Novelist 101

A new course stimulates a long-running debate, as experts argue whether or not universities can train successful authors. Xing Yi reports.

The launch of a new master's program in writing by Beijing Normal University - a top Chinese university that is strong in Chinese literature - has stirred up an age-old debate on whether one can be taught to become a successful novelist.

Although it is not China's first advanced academic program in writing, the university is the first to claim that its course in "literary creation" aims to foster published authors. It has invited six established novelists and poets to be mentors for its students.