Keith Baker along with Monte Cook Are Teaching Sessions at DMU
Beginning in 2018, a specialized event organizer has been organizing immersive events where expert DMs lead D&D games in ancient fortresses in the UK and at an American castle venue. The full-service getaways are highly favored among long-time dungeon masters who infrequently find the moment to actually play themselves, and they often look for guidance from seasoned professionals on topics ranging from improvisation and puzzle design to dealing with tough scenarios at the table.
In response, the planners began designing a systematic approach to answer these inquiries, which led to the creation of the Dungeon Master Academy. The first session is scheduled for January 2-3, 2026 at Oglethorpe University.
“There are countless online tutorials on any topic and acquire valuable insights, but the idea was that nothing truly replaces face-to-face interaction in the company of fellow DMs, where direct communication with faculty instructors and other game masters likely in comparable situations and aim to level up their game,” explained the program's dean.
Workshop Options and Ticket Packages
Dungeon Masters can select options ranging from just under $1,000 to two thousand five hundred dollars, according to the level of access they desire with the instructors. The entry-level option includes one of four courses:
- Foundational Skills: Covers the basics of running D&D.
- Story Arc Development: Centers on designing extended campaigns.
- Universe Design: Highlights the art of setting design.
- Career Building: Designed for game masters who want to learn more about the roleplaying business.
Every class includes two days of instruction split over 48 hours.
“The courses are designed so that you leave with tangible results, enhanced belief in your abilities, and numerous applicable methods,” Carl noted. “These aren't simple talks and they’re not just static videos. These are sessions that you can attend, learn from, and then go right back home the week after and apply in your local game.”
Expert Instructors
The majority of workshops are led by two professors. Worldbuilding is guided by the founder of Monte Cook Games and the creator of Eberron, jointly leading the art of worldbuilding.
Industry advancement features four different teachers, such as a puzzle design specialist, an entertainment professional, and Hunter Fell. The expanded teaching staff is intended to offer targeted guidance to participants with particular aims.
“Certain participants want to launch their own real-play series and present their narratives with the world, several plan to produce and develop fresh ideas,” Carl said. “Some just want to ask, What does it take to be a DM at something like D&D in a Castle? What are the skills that I need? Is this achievable?”
Higher Tiers
A $1.5K enhanced option includes access to a welcome reception, a introductory package, and a 30-minute office hour appointment with one of the faculty. This constitutes the debut of the program, though the organizers has previously run similar events during breaks between campaigns at their premium gatherings.
“One could practically host an full two days just on consultation sessions for career game masters,” Carl said. “I don’t know if that’s the best use of all participants' schedule – In my opinion the formal instruction and the practical exercises is extremely important – but I think it’s going to be among the most sought-after parts of the program.”
The $2,500 top package offers an hour of one-on-one time and the chance to lead a session for a small group plus a teacher, who will then give comments and instruction.
“The goal is for the faculty member to evaluate any element is interested in: I struggle with improvisation or I feel stuck in certain battle scenarios. May I present a scenario for you and get feedback on where I excel and need improvement?” Carl explained. “Or maybe they want to obtain critique and information on a specific world that they’ve been building.”
Coming Developments
Input from the first event will help guide future Dungeon Master University sessions. Carl suggested that potential adjustments could include expanding one-on-one sessions, making it longer to three days, or trying out different seminar structures.
“I expect that we host such events regularly,” Carl expressed. “I would love to see several DMU sessions in a single year, in multiple places, and in multiple countries. The response has been extremely positive. We're quite pleased with what we’re seeing and I feel it would be fantastic to be able to do this in conjunction with major events.”