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.
No meetings November 28, December 19 - January 2, and March 20 - April 3.
The priority deadline for applications was September 9, 2024. Applications are still being accepted on a rolling basis and will be considered as long as space remains in the course. Please do not delay in submitting.
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. Materials required.
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 course is held via video teleconference. Instructors use Zoom to offer live class meetings at the designated class meeting time. Students must be present at the course meeting time as each student’s final grade may include scores for participation. Please inform your instructor if you will miss a class meeting. You are responsible for any class information you missed. We suggest you arrange with a fellow classmate to share their notes when feasible.
Refund Deadline
No refunds after September 10, 2024
Course Requirements
Internet access required to retrieve course materials.
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