SJU Writing Studies Spring 2026 Course Offerings

Registration begins November 3!

Mondays, 6:30-9:15 pm, Online/Synchronous

ENG 665: Memoir

Instructor: Dr. Melissa A. Goldthwaite

CRN: 12113

E.L. Doctorow writes, “When you use memories as a source, they’re not different from any other source—the composition still has to be made.” In this course on memoir writing, we will read both essay-length and book-length memoirs to understand approaches to composing with memories as sources. In doing so, we will explore the nature of memory, the use of themes, the construction of scenes, the importance of voice and presence and reflection, the creation of characters who are also real people, the significance of structure, and more. Students will receive feedback from both the professor and peers on drafts so that they can improve their writing. Assignments include discussion of readings, crafting and participating in weekly writing exercises, and writing, workshopping, and revising a 15-to-20-page memoir or an outline for and chapter(s) from a book-length memoir. 

Tuesdays, 6:30-9:15 pm, Online/Synchronous

ENG 610: Science Writing

Instructor: Dr. Cristina Hanganu-Bresch 

CRN: 12090 

We live in an age dependent on scientific, medical, and technological developments, but also, paradoxically, in one which is increasingly skeptical of science, and in which controversies on scientific and medical issues abound. In this context, good science and medical writing is vitally important to our individual and collective well-being. This course allows you to practice the craft of writing about scientific and medical research for general audiences. We will explore ways to write captivating explanatory prose, find the most interesting news angles in published research, interview scientists, write key story elements with creative style, and respond to editing. We will also read and analyze some good, transformative science writing pieces along the way, and will monitor the science, health, and technology sections of major media outlets.

Wednesdays 6:30-9:15 pm, Online/Synchronous

ENG 675: Special Topics Writing Workshop - Writing and Reading the Novel

Instructor: Dr. April Lindner

CRN: 12091 

In this class you will explore the professional concerns of the novelist as you write the opening chapters for a novel of your own. Much of our in-class time will be spent workshopping. To further explore the possibilities of the novel, we will read books that take a range of narrative approaches. You will also choose a novel that takes a similar approach to your own project and present it to the class. Finally, you’ll keep a journal in which you respond to the assigned reading. At semester’s end, you’ll put together a final portfolio of your revised chapters and, as your final exam, you will draw up an outline, giving you a roadmap to continue on with your novel in progress.