Course Descriptions and Schedule

Interdisciplinary Studies in Writing Certificate Requirements

Four Units of any Writing Courses

May include Writing Workshops, an independent study (not to exceed one), Publishing and Professional Development courses, MCW 575 The Publishing Industry: Literary Presses and Journals, MCW 579 Practicum in Teaching Creative Writing, MCW 580 Practicum in Publishing, any graduate literature course, any MCW 490 elective course, or any other related courses identified by the SPS Graduate Office..

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MCW 461-0 : Nonfiction Workshop


Description

Find the stories you want to tell and learn how to make them strong and compelling. In this workshop, students will explore the elements of great nonfiction through reading, discussion, exercises, and the production of one publication worthy story or essay. We’ll start by reading a selection of exceptional writing across a variety of nonfiction genres, including memoir and literary journalism. We’ll read for pleasure and inspiration and study why these stories are so successful. Then, we’ll do exercises designed to help students develop their craft and take it to a new level of creativity and accomplishment. Learn about structure, characterization, voice, and how to use description and dialogue when the story you’re telling is grounded in true experience, or research and reporting. As students rework their stories through multiple drafts, they’ll receive detailed feedback from the professor designed to help them achieve their individual goals. (This course will be taught remotely on Zoom each week during the time designated.)

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