• The Creative Writing Programs

  •   Samplers and Workshops

    Samplers & Workshops

    We offer a variety of opportunities for interested students to participate in a chosen program before application. Sample a course and earn credit that may be applied to your degree, should you apply. Course sampling opportunities are easily accessible for those looking to get a feel for one our degree programs, to work with a specific professor or, as for many, just to dip a toe back into the classroom setting. Alumni and the greater Hamline community are welcome. View the options below.


    Summer Writing Workshop

    A week-long, intensive residential retreat for writers held on the beautiful campus of St. Olaf college in Northfield. Previous visiting writers have included Junot Diaz, Jean Valentine, Matthew Dickman and Michael Dickman, Robin Hemley, Patricia Smith, Michael Martone, Benjamin Percy, Mary Ruefle, and Ira Sukrungruang. The July 2012 Workshop featured: Lia Purpura in creative nonfiction, Bob Hicok in poetry and Nami Mun in fiction.

    Visiting faculty for July 2013:

    Marilyn Nelson  --  poetry
    Wells Tower  --  fiction
    Toi Derricotte  --  creative nonfiction   
    Emma Bull  --  fantasy  

    Click for more dates, cost, and registration information 

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    Sampler Courses

    Sampler Courses provide a great way to try out the program before applying. Credits will count toward degree completion, should you choose to apply.


    FALL TERM 2013 SAMPLER OFFERINGS:

    Hope and the Poetic Voice, taught by Julie Neraas
    Monday evenings, 6 - 9 p.m. September 9 - December 9
     

    Click for more information and registration 

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    Adult Special Status

    Adult special status allows students who are not seeking a degree to take graduate-level courses on a space-available basis. A short application process is required.
      

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    Auditing

    Interested students may audit our courses on a space-available basis. MFA writing courses are not available for audit. Students who audit a course will not receive academic credit, but will receive the designation "AU" on Hamline University transcripts. Those who audit participate in all classroom activities, projects, and assignments but will not receive any evaluation of their work.

    Tuition cost for auditors is $500 for a four-credit course. Contact 651-523-2047 for more information.

    Audit registration form available for download from Registration & Records.

     

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  • On Exploring Genres

    "I'm a poet, but through the program I began writing essays for the first time and had one published in the Minneapolis Star Tribune. I've definitely been pushed out of my comfort zone, but that's what you want. If I wanted to stay within my comfort zone, I could have stayed home."

    -- Norita Dittberner-Jax, current student 

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