Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2026 - PUB 600 G100

Topics in Publishing Management (4)

Class Number: 4721

Delivery Method: Blended

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 9 – Dec 6, 2026: Wed, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    VANCOUVER

  • Prerequisites:

    Admittance to the program.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An analysis of management issues essential to the daily operation of publishing firms. Emphasis will be placed on the distinctive nature of publishing as a cultural/information industry, the applicability of theory and practice in marketing and accounting and the legal underpinnings of publishing.

COURSE DETAILS:

Lecture/Seminar 
Wednesdays, 9:30am - 12:20pm
Location - Combination of Zoom and In-Person Room HCC 2925 (Harbour Centre) TBD

PUB 600 is a foundational course that provides you with tools to navigate the complexities of managing a publishing enterprise. This course is delivered in two sections: the first covers management and financial practices common to the publishing sector. The second section delves into book data and marketing strategies for book publishers.

The emphasis in this course is placed on the distinctive nature of publishing as a cultural/information industry.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

• Analyze and understand the shifting requirements of a publishing proposition
• Plan, manage and work in teams to build successful projects
• Develop value propositions, purpose and mission statements, and strategies for a publishing enterprise
• Interpret a balance sheet, income, and cash flow statements, and produce title P&Ls (Profit & Loss) Statements
• Develop marketing and publicity plans for a variety of publications and pitch plans to an audience

Grading

  • Team Activities 45%
  • Individual Assignments 35%
  • Participation 20%

NOTES:

Please note that the details of this Fall 2026 course are subject to change.

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Publishing for Profit: successful bottom-line management for book publishers by Thomas Woll. (It is available with unlimited downloads through the library.)

Additional reading assignments will come from handouts on Canvas (PDFs and website links).


RECOMMENDED READING:

How to market books by Alison Baverstock and Susannah Bowen. (The library has limited reserve copies for this title.)


Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.