Program Overview

Writing Institute

The Writing Institute offers a rich opportunity to grow as a writer and as a teacher of writing. Participation in the Institute will become a pivotal experience in one's professional life. The Gateway Writing Project (GWP) encourages educators to take leadership roles in their own educational settings, and upon graduating from the Writing Institute, they become GWP Teacher Consultants and valued leaders within the Writing Project Network.

Program Details

Through the Institute, participants will earn six hours of either English or Education graduate credit at the cost of UMSL graduate credit rate.

Program Options

There are two options available during the 2026-2027 academic calendar:

• 6 Credit Hours: 2 awarded each semester
  • In-person on UMSL Campus
  • 18 hours in Self-scheduled Virtual Meetings
  • Summer: July 6th - 10th; M-F 8:30 - 3:30 PM
  • Fall & Spring: Select Saturdays from 9:00 - 3:00
    • 8.29, 10.3, 12.5, 1.30, 2.13, 5.8
• 6 Credit Hours: 3 awarded each semester
  • In-person on UMSL Campus
  • Weekly Tuesday Evening Course, 5:30 - 8 PM

Program Focus

The Institute focuses on Professional Identity, Writing Identity, and learning in a Community of Practice, based on the social practices of the National Writing Project. The values that inform the course are:

• Writing is a tool for learning and reflection
• Teachers' voices should be an integral part of educational reform
• Teacher research can lead to significant and important shifts in classroom practice
• Collaboration strengthens our work within the classroom
• Teacher leadership and advocacy can extend our reach beyond the classroom

Program Activities

Participants will:

• Initiate many pieces of writing
• Read pieces that build a writing identity
• Participate in writing groups
• Share drafts of their work for peer feedback
• Bring pieces to publication in different genres
• Engage with literature, research, and questions about aspects of their practice
• Share best practices and resources
• Seek guidance where resources and strategies are needed

Accreditation

College of Education programs are accredited by:

• CACREP, Counseling
• NASP, School Psychology
• AAQEP Teacher Education