, as well as in government departments and agencies in Canada and abroad.

Are awards and financial aid available?

Yes. Information on financial aid is available from SFU Student Services: http://students.sfu.ca/financialaid/#grad

Information about awards is available from the Program Advisor at pub-info@sfu.ca