Choose one program. Note: Transfers between programs are not available.
Please note: The downtown section of this program has been cancelled

UW Campus, Seattle (30 sessions). Reg # 104439. $1,499; 9 CEUs.

• Nonfiction: An Introduction: Tuesdays, 6:30-9:30 p.m., Oct. 6-Dec. 8, 2009. Instructor: John B. Saul
• Nonfiction: Writing Seminar and Portfolio: Tuesdays, 6:30-9:30 p.m., Jan. 5-June 1, 2010 (no class Mar. 16 and Mar. 23). Instructor: Lawrence Cheek

Nonfiction: An Introduction
Through lectures, reading assignments, discussions, and in-class activities, learn about and explore the richness of the major types of nonfiction writing, including journalism, magazines, personal essays, nonfiction books, and online publications. Gain knowledge of the fundamental skills and process needed to write nonfiction: how to find and build on ideas, interview people, conduct research, evaluate the reliability of evidence, and differentiate between news and feature leads. Then learn how to organize your material into accurate, focused writing. Knowledge gained in this part of the program provides the foundation for assignments completed in the writing seminar and portfolio part of the program.

Nonfiction: Writing Seminar and Portfolio
Build upon the skills and writing process introduced in the first part of the program, and gain new knowledge. 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. Marketing approaches will be discussed in terms of the respective goals of class members.

Each program location is limited to 20 students.