FAQ
How many students are accepted?
30, plus approximately 10–12 on a wait list.
How many students apply?
It varies, but in recent history, there have been approximately 120 applications.
Do I need a portfolio?
You are not required to have a portfolio if you meet the English language requirement. If you score 4 on either the Langara English Test (LET) or Language Proficiency Index (LPI), a portfolio is required in an area other than writing. This is to demonstrate experience or skills that will likely mean you can spend less time on one course or subject area should you need to spend a little extra time on writing or editing course assignments.
What is the English language requirement?
A C+, or better, final grade in a first-year university-level English or Communications course. At Langara, ENGL 1127 qualifies. Or, a score of 5 on either the LET (Langara English Test) or LPI (Language Proficiency Index).
How do I find out about the LET or LPI?
See the Langara College website for information on these tests. The LET is Langara College's test. It is written on campus, often on weekends. The LPI is offered at other institutions and venues including UBC.
What certification will I earn?
A two-year diploma, which is 60 or more credits and is typically offered in 4 semesters (fall & spring). Publishing is an intensive three-semester full-time program, offered each year starting in the fall and finishing in August. Graduation ceremonies are typically in early June. Courses are held in the afternoons and evenings.
What do I need to do to apply?
Start by visiting the department’s website and look for the area titled “Admissions Requirements” in the “Programs” link. Everything is listed there. The Application for Admission Form is available online or from the Admissions office.
Do grads of the program get jobs?
Graduates do find jobs in publishing and publishing-related areas. While there is no formal job placement program, there is an alumni listserv by which we distribute work opportunities received by faculty. We receive numerous requests from employers to distribute opportunities to our grads and have earned a solid reputation in the Lower Mainland publishing industry. Many faculty members have industry contacts and there are several industry tours, particularly in the spring semester.
What if I need to show a portfolio?
If a portfolio is required (score of 4 on either the LET or LPI), arrangements will be made for a department member to see a small collection of work samples (writing samples do not qualify). 4–6 pieces is sufficient; photography, drawing, fine art of any type (ie. photos of sculpture or pottery), website or digital animation or video (on CD or DVD). For out-of-town applicants, samples can be sent via e-mail or other arrangements may be made.
I’ve been out of school for several years. Will I be the only “mature” student?
While there is no way to predict the backgrounds and ages of incoming students, the Publishing program traditionally has attracted individuals from a wide range of ages and backgrounds. Many have previous post-secondary education and are attracted to the one-year, hands-on approach. Some are changing careers or updating skills for their current career. Students who have been most successful in the program are open to learning new things, have good time management skills, and a desire to experiment and learn from many sources.
What is the approximate cost?
At September 2011: tuition fees are $84.90 per credit to a maximum of 18 credits per semester. With over 18 credits in two of the three semesters, Publishing is a bargain! In addition there are Student Union Fees (basic: $14.78 + $3.61/credit) and a Capital Building Legacy fund ($32.40/semester), as well as textbooks and materials fees for some courses. To learn more, see Tuition & Service Fees page.
Note: Fees are subject to change, including Student Health and Dental Plan, and U-Pass. The per-semester cost, excluding textbooks, materials fees, dental plan and U-Pass, is approximately $1840.
Do I need to do any preparation for September courses?
Some students find it useful to work on a Macintosh computer, if possible. You certainly needn’t buy a Macintosh computer for this purpose. It’s recommended that students who are considering buying a computer for home use wait until about midway in the fall semester, or later, to make a decision on just what computer and software to buy. It is intended that students can complete the program without having a computer at home. Having a home Windows or Mac computer with word processing and internet capability would be useful, but is not required.
