About this Course
Writing in the memoir genre can be nuanced, intimate and revelatory creative work. When writers undertake this exploration with curiosity and courage, stories can become dynamic narratives of growth and change.
In this course, you’ll explore how memoir writing can be an act of empowerment and self-discovery; a chance to excavate, reframe and share what you’ve experienced with fresh clarity and insight. You’ll read, discuss and examine work from scores of writers who unfurl their memoirs in dynamic ways, including linear, nonlinear, lyric, thematic and braided approaches. You’ll also have opportunities to contribute to class discussions, create a revision toolkit, and collaborate on memoir reflection projects.
Designed For
Beginning and intermediate writers who want to write or explore writing a memoir.
See Requirements
Admission Requirements
This is an introductory course and no previous experience is required. Anyone is encouraged to enroll.
Time Commitment
Including time in class, you should expect to spend about seven to nine hours each week on coursework.
English Proficiency
If English is not your native language, you should have advanced English skills to enroll. To see if you qualify, make sure you are at the C1 level on the CEFR self-assessment grid. To learn more, see English Language Proficiency Requirements – Noncredit Programs.
International Students
Because this offering is 100% online, no visa is required and international students are welcome to apply. For more information, see Admission Requirements for International Students.
Technology Requirements
- Access to a computer with a recent operating system and web browser
- High-speed internet connection
- Headset and webcam (recommended)
Completing the Course
To successfully complete this course, you must fulfill the requirements outlined by your instructor.
Explore More
Interested in digging deeper into character? Consider taking our course on Fiction Writing: Character.
What You’ll Learn
- How to identify and utilize both the ‘narrator-I’ and the ‘character-I’ to amplify tension and stakes in your memoir
- Approaches to writing about yourself and others with nuance and complexity
- How revising can clarify your story and strengthen your narrative arc
- Ways to explore and experiment with multiple structures for your memoir
- How you can nurture both your creative and publishing goals and foster a writing community
Get Hands-On Experience
- Generate fresh material with in-class prompts to add depth to your writing
- Workshop and revise multiple excerpts from your memoir-in-progress
- Give and receive writing feedback in a group workshop setting
EARN A DIGITAL BADGE
After successfully completing this course, you can claim a digital achievement badge that can be shared on LinkedIn and other social media sites. Learn more about digital badges.
OUR ENROLLMENT COACHES ARE HERE TO HELP
Connect with an enrollment coach to learn more about this offering. Or if you need help finding the right certificate, specialization or course for you, reach out to explore your options.