Keith Baker and Keith Baker Will Lead Sessions at Dungeon Master University

Since 2018, a specialized event organizer has been organizing deeply engaging experiences where expert DMs manage fantasy roleplaying games in ancient fortresses in England and at a U.S. castle resort. The comprehensive packages are especially popular among long-time dungeon masters who seldom have the opportunity to actually play themselves, and they often ask for tips from the pros on topics ranging from improvisation and crafting riddles to handling difficult situations at the table.

In response, the organizers began crafting a systematic approach to tackle these topics, which led to the establishment of Dungeon Master University. The first session is scheduled for January 2-3, 2026 at an Atlanta campus.

“You can watch numerous digital guides on any topic and acquire valuable insights, but the concept was that nothing compares to an in-person experience together with fellow DMs, where direct communication with seasoned educators and other game masters often in the same boat and aim to improve their skills,” stated Jason Carl.

Available Classes and Cost Levels

Dungeon Masters can select tiers ranging from nearly a thousand dollars to two thousand five hundred dollars, depending on the degree of interaction they desire with the instructors. The starting package includes selection from four classes:

• Core Techniques: Focuses on the basics of managing a session.
• Story Arc Development: Is dedicated to crafting long-running games.
• Universe Design: Emphasizes the development of worlds.
• Professional Development: Designed for game masters who aim to explore more about the gaming industry.

Each course includes multiple sessions of classwork spread over two days.

“The workshops are created so that you leave with immediate practical outcomes, increased self-assurance, and numerous applicable methods,” Carl said. “These aren't simple talks and they exceed pre-recorded material. These workshops that you can join, learn from, and then go right back home the following week and apply in your regular session.”

Seasoned Educators

Many sessions are instructed by duo of instructors. Universe creation is guided by an industry veteran and Keith Baker, both teaching the craft of setting creation.

Industry advancement includes multiple instructors, such as a puzzle design specialist, an entertainment professional, and a pioneering DM. The expanded teaching staff is meant to offer targeted guidance to students with specific goals.

“Some of them want to launch their own live gameplay show and display their adventures with the world, several want to publish and write original content,” Carl explained. “Several only seek 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?”

Premium Packages

A $1,500 enhanced option offers access to a opening gathering, a introductory package, and a brief one-on-one appointment with one of the faculty. This represents the debut of the program, though the company has previously run Castle Days during breaks between adventures at their immersive experiences.

“One could practically host an entire weekend just on one-on-one meetings for career game masters,” Carl observed. “I don’t know if that’s the best use of all participants' schedule – I believe the formal instruction and the hands-on activities is too valuable – but I believe it’s going to be among the most sought-after parts of the program.”

The $2,500 platinum tier offers an extended personal consultation and the possibility to run a game for five players plus one of the faculty members, who will then give comments and coaching.

“The goal is for the instructor to assess whichever aspect is focused on: I struggle with spontaneous decisions or I encounter obstacles in certain battle scenarios. May I present a situation for you and receive input on what my strengths and weaknesses are?” Carl detailed. “Alternatively they want to get feedback and guidance on a specific world that they’ve been creating.”

Next Steps

Input from the debut workshop will help shape upcoming academy workshops. Carl suggested that possible changes could include adding more office hours, making it longer to a longer period, or experimenting with varied class arrangements.

“I expect that we do this very often,” Carl expressed. “I would love to see numerous academy events in a calendar year, in various locations, and in various nations. The response has been extremely positive. We’re very happy with what we’re seeing and I believe it would be wonderful to be able to do this in partnership with major events.”