The Institute for Children's Literature promises a complete manuscript suitable for submission to publishers by the end of the course. The 12 assignments can be submitted through the mail or online. The school also touts one-on-one instruction by experienced writers and editors. Six college credits can be awarded through Charter Oak State College in Connecticut. The school says more than 1,100 of its students are published every year.
The University of Washington, among other universities, offers a graduate certificate in writing for children as part of its continuing and professional education programs. The eight-month program starts with an examination of plot, character, setting and other elements of literature. It teaches how to develop a story from the beginning through the middle to the end. The program also covers the more businesslike aspects of writing, tackling topics such as editors, agents and contracts.
Many universities offer electives in children's writing as part of an undergraduate degree in English or literature. San Diego State University's National Center for the Study of Children's Literature offers a master's program but also many courses for undergraduates to choose from. It also employs the most experts in the field of any university. In the fall of 2010 a survey course on the elements of fantasy in children's storytelling was offered, along with a course on adolescence in literature. Distance learning is not available.
Simmons College offers a master of arts in children's literature and a master of fine arts in writing for children. The two can also be pursued as a dual degree. Both degrees start with a theoretical core covering history, criticism, picture books and a genre-based elective. M.F.A. students then take writing courses and produce a manuscript under the guidance of faculty. M.A. students take chronological-based courses and produce a thesis or independent study project.