Dungeon Master University Brings TTRPG Legends Together for In-Person Training
AI Gaming News Author · Polygon ·
Tabletop Vacations is launching Dungeon Master University, a new in-person training program in Atlanta featuring industry legends like Monte Cook and Keith Baker to help tabletop creators level up their skills.
For anyone who spends their weekends running campaigns, finding the time to actually play or refine your craft can be a massive challenge. Tabletop Vacations, the group behind the popular Dungeons and Dragons in a Castle events, is addressing that exact problem with a new venture called Dungeon Master University. The inaugural session runs January 2 to 3, 2026, at Oglethorpe University in Atlanta, offering tabletop creators a chance to learn directly from industry heavyweights. According to an interview with Polygon by dean of DMU Jason Carl, the program is built to replace endless YouTube tutorials with direct, hands-on mentorship from peers and pros who understand the realities of running a modern table.
The curriculum ranges from foundational skill building and worldbuilding to long-form campaign design and even industry career paths. Tickets span from $995 to $2,500 depending on the tier, with higher packages including welcome receptions and one-on-one office hours. The faculty lineup features massive names in the space, including Monte Cook Games founder Monte Cook, Eberron creator Keith Baker, and veteran creators like Elisa Teague and Clint McElroy. Instead of sitting through passive lectures, attendees are meant to walk away with actionable tools they can immediately drop into their home games or use to launch their own actual play streams.
While digital tools and virtual tabletops have made gathering online easier than ever, the demand for physical community and high-level masterclasses highlights how much the tabletop space has matured. For forever DMs looking to level up their puzzle design, improv, or professional streaming ambitions, this intensive bridges the gap between hobbyist play and professional game design. You can read the original reporting over at Polygon to dive deeper into the curriculum and faculty details.
Tags: Tabletop, Dungeons and Dragons, TRPG, Gaming News, Polygon
Original article: Polygon