Monday, January 05, 2009

Question about UCLA Extention

From "E"...

I'm looking for any insights/opinions on the UCLA Extension Writer's Program Certificate in Creative Writing.

http://www2.uclaextension.edu/writers/detail.php?sID=certprog

It's not an MFA, but I'm considering enrolling in the program to take a few classes and get my bearings. I graduated with a degree in Journalism in 2007 and have always wanted to pursue an advanced degree in creative writing (narrative non-fiction ideally). I'm just a bit lost at the moment as to what I'm doing with my life, and I'd like to relocate to the LA area because I have some entertainment-industry connections I'd like to pursue.

Do you (or any readers) think that taking classes towards a certificate would be a good idea, or a waste of time? The benefits in my mind would be that I could be living in Los Angeles, have loans to(hopefully) live off of, be meeting people in the biz, and taking writing classes all the time. As I wouldn't have to do the whole GRE and application process I could begin right away, which is also an advantage as I get laid off of my "real world" job in a few months. Any word on the UCLA certificate program and if it has a good reputation?

Any insight would be greatly appreciated! Thanks so much!

8 comments:

Unknown said...

I'm a middle school English teacher in the L.A. area, now applying for MFA programs, and I have taken one creative writing course through UCLA Extension. I found it very helpful, and my instructor was excellent, but do keep in mind that UCLA-X doesn't provide the level of attention and intensity of instruction that you would enjoy in an MFA program. I'd be happy to discuss UCLA-X more specifically over email if you have any other questions. -Tim mr.timschlosser@gmail.com

Shana said...

I don't know anything about the UCLA program, but I did a year-long certificate program in writing at UW a few years back. While definitely not a replacement for an MFA, it was a great way to stay motivated/keep writing in the course of busy work life. It inspired me to push forward to the MFA and helped get me started on a number of pieces. However, the program at UCLA looks more time/$$-intensive than the one I did, so I'm not sure I'd see it as worth it over an MFA...

Anonymous said...
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Anonymous said...

I dont know anything about UCLA either, however, you'd be surprised at how many universities dont take the GRE into account during the application process. There are a substanial amount of schools that don't require them. You should check them out. In the mean time take some workshops to get you started in the process.

Tim said...
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Tim said...

E, I've taken several online classes in memoir and screenwriting through UCLA Extension. I recommend it highly, especially for your transition phase between independent writing and possibly entering a full-blown MFA program. UCLA Extension was a great way for me to get near-anonymous feedback from others. The writing deadlines were also helpful at times.

-Tim (same name, different guy)

Unknown said...

Hi, This is Daniel, an advisor at the UCLA Extension Writers' Program. Tim said it pretty well above me but I thought I'd add a few words.
The certificate provides you with an affordable, low-pressure environment to prepare you for an MFA or just gives you with a more structured path to follow as you improve your writing. There’s no application process and you are eligible for benefits such as free one-day workshops and a manuscript consultation when your certificate is complete. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me at dasanchez@uclaextension.edu.

e/m said...

I took one class at the extension center with Les Plesko and greatly enjoyed it. I do think it would be good to take a few classes but I know they are pricey. I would prob stick to an MFA versus the certificate but that is just my personal opinion.