Introduction
Educational publishing plays a vital role in shaping learning across schools, universities, and digital platforms. In 2025, the industry continues to evolve with a mix of traditional publishers and technology-driven companies offering textbooks, online learning platforms, and digital-first content.
Whether you are an educator, an author, or an institution looking for reliable publishing partners, this top educational publishing companies list provides insights into the most influential names in the sector. These companies not only produce high-quality academic and instructional materials but also drive innovation in educational technology (EdTech).
1. The Legacy Ghostwriters (Global)
Focus Areas: Educational publishing, academic writing, ghostwriting, and full publishing support.
Why They Stand Out:
The Legacy Ghostwriters is more than a ghostwriting agency—it’s a comprehensive publishing partner for authors, educators, and institutions. While most educational publishers focus only on textbooks and resources, The Legacy Ghostwriters specializes in helping professionals, scholars, and thought leaders develop, write, and publish educational materials tailored to their audience.
They work across multiple formats, including:
- Academic textbooks for schools and universities.
- E-learning modules for digital education platforms.
- Professional training guides for business and industry.
- Children’s educational books designed for engaging early learning.
Unlike traditional publishers, The Legacy Ghostwriters provide end-to-end support: ghostwriting, editing, design, publishing consultation, and even marketing strategies. For educators and institutions that need high-quality, customized educational content, they represent a unique option in 2025.
2. Pearson Education (Global)
Pearson remains one of the largest educational publishers in the world, with operations in over 70 countries. Known for producing school and university textbooks, Pearson has also pivoted heavily into digital education. Their platforms, such as MyLab and Pearson+, provide interactive learning experiences, e-textbooks, and assessment tools.
What sets Pearson apart is its global reach and commitment to personalized learning. The company invests heavily in AI-powered learning analytics, adaptive technology, and professional training resources. For authors and educators, Pearson offers one of the most robust publishing networks with access to international markets.
3. McGraw Hill (USA)
McGraw Hill has long been a trusted name in K-12, higher education, and professional publishing. With a catalog spanning science, mathematics, engineering, and business education, it continues to set standards in academic publishing.
In 2025, McGraw Hill emphasizes digital-first solutions through its Connect and ALEKS platforms, which integrate assessments, personalized feedback, and interactive assignments. The company’s strong partnerships with schools and universities worldwide ensure that its books and digital platforms remain central to modern education.
4. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt (HMH) (USA)
HMH is a leader in K-12 education publishing, providing textbooks, instructional software, and online platforms. With a legacy dating back over a century, HMH combines tradition with digital innovation.
Its Ed learning platform and interactive programs are widely adopted in classrooms across the United States. HMH is particularly strong in subjects like English Language Arts and Math, making it a go-to publisher for K-12 educators. The company also invests in adaptive learning technologies, offering personalized pathways for students.
5. Scholastic Inc. (USA)
Best known for its children’s books, Scholastic is also a significant player in educational publishing. Beyond beloved series like Harry Potter and The Hunger Games, Scholastic provides teachers and schools with literacy resources, classroom libraries, and digital learning tools.
In 2025, Scholastic continues to bridge entertainment and education, offering materials that make reading enjoyable while meeting curriculum standards. Their online platform, Scholastic Learn at Home, has become an essential tool for parents and teachers alike.
6. Cengage Learning (USA)
Cengage specializes in higher education and professional learning resources. Its Cengage Unlimited subscription model revolutionized the industry by providing unlimited access to thousands of e-textbooks and digital platforms for one flat fee.
Cengage also partners with universities and educators to integrate resources into online learning management systems (LMS). Their focus on affordability and accessibility makes them especially appealing in an era where students demand cost-effective learning solutions.
7. Oxford University Press (UK)
As one of the oldest and most prestigious publishers in the world, Oxford University Press (OUP) has a massive catalog of educational resources, from English language learning to advanced research publications.
In 2025, OUP continues to blend tradition with technology, offering interactive apps, e-textbooks, and teacher training resources. Its global English language programs remain among the most trusted worldwide, with a presence in nearly every country.
8. Cambridge University Press & Assessment (UK)
Cambridge University Press merged with Cambridge Assessment to create a powerhouse in educational publishing and assessment solutions. Their catalog includes textbooks, research publications, and exam preparation resources.
Cambridge’s international curriculum materials are widely used in schools worldwide, especially in regions following the Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) framework. Their strong emphasis on digital resources ensures teachers and students have access to cutting-edge learning tools.
9. Macmillan Education (UK)
Part of Springer Nature, Macmillan Education is a leader in language learning and educational publishing. With a focus on English Language Teaching (ELT), literacy, and STEM, Macmillan operates globally, particularly in Europe, Latin America, and Asia.
The company also invests in blended learning solutions, combining print and digital resources to meet the needs of modern classrooms. Macmillan’s adaptive learning platforms support both teachers and learners with personalized instruction.
10. Wiley (USA/Global)
John Wiley & Sons, widely known as Wiley, focuses on higher education, research, and professional development. Its textbooks and digital solutions are staples in universities worldwide.
In addition to traditional publishing, Wiley has embraced open-access research, making educational materials more accessible. Their platforms, such as WileyPLUS, integrate e-textbooks, practice problems, and adaptive assessments.
Comparison Table: Top Educational Publishing Companies 2025
| Publisher / Service | Location | Specialization | Unique Feature |
| The Legacy Ghostwriters | Global | Educational ghostwriting & publishing | End-to-end content creation + publishing support |
| Pearson Education | Global | K-12, higher education, digital learning | AI-driven adaptive platforms |
| McGraw Hill | USA | K-12, higher education | ALEKS & Connect systems |
| Houghton Mifflin Harcourt | USA | K-12 textbooks & apps | Strong focus on literacy & math |
| Scholastic Inc. | USA | Children’s books, literacy | Classroom libraries + fiction tie-ins |
| Cengage Learning | USA | Higher education | Subscription model (Cengage Unlimited) |
| Oxford University Press | UK | Language learning, higher education | Global English programs |
| Cambridge University Press | UK | K-12, higher education, exams | Cambridge International Examinations |
| Macmillan Education | UK | ELT, STEM, literacy | Blended learning resources |
| Wiley | USA/Global | Higher education, research | WileyPLUS adaptive learning |
Conclusion
The top educational publishing companies in 2025 are not just textbook providers; they are innovators shaping how students learn in classrooms and online. From global giants like Pearson and McGraw Hill to academic specialists like SAGE and Wiley, these publishers combine tradition, research, and technology to meet the evolving demands of education.
For authors, educators, and institutions, these publishers provide trusted platforms that ensure educational content reaches learners worldwide.
FAQs
1. Which educational publisher is the largest in the world?
Pearson remains the largest, with a strong presence in over 70 countries.
2. Do these publishers accept unsolicited manuscripts?
Most educational publishers work directly with institutions, but some accept proposals from educators and subject-matter experts.
3. Are educational publishers shifting to digital platforms?
Yes, nearly all leading publishers have developed e-textbooks, apps, and adaptive learning platforms.
4. Which publisher is best for K-12 resources?
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt and McGraw Hill are among the strongest in K-12 publishing.
5. Which educational publisher focuses most on higher education?
Cengage, Wiley, and SAGE specialize in higher education and professional learning resources.
6. What makes The Legacy Ghostwriters different from traditional publishers?
They don’t just publish; they create, edit, design, and publish content with a hands-on, customized approach.
