Creative Writing Summer Institute

Saint Louis University – Madrid Campus

Program Overview - Three-Week Program - July 7 to 25, 2025

The Creative Writing Summer Institute at Saint Louis University’s Madrid Campus is an immersive three-week program designed for aspiring writers looking to enhance their craft in fiction and non-fiction writing. Through workshops and lectures with working authors, day trips to inspiring literary locations, readings from local writers and industry professionals, and peer critiques, participants will develop their writing skills while experiencing the rich literary and cultural heritage of Madrid. The course is ideal for undergraduates, MFA students seeking an immersive summer experience, and individuals who want guidance on their writing in an international setting.

Set in one of Europe’s most inspiring cities, this program offers hands-on guidance from experienced faculty and guest writers, helping students refine their writing and explore new creative techniques.

Course Structure

Fiction Writing

-Work on reading and thinking as a writer.
-Meet working writers in a series of readings and workshops.
-Explore different genres, including literary fiction, genre fiction, and flash fiction.
-Participate in writing exercises, workshops, and peer critiques.
-Work toward completing a short story or novel excerpt.
Non-Fiction Writing
-Workshop your work in progress.
-Learn techniques for memoir, travel writing, and investigative non-fiction.
-Practice research, interviewing, and factual storytelling.
-Receive guidance on publishing and writing for different audiences.
-Complete a polished non-fiction piece by the end of the program.
Program Highlights
-Daily workshops and lectures led by experienced faculty and guest writers.
-One-on-one mentorship for personalized feedback.
-Excursions to Madrid’s literary landmarks, bookstores, and cultural sites.
-Cultural immersion activities, including guided literary walks and Spanish literary history sessions.
-Final showcase event, where students present their work.
Who Should Apply?
-High school graduates, university students, and current MFA students passionate about creative writing.
-Writers seeking an immersive literary experience in Madrid.
-Non-degree-seeking individuals looking for personal or professional development in writing.

Tuition & Enrollment
-Cost per course: 2,070 €

How to Apply & Register
-Current SLU Madrid students: If you have already been admitted, you can go ahead and register for these courses.
-Visiting students: If you would like to attend SLU Madrid as a visiting student, please apply for Summer Session II. Once admitted and after making the 50 € confirmation fee payment, you will be ready to register.
-Non-degree-seeking students: If you are taking the course for personal or professional development and not for credit, you can sign up directly and make full payment.

Important Policies

Health Insurance
SLU-Madrid provides all students enrolled in at least one credit course (on campus) with Sanitas Multi Insurance during the term of registration. Students taking the courses for no credit will not be covered and should arrange their own medical insurance while in Spain.
Refund Policy
-Refunds for dropping credit courses will follow the regular refund schedule published on our website.
-Refunds for non-credit students will only apply before the first day of class, with a minimum charge of 300 €.
-SLU-Madrid reserves the right to cancel under-enrolled courses up to two weeks before the start date. In such cases, students will receive a full refund for any payments made.
Dates & Location
-Program Duration: Three weeks
-Saint Louis University, Madrid Campus

Contact & More Information
-Website & Registration: 
Contact Us: timothy.day@slu.edu