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Master Class in Novel Writing
WRITING X 411.6
Get intensive, individualized instruction as you rewrite your novel, preparing your manuscript for presentation to agents and publishers to begin the process of turning it into a book.
Give and get feedback from similarly motivated writers working at a very high level
Forge a collaborative writing community with classmates over 9 months of work
Complete a thorough rewrite of your book
Get feedback from a professional agent on your query letter and a manuscript excerpt
About this course:
This dynamic and rigorous Master Class in Novel Writing is designed for those serious about revising and polishing their novels and getting published. The nine-month, 30-week structure allows for intensely individual instruction, peer critiques from a community of liked-minded, talented writers and a focus on process and results. Each participant's unique voice is cultivated so that it remains true to the singular vision for his or her novel, while ongoing one-on-one mentoring by a professional novelist provides distinctly personal support. Workshops include discussion and implementation of the basic craft elements of writing including, but not limited to, developing structure, creating vibrant, memorable characters, setting and maintaining tone, creating scenes that further your theme and the art of revision. Guest speakers (authors, agents, editors) share their insights on writing, publishing and staying balanced through the sometimes daunting process of it all. Master Class students' novel excerpts are submitted to an established agent for review and consideration at the completion of the course. Participants may withdraw their application anytime before acceptance.
Admission to this course is by application only and the selection process is competitive. It is recommended that students take intermediate-level courses prior to submitting their work. When this course is open for enrollment, click "See Details" for application guidelines and quarterly application deadlines.
Spring 2025 Schedule
Date & Time
Details
Format
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This section has no set meeting times.
Future Offering (Opens February 03, 2025 12:00:00 AM)
No meetings June 11 - July 1, 2025 and September 10 - September 30, 2025. Live meet ups on Zoom to be announced for occasional cohort meetings and guest speakers.
A full novel manuscript submission is required as part of the application.
Restricted course; approval needed to enroll. Not eligible for any discounts. Enrollment limited to eight students; early enrollment advised. Visitors not permitted. No refund after enrollment. Internet access required.
The priority deadline for applications is Monday, March 3 at 9 am PT. Applications submitted after this date are not guaranteed consideration.
Application Submission Guidelines for Master Class in Novel Writing
Please submit the following materials (Word Document or PDF only). The first document must contain: a one-page personal statement that includes your writing background, previous creative writing courses taken; a two-page synopsis of your work-in-progress; and an excerpt of one complete scene you feel is one of the best and accurately reflects your work-in-progress (no longer than 12 pages). In a separate document, you must also submit the full, completed first draft of your novel manuscript.
Note: Participants in this master class work only on the project submitted for admission. No exceptions. Each page should be numbered, typed in 12-point Times New Roman font, and double spaced with 1-inch margins.
This online course is conducted through Canvas, a secure website that allows students to log in to access lectures, discussions, and other course materials on demand. There are no required live class meetings. Each course is structured with weekly assignments and deadlines. Lectures and coursework are accessible throughout the week. Workshops are conducted in writing via discussion boards with your instructor and classmates.
Refund Deadline
No refunds after March 03, 2025
Course Requirements
Internet access required to retrieve course materials.
Dialogue : The Art of Verbal Action for Page, Stage, and Screen
by Robert McKee
Grand Central Publishing
ISBN 9781455591916
Self-Editing for Fiction Writers
by Renni Browne
HarperCollins Publishers
ISBN 9780060545697
Character: The Art of Role and Cast Design for Page, Stage, and Screen
by Robert McKee
Grand Central Publishing
ISBN 9781455591954
Into the Woods : A Five-Act Journey into Story
by John Yorke
Abrams, Inc.
ISBN 9781468310948
The Business of Being a Writer
by Jane Friedman
niversity of Chicago Press
ISBN 9780226393162
Contact Us
Speak to a student advisor. Hours: Mon-Fri, 8am-5pm.
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