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15 Top Writing Classes in Los Angeles

By Katrina Kwan

Are you a writer based in LA ?

Are you thinking about taking a writing workshop to help develop your skills?

Below we’ve featured 15 top writing classes in Los Angeles.

1. First-Draft Incubator 2.0 with Nicole Criona (LA Writers Group)

The Los Angeles Writers Group (LAWG) was founded in 2003 by Nicole Criona and Sanora Bartels with the express aim to provide writers with a community of support and feedback along their creative writing journey. LAWG offers several writing workshops, as well as private and group coaching for more intensive, personalized training. The team at LAWG offers both in-person and online workshops to help their writers learn and grow, regardless of location or time restrictions.

Their workshop, First-Drive Incubator 2.0 , is led by Nicole Criona, who has over 15 years of experience assisting writers on novels, screenplays, short stories, poetry, essays, and memoirs. As a specialist in developmental editing and author coaching, Nicole is also a fellow writer and veteran of the publishing industry. This course that she offers includes 2 hours per month of private coaching, two monthly online meetings on the 2 nd and 4 th Tuesday of every month, a 10% discount on private coaching, and a 20% discount on other workshops, retreats, and online writing challenges.

First-Draft Incubator 2.0 can help you set reasonable goals, finish your book, learn tools of the trade to assist with outlining, writing scenes, character development, and so much more. For those interested, but require no coaching, the class costs $255 monthly. For existing students or former coaching clients, the course costs $195 per month. If you’re a writer who’s interested in taking the online courses only, it costs $125 per month. For more information, you can contact the team at LAWG via email or call (323) 963-3180 during regular business hours.

2. Making a Scene with Elizabeth L. Silver (Writing Workshops Los Angeles)

Writing Workshops Los Angeles (WWLA) is undoubtedly a leading authority when it comes to helping writers broaden their horizons and sharpen their creative writing skills. Originally founded by Edan Lepucki, they offer a multitude of different classes from fiction writing, nonfiction writing, poetry workshops, and more. WWLA’s talented faculty have published titles like “The Education of Margot Sanchez” by Lilliam Rivera, “Grace and the Fever” by Zan Romanoff, and Neon Green” by Margaret Wappler.

They are currently offering a memoir writing workshop called Making a Scene: How to Craft the Most Powerful Scene in Your Memoir . This class is being taught by Elizabeth L. Silver, the author of memoir “The Tincture of Time: A Parent’s Memoir of (Medical) Uncertainty.” The class takes place on March 30 th , 2019 from 10:00am to 2:00pm. This class will help any aspiring memoirist to focus writing on important, high-impact scenes to really help bring your memories to life.

Enrollment to this class is limited to eight students only, so if you’re interested in taking part, be sure to sign up as soon as possible. Class enrollment for new students is $130, and only $120 for returning students of the WWLA. This particular writing class will be hosted in Encino, about a 25-minute drive from downtown LA. Light snacks, coffee, and sparkling water will be provided. For more information, you can contact the team at WWLA via email .

3. Short Story Writing Workshop with Abigail Ulman (Writing Pad)

Writing Pad was founded by writers Marilyn Friedman and Jeff Bernstein in the hopes of helping writers gain the most of their writing experience. With several locations throughout Los Angeles, Writing Pad offers an assortment of different classes for different kinds of writers. Whether you’re interested in nonfiction writing, creative fiction, screenwriting, or TV writing, Writing Pad definitely has a class to offer you.

They are currently offering Short Story 1 , a short story writing workshop taught by Abigail Ulman. Abigail is the author of “Hot Little Hands,” and was recently a Wallace Stegner Fellow in Fiction at Stanford University. In this class, she hopes to help you with the essential elements of fiction writing, including productive outlining, plot mapping, character, plot, change, and point out mistakes that are all too common amongst inexperienced writers.

Short Story 1 is a 5-week program being hosted May 22 nd , May 29 th , Jun 5 th , June 12 th , and June 19 th from 7:30pm to 10:30pm at Writing Pad’s LA-East location. There are only four spots left, so it’s imperative that you sign up quickly before space runs out! The cost for this extensive 5-week course is $425 per person. One of the great things about Writing Pad is they also accept course payments in installments! For more information, you can contact the team at Writing Pad either via email or call (213) 325-6910.

4. Write Fiction Like A Pro with Steve Alcorn (LA County Library)

The LA County Library is a great resource for aspiring authors looking to get a leg-up in their writing careers. The LA County Library offers free writing classes through Gale Courses, so if you’re a library card holder, this is definitely a service you should try and take advantage of! Gale Courses currently offers several creative writing classes, including Writing Fiction Like A Pro with Steve Alcorn.

Steve Alcorn is a published author of both fiction and nonfiction. Over the past 10 years, he has helped more than 300,000 students develop their ideas into full stories. Many of his former students have even gone on to write and publish their own novels. He has written titles like “A Matter of Justice,” “Everything in Its Path” and the children’s storybook, “Molly Builds a Theme Park.”

Write Fiction Like A Pro will go over story structure, dramatic elements, the development of character, story ideas, outlining, plotting, and more. This is a six-week program that has several different starting dates: March 13 th , April 17 th , May 15 th , and June 12 th . There are no requirements to enter this program, although you should at least have a working PC or Mac device you can use with an up-to-date writing software. As mentioned before, this course is free to all LA County Library patrons, so be sure to enroll now !

5. Six-Week Writing Workshop with Jonathan Blum

Jonathan Blum is the author of “Last Word” and “The Usual Uncertainties.” After having graduated from UCLA and the Iowa Writers’ Workshop, Jonathan resettled in Los Angeles and now offers an assortment of writing classes. He is currently offering a six-week long fiction writing workshop with a limited class size of 10 students. In this course, he helps his students workshop short stories and novel excerpts up to 20 pages to help in structure, characterization, and language.

This course runs twice a year, once in the spring between March 31 st to May 5 th , and once in the fall between September 22 nd to October 27 th . All classes take place on Sundays between 5:00pm to 7:00pm. The course fee is $575 per person. Alternatively, Jonathan offers a two-month intensive workshop for writers that not only assists with a 20-page story workshop, but case studies of select published fiction. This course goes for $720 per person, and the class is again limited to 10 students. For more information, you can contact Jonathan directly through his website’s online contact form .

6. WriteGirl Writing Workshops by WriteGirl

WriteGirl is a program honored by First Lady Michelle Obama and the National Arts and Humanities Youth Program Award. This fantastic program offers young girls the opportunity to explore the realm of creative writing and hopefully nurture their imagination and self-confidence. This Los Angeles-based organization offers dozens of writing workshops, panel discussions, and special events. Their up coming panel, Lights, America, WriteGirl! features speakers like Lauren Graham, Seth Rogan, Stephanie Katherine Grant, and Keiko Agena.

WriteGirl offers writing workshops from September all the way through June to cover topics about poetry, songwriting, journalism, screenwriting, creative nonfiction, and fiction. They just recently wrapped up their Character & Dialogue Workshop at the Linwood Dunn Theater at The Academy, Hollywood. For a full list of their upcoming events, click here . If you’re a young writer interested in this program, simply contact the team at WriteGirl via email or call (213) 253-2655 to see about getting involved.

7. Creative Writing Workshop by Writopia Lab

Writopia Lab is another great resource for young writers hoping to develop their writing skills. Writopia Lab offers a wide range of writing classes in the hopes of promoting literacy and critical thinking in children and teens. They currently offer half-day creative writing workshops in the Los Angeles Metro area. They offer creative writing workshops, classes for screenwriting, memoirs, narrative therapy, language play, graphic novels, and so much more!

You’re strongly encouraged to check out their class availability to check out the time, date, and age group for each class. Fees for half-day writing classes start at $595 per attendant. They also offer full-day writing camps during summer break and school-year breaks, with fees starting at $880 for one whole week. For more information, you can contact the team at Writopia Lab via email or call (323) 761-0453.

8. The Veterans Writing Project by The Writers Guild Foundation

The Writers Guild Foundation offers a unique writing class intended specifically for veterans. Their Veterans Writing Project helps individuals with military backgrounds to nurture and develop a passion for writing that can help them transition from their life of service. This is a year-long project that offers a weekend-long writing retreat, and a monthly follow-up with workshops and other special events.

The program’s application window to apply for the 2019-2020 year is now closed, but you’re strongly encouraged to subscribe to the Writer Guild Foundation’s email list to receive updates and to learn when the application window reopens. This program is completely free and accepts up to 50 veterans every year to participate. For more information, you can contact the Writers Guild Foundation via email or call (323) 782-4692.

9. Professional Screenwriting and Television Writing Workshop with Corey Mandell

Fiction and nonfiction writing aren’t the only avenues authors can explore when it comes to their literary creativity. Corey Mandell is an award-winning playwright and screenwriter who has worked on projects with Ridley Scott, Harrison Ford, Meg Ryan, Julia Roberts, John Travolta, the Warner Brothers, Universal, 20 th Century Fox, Walt Disney Pictures, and more! He offers both author coaching and script consultations to interested writers.

Corey currently offers a Professional Screenwriting and Television Writing workshop for writers living in Los Angeles. His class is also offered through multi-video conference technology, so it’s actually available to students around the world. The class costs $595 per person and spans a total of 8 weeks. The course goes over narrative intensity, organic escalations, clarity, efficiency, high-impact pacing, and more. For more information, you can contact Corey directly via email .

10. Sketch Level 1 Intensive: Intro to Sketch Writing with Anna Cecilia

The best comedians know that the best rib-ticklers come about thanks to a great sense of improvisation and a keen storytelling ability. The Improve Space is a Los Angeles-based performance school that offers a wide range of workshops to help comedy writers focus on building industry relationships, help with character development, and storytelling skills. This non-profit organization is located near UCLA and offers a safe place for actors and writers alike to nurture their imagination.

They have a long list of classes that are coming soon, including Sketch Level 1 Intensive: Intro to Sketch Writing led by Anna Cecilia. Anna herself is a sketch comedy writer, performer, and director who graduated from Harvard University. The class itself offers four intensive classes and a table read to showcase your brilliant work. Enrollment is now open, and only costs $199 per person. If you’re interested in this class, you can contact The Improv Space through their website’s online contact form to apply or request more information.

11. UCLA Extension Writer’s Program

The University of California Los Angeles’ Extension offers a fantastic writer’s program for those determined to refine their skills and prepare for a long and successful career in the industry. Widely regarded as one of the best writing programs Los Angeles has to offer, UCLA Extension offers classes for the basics of writing, fiction (for beginner, intermediate, and advanced writers), creative nonfiction (for beginner, intermediate, and advanced writers), writing for young readers, poetry, and editing and publishing courses. They also offer classes for screenwriting (both TV and film).

They are currently offering a Master Class in Novel Writing taught by Alyx Dellamonica, author of the award-winning “The Town on Blighted Sea.” This class is just one of many that you can apply for, and has a registration fee of $3860 payable upon program acceptance. It is a 30 week master-level course limited to 8 students only. Not only does it include a guaranteed entry into the James Kirkwood Literary Awards competition, but your work during the course will be considered by a literary agent upon course completion.

There are several ways to enroll into the Writer’s Program, the primary methods being either online , by phone (call 1-800-825-9971), or in person (visit the UCLA Extension Temporary Registration Office on the 1 st floor at Gayley Center at 1145 Gayley Avenue). An estimated breakdown for the program’s tuition comes to roughly $5400. You’re strongly encouraged to check out the program’s information section here .

12. One Person Show Workshop with Anne Marie Scheffler (The Second City)

The Second City is an organization that was founded in 1959 by Bernie Sahlins, Howard Alk, and Paul Sills with the aim to make big waves in the entertainment industry. Among other things, Second City offers writing workshops at their Hollywood location like their Satirical Writing Intensive and their One Person Show Workshop , currently led by Anne Marie Scheffler.

Anne Marie Scheffler is a critically acclaimed solo performer who has won several credits and awards for her writing and acting. Through this workshop, she hopes to help you take advantage of your unique voice and put it to work. One Person Show Workshop 1 is offered in a 2-day intensive starting at $200, or a 5-day course with a 1-day showcase performance for $585. Classes are available between April 8 th to April 12 th , Monday to Friday from 11:00am to 4:00pm. If you’re interested in this writing class, you can enroll here .

13. Master Class with Alan Watt (LA Writer’s Lab)

The LA Writer’s Lab was founded by Alan Watt, the author of “The 90-Day Novel” and “The 90-Day Screenplay.” Alan founded LA Writer’s Lab back in 2002 to provide a place for writers to better develop their craft and ability to tell a story. Alan himself has worked as the writer and director of the award-winning film Interior Night , so he definitely can teach aspiring writers a thing or two about how to apply their skills to their unique stories.

Alan is currently offering a Master Class in writing intended for writers hoping to complete their projects for publication or production. The class takes place over 12 weeks and costs a total of $1150 ($575 upon registration, and $575 upon the 5 th class). This class is limited to 8 students per semester and takes place on Saturdays between 10:15am to 1:15PM. Due to the small class sizes, you’re strongly encouraged to register as soon as possible to reserve your spot.

14. Organizing Your Writing with Scrivener by Neelanjana Banerjee (Writing Workshops LA)

Writing your story is one thing, but learning how to organize your ideas effectively is another. WWLA offers a class called Organizing Your Writing with Scrivener , hosted by Neelanjana Banerjee. The class takes place April 6 th and April 20 th between 11:00am to 1:00pm. The best part? It takes place online! For writers based in Los Angeles, or anywhere beyond, this means you can take part in a memorable and helpful learning experience regardless of your location.

Neelanjana is a successful author of short stories, poetry, and essays, which have been featured in Prairie Schooner, PANK, The Liner, and World Literature Today . Through this class, she hopes to help authors through their drafting stages and to help organize their notes through the well-known and industry-wide used tool Scrivener. The class is limited to 8 students only and costs $130 for new students, $120 for returning WWLA students. For more information, you can contact the team at WWLA via email .

15. Memorable Memoir Workshop with Wendy Lawless (Writing Pad)

Another fantastic class offered by Writing Pad includes Memorable Memoir Workshop with Wendy Lawless. The class takes place for seven Saturdays (June 1 st , June 8 th , June 15 th , June 22 nd , July 13 th , July 20 th , and July 27 th ) between 11:00am to 1:00pm. There are only two spots left in this course, so be sure to apply if you’re interested! The class itself costs $425 per person.

Wendy Lawless is a two-time New York Times bestselling author who specializes in memoirs. She’s written “Chanel Bonfire” and “Heart of Glass,” both critically acclaimed memoirs! Through this class, Wendy hopes to teach her students about how to craft an emotional journey that’s both vivid in detail and compelling for your readers. You can even bring in up to 1200 words to every other class to receive helpful feedback from both Wendy and your classmates. For more information, you can call the team at Writing Pad at (213) 325-6910 or send them an email .

Are you aware of any other writing classes in Los Angeles? Please tell us about them in the comments box below!

K. Z. Kwan is a freelance writer based out of Halifax, Canada.

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Writers Studio

Welcome to the writers studio.

Offered by the UCLA Extension Writers’ Program, the Writers Studio brings together a community of writing students to workshop with some of Southern California’s most accomplished writers and teachers.

Perfect for aspiring writers who have never taken a workshop, or experienced writers looking for new inspiration, the Writers Studio will spark new ideas, new energy, and a commitment to writing that lasts.

Jumpstart your creativity and fast-forward your screenwriting and creative writing skills. Choose from one of 9 workshops taught by professionals in the fields of feature film, television, fiction, and creative nonfiction writing.

Enjoy the following:

• Opening reception with Continental breakfast
• Prompts & exercises that launch new work
• Daily guest speakers from the field
• Each class is limited to15 students
• A special book sale on Saturday
• Coffee and light snacks throughout the Studio

Workshop Dates Thursday–Sunday, August 1 - 4, 2024

Daily Schedule 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (PDT)

Location Westwood Village

Save Your Seat!

To Register: Select one workshop below. Enroll via the course page for your selected workshop.

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Space is limited. Early enrollment strongly encouraged.

The Writers Studio fee of $985 includes: 

• Registration in one four-day workshop of your choice
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• Opening and Closing Reception

A 10% discount is available for WP NOW members . 

Enrollment is on a first-come, first-served basis and each class is limited to 15 students.

Each workshop can be taken for three units of credit that may be applied to a Writers’ Program certificate.

To register, enroll via the course page of your selected workshop.

Guest speakers daily. Lunch times may change slightly depending on the speaker's visit.

What you can expect:

Learn from Real Writers

Writers Studio workshops are led by top Writers’ Program instructors, all of whom are successful writers with flourishing careers. Under their guidance, advice, encouragement, and support, students learn essential writing techniques and develop habits that can be sustained over a lifetime of writing.

“I now feel so confident in the flow of my pilot and the way forward to structure all stories. I have taken MANY classes; this class really just sank it for me.”  – Lindiwe Suttle Mueller, Berlin, Germany

A Supportive Community

The Writers Studio attracts participants from around the country who are passionate about honing their craft. For many students, friendships that develop at the Writers Studio continue long after class ends.

“The Writers Studio is a safe and exciting place to share and write with professionals that truly have worked on the craft of writing."  –Beth Marshdoyle, Boston MA

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Each instructor hosts daily guest speakers during the Writers Studio. These working professionals round out your course with practical advice for building a thriving writing life and effective tips for building a successful career.

“I recommend Writer's Studio because, as far as I know, there is no other place where you can direct connect with industry professionals that want to share their expertise with you.”  – Karen Nussbaumer, South Salem, New York

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The Writers Studio is held at UCLA Extension in  Westwood Village , a vibrant, unique community in West Los Angeles.

On a typical day, you can find college students, professionals, residents, and tourists wandering Westwood's collection of stores, restaurants, and theaters. The weekends attract Angelenos from across the city for dining or entertainment.

Westwood Village is conveniently located near other well-known Los Angeles neighborhoods and cities including Bel Air, Brentwood, Beverly Hills, West Hollywood and Santa Monica. 

“It's amazing how well and how much the Writers Studio teaches you in just four days. In the time-crunched world, it feels like a fresh breath of air.” –  Bridgette Ramirez, West Covina, California

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“I recommend the Writers Studio because it gives unparalleled access to professional guidance.”  – Davy Giorgi, Vancouver, BC, Canada

I’ve enrolled in a Writers Studio workshop but would like to transfer to another section. Is that possible?

You can transfer your enrollment by emailing the UCLA Extension Registration Office at [email protected] or by calling them at (310) 825-9971, provided that spaces are available in the workshop in which you’d like to enroll. Please note that there is a transfer fee of $120. Once you transfer your enrollment, you will receive an email confirmation, and we will also email you the course welcome letter and syllabus.

I enrolled in a Writers Studio workshop but am unable to attend. How do I request a refund?

Refund requests must be received no later than Monday, July 1, 2024.  There is a $150 service charge for Studio refunds. To request a refund, call (310) 825-9971, or email [email protected] .

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8 Best Creative Writing Classes in Los Angeles

Showing 8 courses that match your search.

TV Structure for Pilot Writing

Writing Pad

In this one-day structure clinic, successful TV writer Farhan Arshad (Co-EP, FRASIER, UPLOAD, 3 Pilots) will help you apply the toolset of the scribe to root your story in a clearly defined genre, give it a rock-solid spine and compelling arcs that launch your pilot firmly into series.

Website: https://writingpad.com/classes/online-tv-structure-for-pi...

Categories: Fiction and Screenplay

Start date:

Prerequisites: No prerequisites

If you’re a self starter who’s looking for all the tools to hit the ground running or if you’re a newbie who wants to get an overview of what novel writing is all about, this is the class for you. Topics include: character, description, and dialogue.

Website: https://writingpad.com/classes/online-novel-101-class-gre...

Categories: Copywriting and Content

Open all year round

In this one-day structure clinic, TV writer Alicia Carroll will help you apply the toolset of the scribe to root your story in a clearly defined genre, give it a rock-solid spine and compelling arcs that launch your pilot firmly into series.

Website: https://writingpad.com/classes/?genre=TV%20Writing

How to Write a Novel

Your story matters. Unlock your potential with daily video lessons from bestselling ghostwriter Tom Bromley, and finish your first draft in just 3 months. Learn more →

Short Story I

This course provides a foundational journey into the art of short fiction, focusing on core storytelling elements such as plot, perspective, setting, and character development. Participants will engage in various exercises and assignments to develop their story ideas, with the goal of drafting and revising a short story. Suitable for aspiring writers, the course is offered both in-person and online, spanning 10 weeks with a limited enrollment to ensure personalized guidance​​​​​​​​​​.

Website: https://www.uclaextension.edu/writing-journalism/creative...

Categories: Short Story

The 90-day Screenplay Workshop

L.A Writers' Lab

Alan Watt's 90-Day Screenplay workshop is a live Zoom course that takes you from concept to finished screenplay in 90 days. The 14-week workshop includes craft lessons, film clips, and writing exercises. Daily guidance letters and optional one-on-one story consultations (at an additional cost) are also offered​​​​​​​​​​.

Website: https://lawriterslab.com/online-writing-classes/90-day-sc...

Categories: Screenplay

The 90-day Memoir Writing Workshop

Taught by Alan Watt, this live Zoom workshop takes you from the initial idea to the completion of your memoir's first draft in 90 days. Meetings occur weekly on Thursdays for 14 weeks, combining craft lessons and writing exercises. Participants are expected to make a financial commitment, with a suggested donation of $1,500 and a minimum of $750.

Website: https://lawriterslab.com/online-writing-classes/90-day-me...

Categories: Memoir

The 90-day Novel Writing Workshop

This engaging 90-day live Zoom workshop, led by Alan Watt, guides you from the initial idea to the first draft of your novel. Meeting weekly for 14 weeks, it combines craft lessons with writing exercises. Daily letters provide further guidance, and recorded sessions are available for three weeks​​​​​​​​​​​​.

Website: https://lawriterslab.com/online-writing-classes/90-day-no...

Categories: Book

Creative Writing Workshop - All Genre

LA Writers Group

Engage in our weekly generative creative writing workshops, open to writers of all genres and skill levels. These workshops are hands-on, focusing directly on writing, with prompts inspired by various themes, educational aspects, craftsmanship, or creative exploration.

Website: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/creative-writing-workshop-al...

Categories: Fiction, Essay, Poetry, Nonfiction, Short Story, and Book

So you’re looking for creative writing classes in Los Angeles

Los Angeles isn’t just a Hollywood sign. It’s also a city brimming with stories, from shows for the silver screen to the books that we read on paper on the subway. As author Mike Sonksen once said, “The world is a suburb of Los Angeles”—so if you’re trying to sharpen your storytelling skills, you can’t go wrong by taking a creative writing class in Los Angeles.

This directory of the best writing courses in Los Angeles is meant to help you locate the right one for yourself.  We’ve included filters for price and genre so that you can quickly sort through the writing classes. And before you commit to any one writing class, consider the following questions:

• Who is the instructor?
• What is the price of the writing course?
• How far away is the writing course in Los Angeles? Is there a remote alternative?
• How long could the course last?

Got any questions about finding the right writing class in Los Angeles for you? Feel free to reach out to us at [email protected] . Good luck!

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FICTION-WRITING CLASSES

Jonathan Blum’s fiction-writing workshops are among the best in L.A. according to  “ 15 Top Writing Classes in Los Angeles ” by Katrina Kwan of Writing Tips Oasis.

Welcome, writer. I offer workshops in Downtown Los Angeles as well as on Zoom. I have been teaching fiction writing in L.A. since 2015. My students have gone on to attend an array of MFA programs and to publish widely. You may enroll in any of my classes by scrolling down to the pay option and following the steps.

Please feel free to contact me with questions.

Classes are refundable up until 10 days before the class starts.

Students must be at least 18 years old.

Upcoming Courses

• Six-Week Workshop on Zoom (Saturdays, November 9 - December 14)
• Six-Week Workshop in Downtown L.A. (Saturdays, September 14 - October 19)
• Two-Month Advanced Workshop  in Downtown L.A. (Every other Saturday, July 6 - August 31)
• Two-Month Advanced Workshop  on Zoom (Every other Sunday, June 30 - August 25)

“ After a decade of writer’s block, I enrolled in Jonathan’s online workshop. Jonathan creates a supportive and thoughtful environment for the study of craft. He encouraged me to take risks as a writer and think deeply about stories in ways that I could never have imagined. His classes are truly life-altering. With Jonathan’s guidance, I applied to a number of top-notch MFA programs, and I’m thrilled that I’ll be attending Warren Wilson in the spring. I couldn’t have done it without him.”

Jaime Goodrich, 2020 and 2022 student

“ This is the best writing class in Los Angeles. Getting to attend Jonathan’s fiction writing workshop is like having the Iowa Writers’ Workshop come to you. Jonathan’s rare, thoughtful approach and innate brilliance will change you as a writer. Already I have had a short story turned into a draft of a novel and another short story published. Jonathan has helped me move my work to the next level.”

Arabella Field, 2017, 2018, and 2020 student

“ I recently finished a writing class with Jonathan, and it’s the best writing class I’ve ever taken. He is supportive and his classes attract talented writers, so you end up being surrounded by and getting feedback from not only Jonathan but a group of gifted writers. The class was an inspiring treat.”

Faiza Ambah, 2019 student

Segment: openings.

"I have taken many, many fiction writing classes, and Jonathan is one of the best instructors I’ve had. His knowledge of craft runs deep, and he is honest yet supportive. I highly recommend his class.”

Rachel Vogel

"Jonathan Blum is an amazing instructor. He really knows his stuff. I was a first-timer — never had I written any fiction. I genuinely enjoyed every class session. Writing is an art form and I am a much better artist because of this class and Jonathan.”

Heidy Garcia

“Jonathan’s workshop was a game-changer for me. I had long been rejecting the techniques and habits of Screenwriting 101, and his class presented me with a more honest, organic approach to storytelling. He had plenty of expert knowledge to share with us week to week, but the core of his class was in guiding each of us to find our own way as writers. It was incredibly empowering, and I only wish I’d found him sooner.”

SIX-WEEK WORKSHOP

Course description.

• Open to writers of all experience levels, including beginners. Class size limited to 10.
• We’ll start by discussing how fiction works, what makes for a good opening, and how to create and develop characters.
• Each member of the class will draft a short story or novel excerpt of up to 20 pages, to be workshopped by the group.
• You will read and discuss published short stories and do weekly writing exercises, designed to sharpen your fiction writing skills and generate new work.
• Throughout the course, you will study how to structure a story, imbue your writing with meaning, improve your use of language, and revise drafts.
• ONLINE WORKSHOP
• IN-PERSON WORKSHOP

TWO-MONTH ADVANCED WORKSHOP

• In this course, called Revision Workshop, you will study how to revise your own works of fiction.
• Our text will be a course reader I have created. The reader contains published short stories along with earlier drafts of these stories, as well as interviews and essays on revision.
• Throughout the course, you will do at-home exercises where you explore components of revision--characterization, use of setting, weaving in of history, etc. You will then share and discuss these exercises in class.
• Each writer will be able to workshop up to 30 pages of fiction. 
• The class is open to committed, experienced writers. Class size limited to 10.
• A writing sample may be requested for entry into this workshop.

Discover student success stories from real students:

Manuscript services.

I read fiction manuscripts, from short stories to novels. I am thorough about it too. I will closely read your work, send you a detailed written response, and talk with you on the phone about the work. The fee is 5 cents/word with a minimum charge of $200. Let me know if I can help.

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summer workshops

Join the 80,000+ writers who have taken the 90-day journey!

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Begins june 10th.

Join the thousands of writers who have taken the 90-day novel workshop. I will guide you from initial idea to the completion of your first draft in 90 days. Live-on-Zoom .

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Begins june 13th.

In this workshop I will guide you from initial idea to the completion of your polished screenplay in 90 days. Live-on-Zoom .

This 1-day event is for storytellers in all mediums who want to deepen their understanding of story structure and leave with an outline on the same day. Live-on-Zoom .

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CREATIVE WRITING WORKSHOP

This workshop is designed for those with little or no experience in creative writing but eager to give it a try! During our four weeks together, we’ll fully immerse ourselves in the art and craft of creative writing, working collaboratively and doing activities designed to ignite our imaginations. Each week will offer the opportunity to experiment with four genres: the personal essay (also known as the “college application essay”), creative nonfiction, flash fiction, and the short story, respectively. In the process, we’ll learn about the literary techniques of accomplished writers, learn to “read like a writer” and “write like a reader,” and even take a field trip or two to find our inspiration in the city of Los Angeles. You’ll also receive constructive feedback from peers and your instructors to help you to discover your own writing voice. Let’s write!

PROGRAM DATES June 16 – July 13, 2024

PREREQUISITES None

RECOMMENDED International students who are non-native English speakers need meet the program’s English Requirement

DAILY SCHEDULE & ACTIVITIES MONDAY – FRIDAY 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Classes in session 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. Lunch 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Classes in session

COURSE OVERVIEW

• Produce a portfolio of your own work, including a polished personal essay suitable for college applications
• Meet other writers and share your work in a collaborative workshop environment
• Learn the benefits of revision and see the evolution of your writing
• Take creativity-inspiring field trips to artistic venues in L.A.
• Gain skills and craft approaches you can carry into your future writing life

Topic of Study

• Personal essay
• Creative nonfiction
• Flash fiction
• Short story
• Literary techniques of accomplished authors

HEAR FROM OUR FORMER STUDENTS

Writing Workshops Los Angeles

Your Custom Text Here

Writing Workshops Los Angeles offers courses and one-on-one instruction to those interested in honing their fiction, nonfiction, and poetry writing skills. Workshops are held in the home of the course instructor or, occasionally, in the home of one of the students. In our classes, work is discussed from a craft perspective, and we delve deeply into story, character, language, structure, and other techniques. Classes are small and always fun, and there are refreshments (wine, sparkling water, coffee), and sometimes even gourmet cheeses and tasty snacks, to keep us going. You can read more about WWLA in this interview with Edan at LitHub .

At Writing Workshops Los Angeles, we value aesthetic daring, and we strive to read student manuscripts with both the highest standards and an open mind. Our students have gone on to attend MFA programs across the country, published novels and memoirs, placed their work in a variety of literary journals and magazines, and won numerous awards and fellowships.

Chris Daley , Director Edan Lepucki , Founder

How do I enroll for a course? All workshops and seminars are listed here . Once you’ve picked a class, please visit the Enroll page, scroll to the listing for your course, and pay via PayPal. (A returning student is defined as someone who has completed a WWLA class previously.) We reserve the right to decide not to accept an enrollment for any reason. After your payment has been received, all course information—including class location and the first assignment—will be emailed to you. If a class is listed as sold out, you can always contact us to inquire about a waitlist at [email protected] .

What’s your enrollment and payment policy? With a few exceptions, all Los Angeles workshops range in price from $380 to $550. In-person seminars range from $90 to $190, depending on length, and online classes vary from $120 to $315. All courses, as well as our ten-session coaching package, require a $100 non-refundable enrollment fee, which is included in the course fee. Seminars require a $50 enrollment fee, which is included in the seminar fee. If you decide to drop a course within five days of the class start date (or the first coaching session), all but the enrollment fee will be returned to you. After the five-day grace period, there are no refunds, and you’re required to pay the full course fee no matter how many class meetings you attend. If you have pre-paid for coaching or critique services, you have one year to schedule the services before the payment expires. If you drop a course after the grace period, and you’ve chosen to pay in multiple installments, you are still responsible to pay the remaining course balance. If you have enrolled in a seminar, you have up to two days before the seminar begins to drop it and receive a refund (minus the enrollment fee).  After that deadline, you will not be eligible for a refund.

I don’t see any new classes. What’s going on? Will there be more? How can I be among the first to know about new classes? Yes! Don’t worry! We offer classes four times a year (usually beginning in February, April, July, and October), and the next session is announced at least a month before it begins. You can sign up for our newsletter  here , so that you hear of new classes as soon as they’re announced.  

What are your online classes like? We use the Zoom platform and our online classes are just like our Los Angeles classes, except instead of meeting in someone's living room, we come to you. There is a maximum of eight students and the classes still meet once a week for two hours (or standard seminar hours). To join the class, you'll only need to click on a URL we will send to you before the class begins and your fellow classmates and instructor will appear Brady Bunch opening credits style. Easy!

How do I know whether I should take a Level I or Level II class? What is a mixed levels class and should I take one? Students self-select which level class they feel is appropriate for them, so you are free to decide where you would feel most comfortable. In general, our Level I classes are for beginners to that genre, although sometimes more experienced writers will take a Level I class to brush up on the basics or come back after a break from writing. Enrollment in a Level I class is suggested before taking a Level II class, but it is not required. If you've taken writing classes before (with WWLA or elsewhere) and feel like you would benefit from a more intermediate class, then a Level II class might be for you.  Mixed levels classes are appropriate for both beginner and intermediate students. The instructors who teach our mixed levels workshops are skilled at customizing the curriculum to meet the needs of all the students in the class, regardless of level. Especially if you're looking for a workshop on the westside or the weekend, a mixed levels workshop could be perfect for you.

Keep in mind that a class like Tools for Writing Fiction is generally for beginners who are not yet decided on whether they would like to write short stories or a novel (or some other fiction form). The Art of the Short Story and Novel I are designed for students who wish to work on short stories or who are in the early stages of a novel project. Novel II is generally for writers who have taken Novel I and have advanced further into their projects. Mixed levels classes are customized for both level I and II students. If you prefer a class on the westside or on young adult fiction, we have those options as well. One- and two-day seminars look more closely at particular fiction techniques or explore craft questions. Introduction to Nonfiction Genres is generally for beginners who are interested in exploring personal narrative (memoir in short or long form) and/or non-personal narrative (creative nonfiction, journalism, art criticism, science writing, etc.). Nonfiction II is designed for writers who have taken Nonfiction I and would like to keep the freedom to write either form of narrative. Memoir I is for students who have decided they wish to write personal narrative (memoir or personal essay). Memoir II is generally for writers who have taken Memoir I and are in the early stages of a project (a memoir or collection of personal essays). Mixed levels classes like Writing Your Memoir are customized for both level I and II students. Essay Writing is designed to produce inquisitive essays in which the primary focus is not personal experience.

What are your payment plan options? Effective summer 2013, new students must pay for all courses in full. For almost all courses, we offer returning  students the opportunity to pay in either one, two, or three installments. In Payment Plan 1, students pay half up front and half in week five. In Payment Plan 2, students pay a third up front, a third in week two, and a third in week five. All of the plans include a $100 non-refundable enrollment fee for courses (it’s a $50 fee for seminars). The deadlines and amounts for Payment Plans 1 and 2 are emailed to students upon enrollment. Please note:  We offer payment plans to returning students as a courtesy to say thank you for choosing WWLA again. However, if a student does not make a payment by the stated deadline (see info packet) and ignores our first reminder, s/he will be required to pay in full to enroll for future classes.

What is your privacy policy? Writing Workshops Los Angeles is committed to respecting your privacy. We do not and will never sell or rent your mailing address, email address, or any other data that can personally identify you in any way to an outside group. Writing Workshops Los Angeles allows students to enroll for courses through our website. To pay for the class online, you must provide your credit card information. Writing Workshops Los Angeles does not store this information, and we will never share it with a third party. Your email address will only be shared with the course instructor once you've enrolled.

It looks like I’m too late to sign up for a class this session.  Can I enter a class after it’s begun? In most cases, we don’t admit students into a course that’s already begun. However, we do offer one-on-one consultations  with our faculty if you don't want to wait until the next term starts.

What if I have allergies and the instructor has pets? Our classes primarily take place in the homes of instructors, many of whom have pets. If you suffer from allergies, please contact us at [email protected] before you enroll in a class to determine the pet situation. We can suggest alternate, comparable pet-free classes, and if those options do not work with your schedule, please know that classes often switch days and instructors from term to term, so you'll have another chance at a pet-free class in about ten weeks.

Do you offer classes for teenagers? Unfortunately, our classes are mostly for students over the age of twenty. However, we occasionally make an exception, dependent upon the teacher, the student, and the class in question. To see if your case is exceptional, please email us at [email protected] .

Do you offer editorial services? Yes! Please refer to our Critique & Coaching page.

Are you hiring new instructors? We're not hiring at the moment, but you're welcome to send your CV/resume to [email protected] . Please include the neighborhood where you live and information on any pets you may have.

Do you need student hosts for your classes? We do everything we can to ensure our classes are held in our instructors' homes, but occasionally, we may need a student host who, in return for their hospitality, takes the class for free. If you'd like to know more about this opportunity, please contact us at [email protected] .

How come you guys are so awesome? Do we really need to answer that?

Feel free to contact us at [email protected] . You can sign up for our newsletter to find out as soon as new classes are announced.

UCLA Writing Project 2024 Summer Camps for Students

We at the UCLA Writing Project are excited to announce our 2024 summer programs for students entering grades 5-12 in fall 2024. This year we are pleased to offer two sessions for you to choose from, the first on campus, the second virtual.

Our promise:  We’ll continue to give students exquisite attention, and they’ll experience pleasure and joy as they find the best words to capture their thoughts.

Just what will happen during the workshop activities for students enrolled in Crafting The Story – Grades 5-6 , Literary Adventures – Grades 7-8 , and College-Ready Writing – Grades 9-12 ? Simply put, students will grow dramatically as writers. They’ll expand their stylistic repertoires, focus on a particular genre—but try out several others.  They’ll draft short and long pieces and gain confidence as they develop their individual style.  By the end of the workshop time, students will think of themselves as writers—a big deal!

And what about the entering twelfth graders in the College Personal Essay workshop ? They meet for just 12 hours over a four-day period. And that’s the perfect amount of time for zeroing in on the challenging and exciting task at hand: showing in what ways their hard work has translated to insightful understandings and how their experiences have built character.

What else should you know?

Our teachers are all UCLA Writing Project fellows.  This means that they participated in our Invitational Writing Project , a leadership institute that gathers wonderful teachers of writing PK-University—to share their expertise through demonstration workshops, to refine their own writer’s craft, to pay good attention to social justice issues in schools and communities.  They are teachers who love to write and to guide young students to grow as thinkers, readers and writers.

More still:

• All classes will offer students appreciation, support, structure—and fun!
• The day will combine whole group class time, small group sharing with peers, individual writing time.
• Those classes scheduled to be virtual will have synchronous and asynchronous components.
• All students will also have time to interact with their teacher one-on-one.
• Students in the two-week workshops will craft an anthology of selected writing. They will also receive a certificate commending their participation.

We hope to see you this summer!

Faye Peitzman, Ph.D. UCLA Writing Project Director

Crafting the Story – Writing Workshop (Rising 5-6th Graders)

Ten-day workshop from 9AM-12PM for students entering 5th-6th grades. Welcome, young writers! Join us for an exciting time of writing, reading and collaborating with fellow students.

Be a Force of Nature: Reading and Writing about the Environment – Writing Workshop (Rising 7-8th Graders)

Ten-day writing workshop from 9am -12pm for students entering 7th-8th grades. Two sessions: in-person at UCLA or online.

College-Ready Writing: Personal and Academic, Both! (Rising 9-12th Graders)

Writing workshop from 9am-12pm for students entering grades 9-12. Learn how to organize, develop and refine your writing, and how to find your academic voice. Two sessions: in -person at UCLA or online.

Writing the College Application Personal Essay Workshop (Rising 12th Graders)

Four-day workshop for students entering grade 12. Try your hand at a variety of application topics, explore the role of style, and analyze sample personal statements.

Online Writing Workshop – Crafting the Story (Rising 5-6th Graders)

Online writing workshop – literary adventures (rising 7-8th graders), online college-ready writing: personal and academic, both (rising 9-12th graders).

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Nancy Lee Sayre , Program Manager

Faye Peitzman , Director

Upcoming Events for Teachers

Teaching writing to multilingual english learners – teaching narrative writing, improving student writing: lessons and strategies to aid in writing improvement throughout the year, teaching writing to multilingual english learners – teaching analytical writing—literary analysis, teaching writing to multilingual english learners – teaching argument writing: synthesizing multiple sources, summer events for students.

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Discover LA Newsletter

Writers' Workshop

Jayne anne phillips wins 2024 pulitzer prize for fiction.

Written by Sara Epstein Moninger

University of Iowa alumna Jayne Anne Phillips has won the 2024 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, and three other Iowa Writers' Workshop graduates were named finalists for Pulitzer literary awards, which were announced May 6.

Phillips, who earned an MFA in 1978, was recognized for her novel Night Watch . The Pulitzer judges described the book as “a beautifully rendered novel set in West Virginia’s Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum in the aftermath of the Civil War where a severely wounded Union veteran, a 12-year-old girl, and her mother, long abused by a Confederate soldier, struggle to heal.”

Yiyun Li, who graduated with a Master of Science in 2000 and two MFAs (fiction and nonfiction) in 2005, was a finalist in fiction for her book of short stories Wednesday’s Child . Li’s short stories and novels have won numerous awards, including the PEN/Hemingway Award for A Thousand Years of Good Prayers and the PEN/Faulkner Award for Fiction for The Book of Goose . She currently serves as director of Princeton University’s creative writing program.

Additionally, two alumnae were recognized as finalists for the 2024 Pulitzer Prize in Poetry:

Jorie Graham, who graduated with an MFA in 1978 and won a Pulitzer in 1996 for The Dream of the Unified Field , was named a finalist for To 2040 . Graham, one of the most celebrated poets of her generation, is a former longtime faculty member in the Iowa Writers’ Workshop. Among her poetry collections are The End of Beauty , Place , and Sea Change . She currently is the Boylston Professor of Oratory and Rhetoric at Harvard University.

Robyn Schiff, who graduated with an MFA in 1999, was named a finalist for Information Desk: An Epic , a book-length poem in three parts set in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Schiff, who has been a visiting faculty member in the UI Department of English, also is the author of Worth , Revolver , and A Woman of Property , which was a finalist for the Los Angeles Times Book Prize. She teaches at the University of Chicago and co-edits Canarium Books.

Pulitzer Prizes are awarded annually to honor achievements in journalism, literature, and music. See the full list of 2024 Pulitzer winners .

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