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.
Kim says
Hi Mandy,
Thanks for posting this info, I’ve signed up for the course, and look forward to delving into it!
Cheers,
Kim
Mandy Wallace says
Excellent, Kim. Hope to see you there!
Emily Buchans says
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!!
Mandy says
Glad to share it, Emily! See you there.
Rachel says
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
Mandy says
Much appreciated, Rachel! Happy writing.
NIHARIKA THUKRAL says
How do I sign up?
Mandy says
You can sign up here, Niharika: http://iwp.uiowa.edu/iwp-courses/distance-learning-courses/fall-2015/how-writers-write-fiction
Chad says
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 🙂
Mari says
Thanks for sharing, I so needed this for accountability and it’s FREE!?! See you there!
Eve Remillard says
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?
Jim says
Free stuff!!
It’s cool too…
Thanks!
Léa says
That’s so amazing ! It would be amazing if this kind of workshop existed in France…
Uma Chandel says
Would love to take up this free course! Do I start from week one, or am I late in joining?
Mandy says
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!
Tammy says
Sadly, it is nowhere to be found on their site. I just found this article on Pinterest and was very excited. =/
David Russell says
\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)
Mandy Wallace says
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!
Jim says
I just found this on Pinterest today, September 28, 2016. Is there anyway to access an archived version of this course?
Mandy Wallace says
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!
Evangeline and Clarke Wilde says
Thank you Mandy for information on this class. We are participating this year (2016) and are excited about it.
Karel Brezina says
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
Mandy Wallace says
It looks like the class just started. Go sign up!
Karel Brezina says
Hi Mandy,
would you be so nice and write me link where I can sign up?
Thanks so much.
Karel
Mandy Wallace says
Sure! Here you go:
https://novoed.com/how-writers-write-fiction-2016
Vivian says
Is there a non fiction version of this class?
Lyn says
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 says
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
Mandy says
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.
Tia says
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