About MatadorU

Image of local kids in Gaza by Ryan Rodrick Beiler

MatadorU is an online education center for travel writers, photographers, and filmmakers.

We launched in August of 2009, and have since had hundreds of students graduate from our travel writing and travel photography programs, many winning awards, landing publications, and becoming media professionals.

The creation of MatadorU was an organic process that formed out of our worldwide travel community and independent travel publication. As the size of our audience and community took off (in 2009 we became the biggest independent travel publication online), we found potential contributors sending work that exhibited the same kinds of mistakes over and over. Instead of continuing to simply reject submissions that weren’t right for Matador, we recognized an opportunity: by offering online classes, we could provide students the same kind of feedback and interaction that’s always been part of our editorial process.

Various members of Matador’s editorial team shared their experiences and perspectives, helping this early vision of MatadorU evolve into its present form, where not just beginners, but writers and photographers at any level of their careers could find resources and education, as well as a supportive community of both teachers and students.

Market Blog

One of the most dynamic elements of MatadorU, and a great example of how it has evolved, is the Market Blog. Originally a roundup of writing, photography, and other new media leads and gigs, it has become an extensive resource involving both students and editors who share first hand information on how to best approach specific markets and editors, as well as personal contacts and referrals.

And as an ultimate compliment to our program, increasing numbers of industry standard travel publishers such as AOL, Nile Guide, 10Best and other guidebooks, magazines, and websites are now specifically requesting that we post their writing and press trip opportunities – some of them exclusive to MatadorU students and alumni – at the Market Blog.

Dozens of students and alumni have found their first paid gigs as travel writers this way.

Our Courses


Future Plans

MatadorU has several new features planned in the upcoming months, including technology upgrades and new social networking features. We are in talks with various organizations and academic institutions regarding the possibilities of offering academic credit.

Groups or organizations interested in partnering are welcome to contact us.