35 Best Essay Writing Classes in 2026

A free class at Plaza Branch, Kansas City on 12 October arguing that nonfiction can be as descriptive as fiction or poetry, and teaching the creative techniques to make true stories memorable. Aimed at writers who default to fiction because they assume nonfiction is the plainer form. Taught by an MFA candidate from the University of Missouri-Kansas City creative writing and media arts programme, through the library’s Writers for Readers series. Free, in person at Plaza Branch, Kansas City, RSVP required.

Three Thursday evening sessions with Beth Kanter and Anna Kahoe at The Writer's Center, 4508 Walsh Street, Bethesda, $150 ($135 for members), aimed at writers of any level trying to find the story that is currently nagging at them and get it onto the page. Runs 8 to 22 October, 6.30pm to 9.30pm. Two instructors on a class this size is unusual and means more individual attention than a single-tutor workshop.

Weekly writing workshops that facilitate creative exploration in various genres, including literary fiction, poetry, and non-fiction. Participants can attend the first session at no cost as a guest. The workshops use the Amherst Writers & Artists method to encourage artistic growth.

Single-day in-person workshop at the Rozelle campus, 2A Gordon St, on Saturday 19 September, 10am to 4pm, with Elizabeth Gascoigne Rosa. Fee $202 AUD including GST - the cheapest taught creative writing day currently running in Sydney. The focus is the short true story: essay-length non-fiction rather than a book-length project. This is the only session the college has scheduled for this course, so there is no later date to fall back on.

In-person workshop in Boston, $445 ($430 for members), taught by Ethan Gilsdorf. Six Tuesdays, 15 September to 20 October 2026, 10:30am-1:30pm at GrubStreet’s Seaport centre. The structure is the point: one finished essay a week for six weeks, so it produces a body of work rather than fragments. Daytime slot.

In-person series in Cincinnati, $110 ($85 for CAC members or students), at the Contemporary Arts Center. Four Saturday mornings, 3 to 24 October 2026, 10:00am-12:00pm, sold as a series rather than single sessions. Each series is taught by a rotating group of local and published writers and moves across poetry, nonfiction and prose rather than sticking to one form. Class size is capped for individual attention, and a notebook of guided prompts is included. Winter (Feb) and spring (Apr) 2027 series dates are already published.

In-person course in Seattle, $490 (early-bird $441), taught by Nicole Hardy. Eight Saturday sessions, 26 September to 21 November 2026 at Hugo House, 1634 11th Ave (no class 10 October). Personal essay specifically rather than general creative nonfiction, and open to introductory and intermediate writers in the same room.

This 8-week course focuses on mindful writing practices, including meditation and freewriting, to explore personal life experiences and transform them into essays. It encourages self-discovery, community building, and offers insights into the personal essay publishing market.

This course focuses on balancing the creative and editorial aspects of writing, helping writers understand and adapt both roles in their writing process. It combines philosophy with practical guidance.

The University of Toronto offers an introductory course in creative writing, designed to cover the basics and encourage creative expression. It's suitable for those beginning their journey in creative writing, looking to explore various aspects of the craft​​​​​​​​.

A one-hour online seminar for all levels to respond to writing prompts, share work, and connect with other writers. It's designed to kickstart new writing projects and foster community.

This course focuses on strategies for writers to manage their own marketing without high costs, covering how to leverage community support, contact venues, engage with book clubs, and find funding opportunities.