Get Started
The Autumn 2009 program is no longer accepting applications
Next program starts: Winter 2010
Single courses may be available
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Interested in taking a single class? Some courses (designated by a 
below) may be open on a space-available basis to individuals who are not seeking the certificate. See Single-Course Enrollment for details.
Autumn Course
Generating Memoir Material
Schedule: Reg #102264. UW campus, Seattle, Tuesdays, 6:30-9:30 p.m., Oct. 6-Dec. 8, 2009; $619; 3 CEUs. Instructor: Theo Pauline Nestor
Looking to write a memoir but not sure where to start? This is the class for you. Generating Memoir Material offers the tools for beginning a memoir - whether it be a book-length narrative or a collection of essays. This class takes a two-pronged approach: you will delve into memory to produce memoir material (often prompted by in-class exercises or short take-home assignments), and you will learn to recognize the elements of a compelling memoir (narrative structure, character development, dialogue, setting and more). You will also begin to use these elements as you submit and receive feedback on your own written work. In addition, you will gain tools to develop your own writing schedule and identify your goals and vision as a writer.
This course is full as of August 20, 2009. You are welcome to call 206-543-2310 to be added to the waitlist for the course; if space becomes available, waitlisted individuals will be contacted in the order that their requests were received. Alternatively, you are welcome to register for the six-month Memoir program that begins in Bellevue in Winter 2010, which is currently open. For details, please click here .
Winter Course
Organizing Your Material
Schedule: UW campus, Seattle, Tuesdays, 6:30-9:30 p.m., Jan. 5-Mar. 9, 2010; $619; 3 CEUs. Instructor: Theo Pauline Nestor
How do writers of memoir organize their material to create a unified story? This is the driving question that will propel us through Writing the Memoir: Organizing Your Material. Reading a number of published memoirs together, we will analyze how writers structure their stories by using narrative arc, chapter development, and transitions between chapters. We will also examine how authors use sections, prologues, epilogues, framing devices, and scene and summary to communicate their stories. In addition, we'll discuss how to write about secrets and other sensitive subjects. You will continue to generate new writing, begin to organize the memoir material you have so far, and find its inherent structure.
How to sign up for individual enrollment in this course
Spring Course
Polishing Your Material
Schedule: UW campus, Seattle, Tuesdays, 6:30-9:30 p.m., March 30-June 1, 2010; $619; 3 CEUs. Instructor: Theo Pauline Nestor
What is it that makes some stories leap off the page so you feel like you know the author? One answer is "voice" - the distinctive style of expression that marks the work of a particular writer. The voice of the individual author is what we will examine in this course. We will analyze the memoirs we've read this year - and a few new ones - to see how writers use language to make their stories vibrantly alive and unique. As part of the focus on language, you will learn how to edit your own work so that your own voice can rise to the surface. In addition, we will examine the world of magazine and book publishing, including how to query agents, submit your work, and develop relationships with editors. As the quarter ends, we'll focus on developing a plan for supporting your writing after the course is over.
How to sign up for individual enrollment in this course
