Blog
Independent Writing Programs: A Conversation on Creative Community Beyond the MFA
by Writing Workshops Staff
5 days ago
The Big Conversation Spotlights Alternative Paths for Writers
The literary world is evolving, and with it, the pathways to becoming a writer. In an in-depth panel discussion featured in The Writer's Chronicle, our founder and executive director, Blake Kimzey, joined fellow leaders from the independent writing community to explore how non-MFA programs are reshaping creative education across the country.
This important conversation, moderated by Blake, brought together voices from some of the nation's most innovative independent writing programs—Rebecca Makkai of StoryStudio Chicago, G. E. Patterson of The Loft Literary Center, Julia Fierro of Sackett Street Writers, and WritingWorkshops.com—to discuss how these organizations are creating vibrant alternatives to traditional academic pathways.
Why Independent Writing Programs Matter Now More Than Ever
The traditional MFA model, while valuable for many, isn't accessible or practical for everyone. Financial constraints, geographic limitations, family obligations, and career commitments often make a two- or three-year residential program impossible. Independent writing programs have emerged as powerful alternatives, offering:
- Flexibility: Classes that work around real-life schedules
- Affordability: Programs without the burden of student debt
- Community: Diverse groups of writers at all stages of their journey
- Accessibility: Both online and in-person options
- Focused Learning: Targeted workshops on specific craft elements
- Professional Development: Direct connections to the publishing world
Building Literary Communities Coast to Coast
What emerged from the panel discussion was a shared vision: independent writing programs aren't just alternatives to MFAs—they're creating entirely new models for how writers learn, grow, and connect.
StoryStudio Chicago has been nurturing writers in the Midwest since 2003, offering over 200 classes annually in their unique loft space in Ravenswood. Their approach combines rigorous craft instruction with a warm, supportive community atmosphere. From single-session workshops to year-long programs, they've created a home for writers who believe that stories matter.
The Loft Literary Center in Minneapolis stands as one of the nation's largest independent literary centers. Founded in 1974 in a bookstore loft, they've grown into a powerhouse serving thousands of writers annually. Their commitment to diversity and accessibility—including pay-what-you-can classes for BIPOC writers—demonstrates how independent programs can lead the way in creating inclusive literary spaces.
Sackett Street Writers in New York, founded by Iowa Writers' Workshop graduate Julia Fierro, has been named "New York City's best writing class" by multiple publications. Their selective Master Fiction Workshops and innovative Manuscript Generator program offer intensive, publication-focused instruction for serious writers ready to take their work to the next level.
WritingWorkshops.com has expanded the concept of community beyond geographic boundaries. With over 25,000 students to date, we've created a global classroom where writers can learn from New York Times bestsellers, New Yorker contributors, Pulitzer and NBA finalists, award-winning poets, and literary magazine editors—all while maintaining the intimate workshop experience that transforms good writers into great ones. Our destination workshops in Paris, Iceland, Hawaii, and beyond combine intensive craft instruction with the inspiration of place.
The Power of Choice in Your Writing Journey
As the conversation in The Writer's Chronicle revealed, there's no single path to becoming a writer. Each of these programs offers something unique:
- Writers seeking the energy of a physical space and local community
- Those needing the flexibility of online learning
- Emerging writers looking for their first workshop experience
- Experienced writers ready for advanced critique and publishing guidance
- International writers seeking connection across borders
- Working professionals who can only commit to weekend or evening classes
What Sets Independent Programs Apart
The panelists agreed on several key advantages that independent writing programs offer:
Diverse Voices: Unlike many MFA programs that can develop a "house style," independent programs celebrate varied approaches to craft and storytelling.
Real-World Focus: With instructors who are actively publishing and working in the industry, these programs maintain strong connections to the current literary landscape.
Sustainable Practice: Rather than the intensive, often unsustainable pace of an MFA, independent programs help writers develop lifelong writing habits that work with their lives, not against them.
Immediate Application: Writers can immediately apply what they learn without waiting to complete a degree program.
Finding Your Literary Home
The beauty of the independent writing program ecosystem is that it's not competitive—it's collaborative. Many writers take classes at multiple organizations, building a personalized education that serves their unique goals. Some use these programs as preparation for MFA applications, while others find them to be their complete writing education.
At WritingWorkshops.com, we're proud to be part of this vibrant community. Whether you're drawn to our online workshops led by acclaimed authors, our intensive destination retreats, or our craft-focused seminars on everything from character development to literary journal publishing, we're here to help you find your voice and share your stories with the world.
The Future of Writing Education
As Blake noted in the panel discussion, independent writing programs aren't trying to replace MFAs—they're expanding what's possible in creative writing education. By removing barriers and creating new opportunities, these programs ensure that anyone with a story to tell can find the support, instruction, and community they need to tell it well.
The conversation in The Writer's Chronicle marks an important moment—a recognition that the future of writing education is diverse, accessible, and driven by community rather than credentials.
Join the Conversation
Ready to explore what an independent writing program can offer you? Browse our upcoming classes at WritingWorkshops.com, where you'll find everything from beginner-friendly introductions to advanced workshops on the business of writing.
And don't miss the full panel discussion in The Writer's Chronicle—it's essential reading for anyone considering their options in creative writing education.
The Writer's Chronicle is the bimonthly publication of the Association of Writers & Writing Programs. Since 1967, the magazine has been a valuable resource for writers at all stages of their careers, featuring essays, articles, news, and conversations about writing and publishing.
