Writing Courses

The CWA writing courses are open to any undergraduate at Northwestern who has met the prerequisite of having already taken one writing-intensive course at Northwestern. They are taught by Visiting Writers in Residence. It's a unique opportunity to study with a prominent visiting writer only on campus for one quarter. You can view our list of past Visiting Writers in Residence by CLICKING HERE.

WRITING 301-0 The Art of Fiction Fundamental skills of narrative in the creation of fictional works. Extensive writing exercises. 

WRITING 302-0 The Art of Poetry Writing of poetry in the light of the poetic, linguistic, and historical tradition. Extensive writing exercises. 

WRITING 303-0 The Art of Nonfiction Writing as a fundamental skill in a particular field such as science, law, journalism, literature, or political commentary. Extensive writing exercises. 

» View our course matrix page and the list of writing courses available to Northwestern students. «

Recent Course Descriptions

Spring Quarter 2016
Rabih Alameddine, The Art of Fiction

Winter Quarter 2016
Alex Kotlowitz, The Art of Non-Fiction: Telling Stories

Spring Quarter 2015
Maaza Mengiste, The Art of Fiction

Winter Quarter 2015
Alex Kotlowitz, The Art of Non-Fiction: Telling Stories

Spring Quarter 2014
Mark Turcotte, The Art of Fiction

Winter Quarter 2014
Alex Kotlowitz, The Art of Non-Fiction: Telling Stories

Spring Quarter 2013
Tsitsi Dangarembga, The Art of Fiction

Winter Quarter 2013
Alex Kotlowitz, The Art of Non-Fiction: Telling Stories

Winter Quarter 2012
Alex Kotlowitz, The Art of Non-Fiction: Telling Stories

Fall Quarter 2011
Jane Taylor 

Winter Quarter 2011
Alex Kotlowitz, The Art of Non-Fiction: Telling Stories

Fall Quarter 2010
Zaks Mda 

Winter Quarter 2010
Alex Kotlowitz, The Art of Non-Fiction: Telling Stories

Fall Quarter 2009
Chris Abani 

Winter Quarter 2009
Alex Kotlowitz, The Art of Non-Fiction: Telling Stories

Fall Quarter 2008
Sefi Atta, The Art of Fiction

Winter Quarter 2008
Alex Kotlowitz, The Art of Non-Fiction: Telling Stories

Fall Quarter 2007
Ed Roberson, The Art of Poetry:

Winter Quarter 2007
Alex Kotlowitz, The Art of Non-Fiction: Telling Stories
Modes of Writing: Time and Chance