Keith Baker along with Keith Baker Are Instructing Workshops at Dungeon Master University

Since 2018, a specialized event organizer has been organizing deeply engaging experiences where professional dungeon masters lead fantasy roleplaying games in old manors in England and at an American castle venue. The full-service getaways are highly favored among career game masters who seldom have the moment to join in the game themselves, and they often look for guidance from the pros on topics ranging from spontaneous storytelling and puzzle design to managing conflicts at the table.

In response, the organizers began designing a systematic approach to answer these inquiries, which led to the establishment of DMU. The first session is planned for January 2-3, 2026 at a university in Atlanta.

“There are thousands of YouTube videos on almost every theme and learn quite a lot, but the concept was that nothing compares to an in-person experience in the company of fellow DMs, where direct communication with expert teachers and your fellow DMs often in comparable situations and seek to improve their skills,” stated the dean of Dungeon Master University.

Available Classes and Ticket Packages

Game masters can opt for options ranging from $995 to $2.5K, depending on the level of access they desire with the instructors. The entry-level option includes one of four courses:

• Skill Building: Focuses on the basics of running D&D.
• Story Arc Development: Centers on building persistent adventures.
• Universe Design: Emphasizes the development of worlds.
• Professional Development: Designed for dungeon masters who aim to explore more about the gaming industry.

Each course includes two days of training divided across a weekend.

“The classes are designed so that you leave with immediate practical outcomes, probably greater confidence, and many practical techniques,” Carl said. “These aren't simple talks and they’re not just static videos. These workshops that you can participate in, learn from, and then return to your group the following week and apply in your regular session.”

Expert Instructors

Many sessions are instructed by duo of instructors. Worldbuilding is led by an industry veteran and a renowned campaign designer, jointly leading the skill of universe design.

Industry advancement includes four different teachers, such as Elisa Teague, an entertainment professional, and an early professional game master. The extra instructors is meant to provide specialized information to attendees with specific goals.

“Certain participants aim to start their own real-play series and share their stories with the world, others plan to produce and write original content,” Carl stated. “Several only seek to ask, What's the path to be a DM at something like an immersive experience? What capabilities that I need? Is it for everyone?”

Advanced Options

A $1.5K premium package provides access to a welcome reception, a starter kit, and a brief one-on-one appointment with a teacher. This marks the first Dungeon Master Academy, though the team has previously run similar events during breaks between adventures at their castle events.

“It would be possible to organize an full two days just on consultation sessions for career game masters,” Carl mentioned. “It's unclear if that’s the best use of all participants' schedule – In my opinion the formal instruction and the hands-on activities is too valuable – but I think it’s going to be a highly favored parts of the program.”

The twenty-five hundred dollar top package provides an 60-minute private session and the opportunity to run a game for a small group plus a teacher, who will then provide notes and guidance.

“The goal is for the teacher to assess whatever the DM is concerned with: I struggle with spontaneous decisions or I feel stuck in certain battle scenarios. May I present a situation for you and receive input on what my strengths and weaknesses are?” Carl said. “Or maybe they want to get feedback and advice on a definite universe that they’ve been developing.”

Coming Developments

Feedback from the first event will help guide future Dungeon Master University sessions. Carl suggested that possible changes could include expanding one-on-one sessions, making it longer to three days, or trying out alternative workshop formats.

“I hope that we conduct these frequently,” Carl said. “I truly hope to see several DMU sessions in a calendar year, in different cities, and in various nations. The reception has been overwhelmingly favorable. We’re very happy with current developments and I think it would be amazing to be able to do this in collaboration with major events.”