About the Author Conservatory
An innovative online college-alternative program where students learn how to write and pitch novels, while starting their own business ventures and earning money as an entrepreneur.
A Holistic Approach to Writing and Business
Some writers view a publication contract as the finish line. We don’t. Many aspiring authors struggle because they don’t have the business skills they need to match their writing caliber. That’s why the Author Conservatory trains students to excel in both their writing craft and their business acumen.
Every student participates in two tracks: the writing track and the business track. The writing track guides students through every step of the writing process, from crafting a high-concept premise to polishing a final draft. In the business track, students learn essential strategies for marketing their books, building a platform, and creating income streams around their writing.
This holistic approach ensures that students are not only prepared to write compelling stories but also capable of supporting themselves long-term.
The Conservatory Model
The Author Conservatory was started by professional authors who saw the limitations of most college creative writing programs and wanted to create a better route that trained students to write genre novels & didn’t involve college debt.
The conservatory model dates back to the 16th century. Instead of taking classes in a broad range of disciplines, students in a conservatory take classes exclusively focused on the craft & business skills needed for their future career.
In the past, conservatories only existed for the visual & performing arts. We’ve innovated this time-tested model by bringing it online for writers.
With our intensive mentorship format, you’ll receive regular, personalized feedback from industry professionals to help refine your writing.
You’ll be taught by award-winning authors, professional editors, and successful entrepreneurs.
Throughout the program, you’ll complete at least two full-length novels under expert guidance, gaining hands-on experience in story development and structure.
You’ll launch a profitable entrepreneurial venture and learn practical tools for building a writing business.
You’ll graduate with the tools you need to pursue publication and earn money as an entrepreneur.
“I cannot stress enough how much stronger of a storyteller I was after just one year in The Author Conservatory than after four years of attending college for writing.”
203 students as of September 2024
Average class size: 6 students
13:1 student-faculty ratio as of September 2024 (national average: 14:1)
23.38% acceptance rate in 2023-24 (national average: 70%)
69% retention rate for 2023-24 (national average: 67.2%)
93% of graduates would choose the Conservatory again
Founded in 2020
Faith-Based Support and Encouragement
As a Christian program, The Author Conservatory places a strong emphasis on spiritual support and encouragement.
We believe that faith plays a vital role in the creative process, and we encourage our students to explore the intersection of their faith and their writing. Whether through prayer groups, spiritual mentorship, or simply sharing personal experiences, our community provides a safe space for students to grow both as writers and as individuals.
Character. Craft. Career.
If you dream of impacting others with your words, but also care about earning money to support yourself, you’ve come to the right place.
Character
As a Christian program, we take a holistic approach & care about our students as people first.
Craft
Students are personally mentored by professionals to value substance before style.
Career
We train our students to navigate the publishing industry & become entrepreneurs.
Why Choose the Author Conservatory?
Choosing the Author Conservatory means selecting a program that is deeply invested in your success. Here are just a few reasons why students choose the Author Conservatory:
- Comprehensive education that covers both the creative and business sides of writing.
- Personalized mentorship from experienced authors and industry professionals.
- A supportive community of like-minded writers who encourage and challenge each other.
- Faith-based support that nurtures your personal and spiritual growth as a writer.
Whether you’re just starting your writing journey or looking to take your career to the next level, the Author Conservatory provides the tools, guidance, and community you need to pursue your dreams.
