The Creative Publishing and Critical Journalism (CPCJ) program surveys print and digital publishing platforms for news, magazine features, and other content, placing emphasis on critical and forward-looking forms. CPCJ broadens the lens of traditional
journalism programs with its emphasis on design, contemporary publishing practices, political thought, and genres including cultural criticism, long-form creative nonfiction, and reflective writing. The work of the program’s students and faculty is
deeply informed by in-depth critical theory and research.
The master's program is aimed at a variety of students: writers, reporters, and editors committed to fostering social change and intellectual engagement; graphic designers who aspire to bring writing, editing, and criticism into their practice; editors
who wish to start new publications; cultural critics and political thinkers interested in raising the level of public commentary.
Students are taught by CPCJ faculty and guest lecturers with extensive industry experience, including award-winning writers and editors from the New York Times, The Intercept, The Nation, Vanity Fair, Verso Books, FSG Books, and other outlets.
Through our program, students:
- Investigate the many forms of contemporary print and online publishing in New York City and beyond, including books, magazines, journals, alternative media, 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 ask what obligation (if any) reporters, writers, scholars, or citizens have to tell the truth
- Develop an understanding of the process of creating scholarly and conceptually rich content for various platforms
- Engage in experiential learning in visual communications and new media technology, benefiting from the expertise of Parsons School of Design, a world-class institution for designers and artists that is part of The New School
- Choose from electives offered in The New School's world-famous graduate programs in politics, philosophy, creative writing, and other subjects
- Establish relationships with industry professionals and build a professional network
Graduates emerge from this program with a unique portfolio of work and a broad set of skills. Students don't just explore big ideas, great books, and contemporary theories of media. They also benefit from hands-on learning experiences: immersing themselves
in New York’s publishing world, writing for online and print platforms, engaging in personal expression, attending writing-intensive seminars, participating in collaborative multimedia studio courses, connecting with industry professionals, and working
on group and individual capstone projects.