Writing & Publishing Major
Talent is just the beginning. Today's successful writers combine creative skills with industry knowledge and adaptability.

Put your words to work.
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What is Writing & Publishing?
More Than Just Creative Writing
Writing & Publishing combines creative writing skills with the practical knowledge needed to succeed in today’s media landscape. You’ll learn not just how to write well, but how to market your work, develop your professional brand, and adapt to changing platforms and audiences.
This career-focused approach prepares you for jobs in diverse fields including marketing, publishing, communications, and digital media—where employers value writers who understand both craft and business.
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Why study Writing & Publishing at Champlain?
The Champlain Advantage
Our program offers practical benefits you won’t find in traditional English programs:
- Start taking writing classes right away with our Upside-Down Curriculum
- Learn from published authors and industry professionals who bring real-world expertise
- Make connections with visiting editors, agents, and publishers who come to your classes
- Get published before graduation through our student-run publications
- Build a professional portfolio that showcases your range and abilities
- Develop complementary skills in digital media, marketing, and business
- Work directly with real clients on actual writing projects
Our Burlington campus provides the perfect creative environment with a strong literary community, publishing opportunities, and connections to businesses that need skilled writers.
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What will I learn while studying Writing & Publishing?
By the time you graduate, you will…
- Create professional-quality writing for various platforms and audiences
- Build your personal brand and online presence across social media
- Develop a polished portfolio, resume, and job application materials
- Make connections with industry professionals for job opportunities
- Market yourself and your work effectively to potential employers
- Navigate the business side of writing, including contracts and rights
- Adapt your writing skills to multiple industries and formats

Different by Design
Learn From Working Writers
Your professors aren’t just teachers—they’re active writers with published books, articles, and scripts who bring current industry insights directly to class.
Build Your Network Now
Meet editors, agents, and publishers right in your classroom as guest speakers, giving you the chance to make connections before you graduate.
Make It Real, Right Away
Join student-run publications like Willard & Maple, The Crossover, The Well, and Chivomengro to add published work to your resume before graduation.
Facts & Stats
of Writing & Publishing majors in the Class of 2023 were employed within six months after graduation. That’s success you can see.
Median annual salary for technical writers, according to Glassdoor.com.
Sample Courses in the Writing & Publishing Major
Our carefully designed curriculum focuses on teaching the exact technical and creative skills today’s employers are actively looking for, giving you a competitive edge in the job market:
Career Possibilities
What jobs can I get with a Writing & Publishing degree?
You’ll Find a Career In…
- Copywriting
- Reporting
- Grant Writing
- Communications
- Advertising
- Public Relations
- Column Writing
View Our Student Work

GIRL – Poetic Story
A Professional Writing Capstone created by Birdie Bergeron titled GIRL: A Poetic History of the Beatles Through the Eyes of Jane, Mo, Patti, and Cyn.

SENSE – Creative Collection
A collection of written works and photography by various students.

Wylderwood – Interactive Story
An interactive story created by Sarah Constantine for the Professional Writing Capstone.
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Pre-College Summer Program: Filmmaking & Media Production Exploration Academy
The Filmmaking & Media Production Exploration Academy offers students the opportunity to learn about many of the different jobs available in creating content for film, television, and streaming – including movies, web series, documentaries, commercials, social media, drama, comedy and more. Students work together in a hands-on, supportive environment under the guidance of industry experts with extensive experience working at major film studios and networks.
This program is for students entering grades 10–12 and recent high school graduates.
Learn More on the Pre-College Summer Program Website
More Inside Writing & Publishing Major
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Overview
Talent is just the beginning. Today's successful writers combine creative skills with industry knowledge and adaptability.
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Curriculum
Your career in writing and publishing begins now with Champlain’s Upside-Down Curriculum. Discover the difference that doing on day one has on your success.
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Faculty
Learn more about the experienced professionals leading Champlain College's Writing & Publishing program who are dedicated to teaching and mentoring you.
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Learning Outcomes
Learn the essential skills to build a successful career in the writing field as a versatile and compelling storyteller.