The Creative Publishing and Critical Journalism (CPCJ) master's program surveys traditional forms of book and magazine publishing while exploring the possibilities of new media, placing an emphasis on unorthodox and forward-looking forms. CPCJ broadens
the lens of traditional journalism programs with its emphasis on design, contemporary print and digital publishing practices, and genres of cultural criticism, long-form creative nonfiction, and reflective writing that is deeply informed by rigorous
critical theory and research.
The master's program is aimed at a variety of students: writers and reporters who dream of becoming the next Susan Sontag or Glenn Greenwald; graphic designers who aspire to bring writing, editing, and criticism into their practices; and editors who dream
of starting a new intellectual quarterly to follow in the footsteps of affiliated faculty like Jonathan Baskin, the founder of The Point.
Guided by CPCJ faculty with extensive industry experience, students:
- Investigate the many forms of contemporary print and online publishing in New York City, including books, magazines, journals, alternative media, print-on-demand, and small-batch publications
- Gain foundational knowledge of the history, traditions, and styles of cultural criticism and critical theory
- Question the authority and reliability of the information conveyed by media and explore what obligation (if any) reporters, writers, scholars, or citizens have to tell the truth
- Develop an understanding of the process of designing, editing, and distributing journals and books containing intellectually serious work across print and online platforms
- Engage in experiential learning in visual communications and new media technology, drawing on the expertise of Parsons School of Design, a world-class institution for designers and artists housed at The New School
- Establish relationships with industry professionals and build a professional network
Graduates emerge from this MA program with a robust portfolio of work and wide set of skills. Students don't just study big ideas, great books, and contemporary theories of media. They also learn how to use media, by learning the ropes of the New York
publishing world, online and in print, up close and personal, through site visits, writing-intensive seminars, collaborative multimedia studio courses, and an individualized capstone project.