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The Novel Workshop
ENGLISH CNW 001

Course Information

Description

In this workshop, we will study the art and craft of writing novels. We’ll consider published work in order to get a better sense of the multiple choices writers can make when they shape a book-length narrative. Our objectives will be the following: (1) to prepare you for writing a novel, (2) to deepen your reading of other writers’ work,  (3) to workshop the opening chapter(s) of your novel, (4) to help you create a working outline for the kind of book you want to write. While some workshop experience would be useful, it is not required. Students who wish to apply for a creative thesis focused on fiction / a novel-length project are strongly encouraged to take this workshop. 

Class Notes

Admission by application only. For information on specific application requirements and instructions, please see the full course listing on the English Department website. 

DEADLINE: For all Fall 2026 workshops, applications will open by Monday, March 23 and are due via Submittable by 11:59pm on Sunday, April 5. Students will be notified of admissions decisions by 4:00pm ET on Thursday, April 9, and must accept/claim their seats within 24 hours. Workshops will meet the first week of classes.

School Faculty of Arts & Sciences
Credits 4
Cross Reg

Available for Harvard Cross Registration

Department English
Course Component Workshop
Subject English
Grading Basis FAS Letter Graded
Exam/Final Deadline Dec. 15, 2026
General Education N/A
Quantitative Reasoning with Data N/A
Divisional Distribution Arts and Humanities
Course Level For Undergraduate and Graduate Students