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Certificate

Literary Genres in Book Publishing

Learn the skills to edit, publish, and market a book in today’s publishing world straight from industry leaders in a 4-week summer intensive from the Denver Publishing Institute (DPI). Then, through Professional Creative Writing courses at the College of Professional Studies, complete the certificate and build a deep understanding of literary genres as writers view them. See important information in FAQs. You will:

  • Interact with seasoned publishers in workshops, small groups, and one-on-one discussions
  • Learn skills in editing, marketing, production, and distribution
  • Gain a market-focused understanding of editorial, marketing, and sales roles

Note: You must apply and be admitted to DPI’s summer course before you enroll in the certificate. We highly recommend speaking with enrollment advisor Chris Heriza about this unique and exciting program.

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Top-ranked, career-focused education in a flexible online format.

At a Glance

Classes Next Begin
March 31

Term Length
10 Weeks

4 Course Certificate
Tuition

$13,344

6 Course Certificate
Tuition

$20,016

Format
Asynchronous and Hybrid Online

Admission Details
Free Application. No GRE or GMAT

How Long to Finish
As quickly as 6 months. Access a sample schedule

How Long to Finish
As quickly as 9 months. Access a sample schedule

Top-Ranked University by U.S. News & World Report

Brian Cicero

Connect with an Advisor

Free Application

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University College is committed to educational access, and given the difficult circumstances currently impacting millions of people, we are waiving application fees.

Featured Instructors

Skills You’ll Learn

Develop a comprehensive understanding of the modern publishing landscape and best practices
Master techniques for effectively promoting and selling books in today’s competitive market
Give and receive constructive critiques that clarify your values and enhance your skills

Curriculum

The Advanced Graduate Certificate in Literary Genres in Book Publishing requires completion of 26 credit hours (6 courses).

3
Concentration Courses
 
3
Elective Courses
 
Concentration Courses

Focus on a specific professional area within the larger industry sector and master the skills needed to excel in that area.

ENGL 4851 Publishing Institute
PWRI 4000 Masterworks: Fiction
PWRI 4100 Masterworks: Creative Nonfiction
Elective Courses

Select three of the following courses:

PWRI 4200 Masterworks: Poetry
PWRI 4410 Writing and Healing
PWRI 4510 Literary Genres for Writers
PWRI 4540 Children’s Literature
PWRI 4600 Breaking the Chains of Genre

Frequently Asked Questions

What is unique about the Literary Genres in Book Publishing Graduate Certificate?

This certificate is a unique partnership between the College of Professional Studies and the Denver Publishing Institute (DPI), DU’s one-of-a-kind institute helping book lovers launch their publishing careers. It combines the institute’s 4-week summer program with graduate courses in four key literary genres offered through the College of Professional Studies to provide an unparalleled education in publishing.

What are the requirements to enroll in the certificate program?

Before you enroll in the certificate, you must apply and be admitted to DPI’s summer course. The next course will take place from Sunday, July 13 through Friday, August 8, 2025. In addition, you must meet the standard College of Professional Studies admission requirements for a 6-course graduate certificate.

What can I expect from the DPI summer course?

At the intensive 4-week DPI program in Denver, top industry leaders present workshops, lectures, special sessions, and one-on-one discussions with seasoned publishers. Professionals will guide you through the processes of editing, marketing, book production, and distribution in both independent publishing houses and global media companies.

We encourage you to attend the summer DPI course in person, although an online option is also available.

What can I expect from the College of Professional Studies courses in the certificate program?

Over six courses (three required and three electives), you’ll learn about various literary genres from a creative, rather than industry, point of view. These courses will build a depth of understanding that will help you work collaboratively with aspiring writers, giving you an edge in the publishing industry.

What is the timeline to complete the certificate program?

Once admitted to the DPI summer course, you can begin taking courses through the College of Professional Studies at any time (see Curriculum section above). You can complete the certificate in as little as 12 months. If you’ve completed the DPI course within the past three years, you can apply those credits to the Literary Genres in Book Publishing certificate.

Interested in a master’s degree?

Explore our Master of Arts in Professional Creative Writing with concentrations in nonfiction, dramatic, fiction and poetry writing.

Take a Course Before You Apply

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We know how important it is to get started when you’re ready. That’s why you can enroll in a course before you officially apply.

Career Opportunities

Select Job Titles

Editor
Production Manager
Marketing Manager
Market Research Analyst
Digital Product Editor
Editorial Assistant
Publicist
Literary Agent

Writer and Author Salary​: National Average

$61,820

(U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)

College of Professional Studies students have access to University of Denver Career Services including:

  • One-on-one career coaching and mock interviews
  • A job database dedicated to DU students and alumni
  • Resume and cover letter guidance

Check out our jobs tool to explore job postings, salaries, and top companies in your geographic area.

Accreditation

 

Higher Learning Commission

College of Professional Studies programs maintain the highest level of accreditation offered by The Higher Learning Commission, one of the regional accrediting bodies recognized by the federal government. The University of Denver and all its academic programs are regionally accredited by this commission, and regional accreditation is the highest standard for universities in the United States.

Take the Next Step

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