Note: This course is concluded. Find similar distance learning courses in writing from The University of Iowa’s International Writing Program.
As much as we writers would love it, writing classes aren’t always accessible. Unless you’re talking about the massive open online course (MOOC for short) that the University of Iowa’s Writers’ Workshop is offering right now. For free.
Education in our lovely USA is cost prohibitive for most. And who has time to put life on hold or move a few states over to pursue an MFA, no matter how wonderful it would be to pursue only writing for two wonderful years.
How Writers Write Fiction is an 8-week course for writers. All online. All free. It’s available to everyone. And many busy writers, both beginner and advanced, will appreciate the fiction fundamentals, short video lectures from successful authors, the chance to flex your writing muscles and get feedback, forum discussions with instructors, plus all the wonderful writers you’ll meet along the way.
If you know anything about the University of Iowa’s famed writing workshop, you know that most consider it the best MFA program anywhere. Heavy-hitting authors like Kurt Vonnegut and Robert Frost have taught there. And this free program gives every writer the chance to take a little of that expertise into their own writing practice.
This class is one thing I’m doing to recharge between writing projects now that my big writing project is all done and I’m figuring out what to do next.
The program shared an incredible story resource called Electric Literature’s Recommended Reading where you can find free stories. That’s where you’ll find this week’s reading assignment, a short story called “Where We Must Be” by Laura Van Den Berg.
What are you doing to improve your writing skills this month? Let me know in the comments.
Hi Mandy,
Thanks for posting this info, I’ve signed up for the course, and look forward to delving into it!
Cheers,
Kim
Excellent, Kim. Hope to see you there!
I signed up also. I already love it and am learning so much. Thank -you doesn’t describe how much I appreciate you sharing this!!
Glad to share it, Emily! See you there.
Oh my gosh, Mandy. I am so pumped that you posted this. This is exactly what I need right now. Thanks so much for sharing, and keep up the great work on your blog! 🙂
-Rachel
Much appreciated, Rachel! Happy writing.
How do I sign up?
You can sign up here, Niharika: http://iwp.uiowa.edu/iwp-courses/distance-learning-courses/fall-2015/how-writers-write-fiction
Hey Mandy,
I was thinking about joining the online MFA course (or even applying in real life). I was wondering about what kind of fiction do the other students do, and would it be a good community for me? I’d really appreciate the inside scoop 🙂
Thanks for sharing, I so needed this for accountability and it’s FREE!?! See you there!
I just found this post on Pint rest (11/14) and imagine you are neat the end of the eight weeks. Will you be offering this free online course again?
Free stuff!!
It’s cool too…
Thanks!
That’s so amazing ! It would be amazing if this kind of workshop existed in France…
Would love to take up this free course! Do I start from week one, or am I late in joining?
If I understand correctly they’ve left all the video lectures and exercises open on the site, presumably until they restart with the new course next year. I very highly recommend going through the coursework, even on your own. And even better if you have a critique group you can share your exercises with for some feedback. Good luck, Uma!
Sadly, it is nowhere to be found on their site. I just found this article on Pinterest and was very excited. =/
\Hello,
I am a struggling writer of both fiction as an avocation and content articles as a freelancer and wonder if you could recommend a short MOOC course or set of audio lectures that might help me with short story writing. I participate in a critique group and some have told me my style is ameture. I’m discouraged but not wanting to give up. Your recommended assistance is appreciated and requested. Thank you.
David Russell (Michigan)
Good question, David. If you listen to podcasts, I like the one from DIYMFA. As far as classes, I’d google “open creative writing courses” and see what pops up. Good luck!
I just found this on Pinterest today, September 28, 2016. Is there anyway to access an archived version of this course?
I’m pretty sure last year’s class is wiped now, Jim, because the course is starting up fresh in just a few days. Maybe I’ll see you there!
Thank you Mandy for information on this class. We are participating this year (2016) and are excited about it.
Hi Mandy,
I would like to participate in this course this year (2016) please would you be so nice and let me know when it will start.
Here is my email: karel.brezina@icloud.com
Best regards and nice days….
Karel
It looks like the class just started. Go sign up!
Hi Mandy,
would you be so nice and write me link where I can sign up?
Thanks so much.
Karel
Sure! Here you go:
https://novoed.com/how-writers-write-fiction-2016
Is there a non fiction version of this class?
I have a story that needs to be told and do not know where to start. I would like to take this course on line as I live in Canada and haven’t any way of attending a class. Can you please advise me how I go about getting admitted? Thanks a bunch. Any info you can give me would be very much appreciated.
I have a story that needs to be told and do not know where to start. I would like to take this course on line as I live in Canada and haven’t any way of attending a class. Can you please advise me how I go about getting admitted? Thanks a bunch. Any info you can give me would be very much appreciated.
Lyn
The writing courses offered through this platform are all online and open to the public. Click the link in the article to find out more about their offerings and how to get involved.
I am writing each time I get the urge. I’m even reading my work (I know that must sound weird but I am a work in progress ) I’m finished with the First book and on the second. Now I just have to get the courage to edit and publish