This is a 12-hour track in the Masters program. Three core courses (9 hours) are taught by Professor Robert Langenfeld. E-Mail him if you have questions.
English 620 is designed to familiarize you with issues relevant to the fundamentals of publishing, especially as they relate to the role of the editor. We combine the practical with reflections on what contemporary publishing is concerned with today, while keeping traditions in mind. By way of background, I present lectures on subjects pertinent to the topics listed below. Throughout the semester we practice editing skills (with two case studies from English Literature in Transition), discuss background readings (from e-reserves in the library), and utilize the course website to further explore topics and publish your essays. Videos from C-SPAN and two guest speakers will also be part of English 620. You conclude the semester by either creating a graphics project using Adobe's Photoshop and Illustrator. This course is required for those who wish to do advanced work in English 621 (Seminar in Publishing).
In the major assignment you team up with a fellow student to ready a "book" for press. You and your colleague will originate an idea for a book, select a press, write a proposal, and then design your book (ad copy, book jacket, prelims, opening pages of chapter one). This desktop publishing project will employ Adobe's InDesign, Illustrator and Photoshop. In addition to referring to our selected readings on book design, I will offer background on book proposals, copy writing, and design. At the end of the semester you will present your book to the "editorial board" (i.e., the class).
This seminar advances the study of subjects initially covered in the prerequisite course, English 620 (Contemporary Publishing) and prepares students for English 622 (Writing and Editing Internship).
English 622 is where students test what they've learned in English 620 and 621. Your interests lead the way in locating an appropriate internship. In the past, students have interned (15-20 hours per week during the semester) with printers, small presses or corporations with publishing units. They have also interned with Oxford University Press (Cary, NC), Wake Forest University Press, Algonquin Press, and Blair Press, among others.
Theory and application of computer technology in the study of language, rhetoric and composition, and literature, including related ethical, social, and philosophical issues.
Problems of organization and express in books, articles, and reports. For those writing for publication, or whose work in business or government requires a great deal of writing.
Note: English 623 (Writing-Advanced: Non-Fiction) is open to all interested graduate students the English and Creative Writing Programs.
Also: A Course Approved with Permission of the Director of Graduate Studies