In addition to four core writing classes, students take four elective courses, three writing workshops, and a final project. Four elective courses are selected from graduate offerings in humanities, social sciences, writing or art. Students are required to take 6 credits in writing workshops.
Afternoons feature a special methods workshop for classroom teachers.
Writers' Weekend, scheduled in the fall, also provides the opportunity to do concentrated work in a particular genre. Students may substitute one Writers' Weekend for a Summer Writers' Week. With the exception of the intensive format of Summer Writer's Week, all required courses are scheduled in the evening. Elective courses are available in either the day or evening. There are two semesters each year, fall and spring, and new students may begin at either time.