Ever had the desire to write? Do you have ideas for stories but struggle to put them into words? Creative writing is an effective way to express your ideas, emotions, and stories. Whether you want to write novels, poems, or just enjoy telling stories, it can help you connect with others in meaningful ways, with the goal often being to entertain readers. To achieve this, you require a level of organization, storytelling, and creativity to do well.
Like any other skill, creative writing can be developed and honed, and thankfully, online courses have made learning it easier than ever. You can learn from experts, connect with like-minded individuals and also take part in workshops that boost your creativity, all from the comfort of your home.
We’ve put together a guide to the exciting world of online creative writing education, exploring the best courses and learning platforms available today. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned wordsmith looking to refine your skills, you’ll discover how these digital resources can transform your writing journey.
Choosing the Right Course for You
Since the learning journey is unique, several factors play a crucial role when selecting an online creative writing course, ensuring you make the right decision aligned with your goals and growth as a writer. It’s essential to consider your schedule, and learning preferences to ensure you get the most out of your chosen course.
Here are additional factors to consider that will help you make an informed decision.
- Skill level: It’s important to define your objectives. Are you a complete beginner looking to build foundational skills, or an experienced writer aiming to refine your craft in a specific genre? Understanding your current level and what you want to achieve will help you narrow down your options.
- Course structure: Consider the course format and duration, as some offer flexibility with self-paced learning while others have fixed schedules with live sessions. The amount of tutor time often impacts the course cost, so it’s important to decide how much personal attention you need.
- Instructor expertise: Look for courses led by reputable tutors with relevant credentials and experience. As a beginner, you’ll likely find that courses taught by experienced educators offer better support, while published authors can provide valuable insights if you’re a more advanced writer. Additionally, consider whether the instructor has examples of their teachings, like an introductory video, to help you assess if their style resonates with you.
- Course reviews and ratings: Always research the course provider’s reputation and read student reviews to ensure you’re investing in a quality learning experience. The reviews section is particularly helpful, as it highlights who the course is best suited for (beginners, advanced, etc.), what students liked most, and whether it met their expectations. This helps you avoid wasting time on courses that are too advanced or not the right fit for your needs.
- Pricing: Consider if the pricing model fits your budget, whether it’s a one-time fee or subscription. Next think about the value you’ll receive for your money, as sometimes paying a bit more can lead to higher-quality education.
- Community aspects are also worth considering. Many online creative writing courses provide access to writing communities, which can be invaluable for peer support and networking. Participating in these communities can boost your motivation and accountability.
Benefits of Learning Creative Writing Online
Online courses offer a structured environment that helps you develop your writing practice consistently. With regular assignments, deadlines, and a clear learning path, you can stay motivated and focused as you refine your skills.
Here are some benefits of learning creative writing online that can take your writing journey to the next level.
- Flexibility and convenience: Online creative writing courses offer flexibility, allowing you to learn at your own pace and fit lessons around your schedule. This way, you can pursue your passion without sacrificing work or family time.
- Access to a wide range of resources and expert instructors: Online courses offer a variety of learning materials like video lectures, written content, and audio resources, all designed to suit different learning styles. This approach makes it easier for you to grasp and retain new information.
- Opportunities for peer feedback and collaboration: If your course has an active community, that’s a big plus. You’ll connect with writers worldwide, share insights, and receive feedback, which will inspire and broaden your perspective.
What are some of the best online creative writing platforms and courses?
These creative writing online courses and platforms provide the tools and knowledge to nurture and elevate your writing skills.
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MasterClass
MasterClass adopts a unique approach compared to most online learning platforms. It is a game-changer for online creative writing courses, offering an experience that feels as engaging as an in-person writing workshop. What sets these courses apart is the caliber of instructors – renowned authors who share their expertise and insights. The platform is a goldmine, they currently offer over 15 writing courses, each taught by some of the most successful writers of our generation. The courses typically feature 20 to 25 video lessons, each ranging from 10 to 15 minutes in length, making them ideal for quick viewing whenever it fits into your schedule.These aren’t typical academic lectures; instead, they’re practical, insightful sessions led by experts who understand the real challenges writers face.
MasterClass offers three membership plans billed annually: Standard at $10 per month, Plus at $15 (with access on two devices), and Premium at $20 (allowing up to six devices). Although there’s no free trial, each plan includes a 30-day satisfaction guarantee.
While it’s not the cheapest option out there, the investment is well worth it for the wealth of knowledge and inspiration gained.
Benefits of Learning Creative Writing on MasterClass
- You’ll learn from celebrity authors and experts, which makes the experience exciting.
- The videos are engaging and feature high production quality, along with supplementary materials that enhance your learning experience.
- Most courses start with the basics, making them accessible for everyone, regardless of your skill level
- With a subscription, you gain access to over 100 courses on various topics
- The platform creates a supportive environment for collaboration with instructors and other students.
Potential Drawbacks
- You won’t receive a certificate upon completing a course on MasterClass.
- MasterClass doesn’t offer the option to purchase individual classes. There is also no monthly subscription available.
- The classes may not be suitable if you’re an advanced learner, as some users say they are more suited to those looking for introductory-level content.
- There is limited feedback from instructors.
- Reviews from past members are brief and lack detail.
Margaret Atwood Teaches Creative Writing
Margaret Atwood's Creative Writing class covers everything from structuring plots to crafting compelling characters. Her lessons on character development are particularly enlightening, emphasizing that characters don't always have to be likable, which can really expand your approach to character creation.
Malcolm Gladwell Teaches Writing
This course covers essential elements of writing non-fiction, such as structuring narratives, engaging readers, and developing characters and their worlds. Gladwell's approach to organizing his writing through a number system is particularly insightful, providing a practical method for piecing together stories. His lessons on character descriptions and world-building will change how you introduce and develop your characters.
Joyce Carol Oates Teaches the Art of Short Story
Literary legend Joyce Carol Oates offers aspiring writers an in-depth exploration of crafting compelling short fiction. As a prolific author and Princeton University creative writing professor, Oates shares her extensive knowledge to help you develop your unique voice and storytelling skills.
Coursera
Coursera partners with top universities and institutions worldwide to offer courses, specializations, and even full degrees across various disciplines. For creative writing, it provides a wealth of knowledge and practical skills through courses that cover various aspects of writing, including plot, character development, setting, description, and style. The platform provides on-demand video lectures, peer-reviewed assignments, and community discussion forums, making it an excellent choice for learners seeking flexibility and academic rigor.
The pricing model on Coursera allows you to choose the option that best fits your learning goals and financial situation, from exploring courses for free to investing in full degree programs, with many offering free auditing options and writing practice for paying learners. Professional certifications and specializations cost $49 per month, covering related courses to help you master a specific skill. Coursera Plus also provides unlimited access to their entire catalog at $59 per month or $399 per year.
The annual plan has a 14-day money-back guarantee, and the monthly plan includes a 7-day free trial. Both plans can be canceled at any time.
Benefits of Learning Creative Writing on Coursera
- You learn from experienced authors and professors from renowned institutions and receive accredited certifications.
- Study at your own pace, fitting lessons into your busy schedule.
- The platform offers constructive peer reviews to help improve your work.
- You’ll build your portfolio through course assignments.
- You can also access financial aid on Coursera if you’re unable to pay.
Potential Drawbacks
- The quality of feedback for peer reviews can be inconsistent.
- Some courses might not delve as deep into certain topics as you’d like.
- Direct communication with instructors is often minimal.
- The quality of content may differ between courses.
Udemy
Udemy, one of the largest platforms in the online learning space offers a wide array of creative writing courses.These courses cover a wide range of genres and styles, from fiction and non-fiction to poetry and screenwriting, and are tailored to suit all skill levels and interests. The platform is well-known for its user-generated content, featuring different perspectives and teaching styles. This means the courses are created by individual instructors, ranging from industry professionals to passionate amateurs.
Udemy offers a variety of affordable creative writing courses, including free options, making it accessible to many students. However, if you’re seeking premium learning, some courses may have higher costs. Prices typically range from $10 to $200, with frequent discounts of up to 85% available.
Benefits of Learning Creative Writing on Udemy:
- Udemy frequently offers discounts, bringing course prices down to $20 or less, plus a 30-day money-back guarantee.
- The pre-recorded video lectures, which are accessible forever, allow you to revisit the materials anytime without any deadlines.
- Completing a course earns you a shareable certificate for professional networks.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Because the courses are user-generated, expect that the quality can vary significantly.
- Udemy certificates are not accredited, you may need to explore other platforms if you are looking for recognized qualifications in creative writing.
- There is limited interaction with the instructor and response times can vary.
Domestika
Domestika is a multilingual platform that offers fantastic online creative writing courses taught by experienced professionals and provides practical exercises to enhance your writing skills. Its focus on practical skills, the opportunity to learn from industry professionals, and its user-friendly interface are one of the standout features. The courses are well-structured and easy to follow, making it perfect for beginners. Plus, the platform offers lifetime access to purchased courses, so you can learn at your own pace.
Domestika’s courses typically cost between $10-$40, with regular discounts for individual courses and special deals for bundles offering 30%-40% off, which means the price of individual courses can sometimes be less than $10. For a broader learning experience, Domestika offers a subscription plan at $20.99 USD per month or $119.99 per year, which comes with additional benefits. Although there is no free trial, you can exchange your course for another within 14 days of purchase.
Benefits of Learning Creative Writing on Domestika
- Earn recognized certifications upon course completion.
- Explore diverse areas of creative writing, an opportunity to specialize in your preferred genre or experiment with new styles.
- Access a wide selection of high-quality creative courses designed to engage and challenge you.
- Budget-friendly subscription, giving you access to multiple courses for a great value
Potential Drawbacks
- Many courses are primarily offered in Spanish, limiting options for English-speaking users.
- Some features are restricted to either the app or the website
- Customer support may not be as responsive or helpful as desired.
Creative Writing for Beginners: Bringing Your Story to Life
As an author and creative writing teacher with over 20 years of experience, Shaun guides you through the process of sketching with words and using imagination to craft memorable stories. This course focuses on practical exercises that help sharpen your writing voice. The course has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with a 99% approval rating from over 57,000 students.
Writing a Novel Step by Step
This course is another excellent option, guiding you on a literary journey to write a novel from cover to cover. Cristina teaches you how to develop your concept, characters, narrators, and the setting and time frame. By the end of the course, you’ll have the tools to transform your ideas into words on a page and write an original story.
Writing Exercises: From the Blank Page to Everyday Practice
Aniko Villalba’s course is another gem on Domestika, designed to help you transform writing into a rewarding daily habit.The engaging exercises included in the course are perfect for overcoming writer’s block, igniting your creativity, and establishing a sustainable writing habit.
BBC Maestro
BBC Maestro is a subscription-based streaming service quite similar to MasterClass, offering online creative writing courses taught by celebrity experts who share their expertise and passion.They currently offer about 12 writing courses, each featuring 20 to 35 video lessons and totaling approximately 6 hours of content.Their focus on high-quality, pre-recorded lessons and detailed course notes provide valuable insights into the craft of writing and storytelling.
There are two options for accessing the courses on Maestro. You can either purchase a single course for £79 (USD 89.00), which gives you lifetime access to that specific course, or opt for an annual subscription at £120 (USD 120.00), granting you access to all courses for a year.
Although there are no free trials available, the platform does provide a 14-day refund policy for individual courses, a 30-day money-back guarantee for annual subscriptions, and discounts of up to 40% on both courses and subscriptions. Given the price difference, the annual subscription offers the best value for your money.
Benefits of Learning Creative Writing on BBC Maestro
- More flexible payment options when compared to Masterclass.
- You’ll learn from celebrity authors and experts.
- Masterclass regularly updates its catalog with new courses.
- The videos are engaging and feature high production quality.
- With an annual subscription, you gain access to over 100 courses on various topics.
Potential Drawbacks
- No qualifications or certifications awarded.
- No opportunity to connect with other students.
- There’s no written feedback or detailed comments from past students about specific courses.
- No direct interaction with instructors.
- No free courses or trials available.
- The subscription cost may seem high, given that you only have access to the courses for one year, whether you buy a single course or subscribe annually.
Alan Moore teaches Storytelling
Moore, known for his groundbreaking work in comics and novels, teaches you to create characters, stories, and worlds, while dispelling the myth that writing is only for a select few. His course covers various aspects of writing, from finding original ideas to world-building for sci-fi and fantasy, inspiring you to use your creativity to make a difference.
Ken Follett teaches Writing Bestselling Fiction
If you are a fan of Ken Follett, you’ll appreciate how he shares his 50 years of experience, emphasizing the importance of starting your story with a dramatic question to draw readers into the imaginary world you create. and maintaining tension every four to six pages. His drafting approach, working with the first draft alongside a list of necessary changes, offers practical and valuable guidance.
Jojo Moyes teaches Writing Love Stories
This course is perfect for understanding the novel-writing process, especially if you’re interested in love stories and romance. Moyes takes you through her entire writing journey. You’ll learn how to discover the right idea, find your true voice, create realistic characters, and structure compelling plots. Additionally, she shares practical advice on editing and tips for finding agents and publishers.
LinkedIn Learning
LinkedIn Learning offers a wide range of online creative writing courses and other professional development opportunities. A standout feature is the ability to earn certificates upon course completion, which you can add to your LinkedIn profile. This is great for showcasing your newly acquired skills to potential employers or clients. With the flexibility to learn at your own pace and the opportunity to network with professionals and peers, LinkedIn Learning supports your growth as a writer while connecting you to a broader creative community.
The subscription cost for LinkedIn Learning is $29.99 per month or $239.88 annually (charged at $19.99 per month). Opting for the annual plan offers significant savings compared to the monthly subscription. However, both plans provide full access to all features and include a 1-month free trial. Alternatively, you can purchase individual courses, which typically cost between $20 and $50.
Benefits of Learning Creative Writing on Linkedin Learning
- One-month free trial with full access to over 17,000 courses
- Shareable completion certificate for your LinkedIn profile
- More affordable compared to many other MOOCs
- Integrates seamlessly with LinkedIn
- Available in multiple languages for global learners
Potential Drawbacks
- Certificates are not accredited and can’t be used for college credits
- Some courses contain outdated content
- Auto-playing videos can be distracting
- No direct contact with instructors
- Some courses may lack depth
Conclusion
Online creative writing courses open up a world of opportunities for you to hone your craft. These platforms offer a diverse range of options, catering to writers at all levels and covering various genres and aspects of writing. The flexibility and accessibility of these courses make them an attractive choice for you to improve your skills while balancing other commitments. Additionally, these courses provide a structured environment for your writing practice, helping you to stay motivated and consistently improve your craft.
In the end, the key to success in creative writing lies not just in learning, but in putting that knowledge into practice through consistent writing. By choosing the right course and committing to your craft, you’re taking a significant step toward achieving your writing goals. Remember, the path to becoming a skilled writer is a continuous journey – and these courses are excellent companions along the way.
