Nonfiction: Writing Seminar and Portfolio

Build upon the skills and writing process introduced in the first part of the program and gain new knowledge.Topics include:

• Write and receive feedback on a portfolio of publishable quality work that can lay the groundwork to pursue freelance opportunities.
• Shorter- and intermediate-length assignments lead to the program's centerpiece: a publishable, feature-length article, personal essay or book chapter of 2,000 to 3,000 words.
• Focus on how to conduct intensive research, discover your writing voice and identify your audience.
• Hone observational skills, discover new research sources, strengthen the structure of your writing and refine your style and point of view.
• Unlock the secrets of effective narrative reporting and craft transitions and endings.
• Study word choice, imagery, rhythm, cadence, humor and other literary elements.
• Learn how to revise your work and constructively critique that of others. Libel, privacy and ethics in reporting and writing are also covered.
• Learn what is involved in living as a writer – both in terms of ongoing learning and livelihood.
• Address environmental sustainability issues.
• Create a class anthology with your peers to showcase individual writing.
• Marketing approaches will be discussed in terms of the respective goals of class members.

Guest speakers include Knute “Skip” Berger, Peter Fish, Diane Mapes, and Sharlene Martin (subject to change).

Find the Offering That's Right for You

We offer programs throughout the year in different locations and learning formats designed to meet your education needs. To learn more about this program, select one of the following sections.