Writing Support
The Office of the Provost has developed specialized programs to address the challenge that many faculty members face in finding time to write. These programs offer dedicated time and space for writing projects, ensuring faculty can focus on their scholarly work without interruptions. Both the Summer Writing Retreats and the quarterly On-site Writing Group promote productivity, career success and personal fulfillment. Whether you are writing a book proposal, manuscript, a grant proposal, paper or article, or a screenplay, this is an opportunity to boost your confidence and motivation for writing and learn sustainable new habits while writing in a scholarly community.
On-site Faculty Writing Group
During the school year, the Office of the Provost hosts a small weekly On-site Faculty Writing Group for full-time faculty, providing dedicated time and space. Participants spend a full morning writing independently and have the opportunity to share progress with peers and celebrate accomplishments.
Faculty Summer Writing Retreats
The Faculty Summer Writing Retreats provide a full week of uninterrupted time and space for writing (participants can choose from one of two sessions). The weeklong daily retreats offer blocks of time for writing, individual writing consultations, take-home meal support and caregiving stipends to eligible faculty. Learn more about the impact of the 2026 retreats.
Additional Writing Resources
Career Development and Writing Support Grant
The Career Development and Writing Support Grant provides up to $4,000 toward participation in a career development program and/or toward writing/publication expenses. Examples of eligible writing supports include:
- Fees for professional editing or indexing services (copyeditors, developmental editors, etc.) or publication services
- Registration for participation in fee-based faculty career development programs, such as the Faculty Success Program hosted by the NCFDD
- Fees for an academic coach or writing coach
Other expenses such as travel to attend conferences or meet with collaborators, and participation in writing residencies or retreats will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Communicating Your Research
The Office of the Provost and the Office of Global Marketing and Communication (OGMC) co-sponsor a series of workshops on communicating your research to a wider audience, including the media and the public.
NCFDD
Utilize your Northwestern institutional membership in the NCFDD for free access to the 14-Day Writing Challenge, webinars and other resources.