Sci-Fi & Fantasy Workshop: Online

Class Description

GrubStreet's Sci-fi and Fantasy workshop is going virtual! In this class, we’ll apply elements of the traditional workshop—a focus on craft, language, character, and plot—to the specific considerations of science fiction and fantasy writing. We’ll concentrate on story elements that are unique to these genres, such as believability and consistency in world-building, the "hero" arc of the protagonist, genre tropes, and invented languages. This class involves weekly readings and discussions (20 - 40 pages), short writing prompts, and workshop. Short story writers and novelists alike are welcome, as are students new to the genre; however, writers should come to class either with an existing project or a concrete idea to develop.

This online class is classified as a workshop, which means students will form into cohorts to discuss each other's work weekly. Each student will also receive a comprehensive workshop from the whole class, plus the instructor, 2-3 times in the course of the class. Please expect to dedicate at least 5 hours a week to this class.

Please note that while our handy dandy "Schedule" tab states a 6-7pm class time, there are actually no live meetings for this class! Assignments and deadlines will be given by your instructor. Students will have access to the online class portal starting at 5pm on the first day of class. Instructions for logging onto the online portal will be emailed to registered students before 5pm the first day of class.

Did you know that we have scholarships available for all GrubStreet classes? To apply, click the "APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIP" button in the top right corner of this page. In order to be considered for a scholarship, you must complete your scholarship application and await our Scholarship Committee's decision before registering for the class. Scholarships cannot be applied retroactively.