Students come to the Writers’ Program from all over the world for a number of reasons: to learn basic creative writing skills, for a creative outlet, to explore the novel idea they’ve had simmering in the back of their mind for years. The majority of our students, however, come with an end-game: to have their work published or produced. But writing is rewriting, and finishing a first draft is just the beginning of the journey. This is where the Writers’ Program sets itself apart from other non-degree programs. With advanced classes, intensive multi-quarter master classes, and one-on-one mentorships and consultations, our programming is designed to set students on a course towards publishing success.

So where to begin if you are looking to rewrite, refine, or polish your work (and most importantly, get it out into the world!)? Read on to learn which advanced option is right for you.

Advanced Classes

If you enjoy working in a collaborative environment with other talented writers, then our advanced classes will likely be hugely beneficial for you. Offered on a quarterly basis in both creative writing and screenwriting, topics include feature film, television, novel, short story, and creative nonfiction writing. Enrollment is by submission only, so you know you’ll be studying with the cream of the crop, and is limited to only 12 students.

Master Classes

Our master classes meet for 6 or 9 months, are limited to 8 students, and include amazing perks like having your work read by an agent at the end of the class (click here to read more about our master class benefits). Master classes are unique in that they meet for multiple quarters, so you dig deep into your work and that of your classmates, and can offer insights that might not bubble up in a 10 week class. This year we are offering our Master Class in Novel Writing (Online/Low-Residency, 9 Months) with Lynn Hightower, Master Class in Feature Film Writing (9 Months) with Billy Mernit, and Master Class in Television Pilot Writing (6 Months) with Phil Kellard. Applications are due by August 29, so don’t delay. Click on the links above for detailed application instructions.

Mentorships

Perhaps you’d prefer an interactive, yet one-on-one experience with a professional writer who will help guide you towards your best work. If this sounds like you, look no further than the mentorship program. With five-days-a-week email access to your instructor, together you’ll work through the specific writing roadblocks or craft issues that you find most challenging, and in turn, find your best writing. Sessions run every four weeks, so you can spend as little or as much time with your mentor as you and your project need.

Consultations

Similar to mentorships in their one-on-one structure, consultations differ in that they are less interactive, notes are only given once, and there are no revisions. Comments and critique are provided in writing and over the phone, with the aim of getting student work in tip-top shape to send out for publication/production. This is a great option if you want a professional read-through with notes before you send your work out into the world.

If this sounds overwhelming, worry not. Writers’ Program advisors are here five days a week to answer your questions and guide you towards the best program to help you reach your goals. Call us 310-825-9415 or email writers@uclaextension.edu. We look forward to hearing from you!

Katy Flaherty is the Program Representative for Creative Writing (Onsite).

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