Best Online Creative Writing Courses to Elevate Your Craft

Best online creative writing courses to elevate your craft

Did you know that even established authors like Stephen King, known for his mastery in storytelling, faced rejection before achieving success? His debut novel 'Carrie' was initially turned down by several publishers.

This fact highlights the challenges writers often encounter on their path to recognition. So, let's explore a realm where creative writing courses unleash the ability to craft compelling stories with no limits. These courses serve as valuable guides, providing practical insights and knowledge to help aspiring writers navigate the complexities of the writing landscape.

Short description

In this article, our curious college essay writer will explore the realm of expressive storytelling, where they break down the fundamentals, spotlight the best online creative writing courses, and outline potential career opportunities.

From laying the groundwork to practical techniques, our journey provides clear insight and inspiration. Navigate the diverse landscapes of narrative expression alongside us and discover a curated selection of courses designed to enhance your storytelling skills.

What is creative writing and why is it important

Creative writing is the art of crafting narratives that engage, inspire, and communicate ideas. Unlike formal or technical writing, it allows for freedom of expression and imaginative exploration. It encompasses various forms, such as fiction, poetry, and personal essays.

Why is it Important?

Serves as a unique avenue for individuals to express their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. It is a powerful tool for self-discovery and communication. Refines communication skills by encouraging writers to convey ideas in compelling ways. This proficiency proves valuable in both personal and professional spheres.

The creation of characters and exploration of diverse narratives fosters empathy. Writers, through their work, develop a deeper understanding of different perspectives and cultures. Crafting a story involves strategic planning, organization, and creative problem-solving. These elements contribute to the development of critical thinking skills and analytical abilities.

Examples:

  • Fictional worlds: Writing a short story or novel allows the author to build entire worlds, shaping characters and plots that captivate readers. J.K. Rowling's 'Harry Potter' series is a prime example of creative storytelling's ability to transport readers to magical realms.
  • Poetic expression: Poetry is a form of expressive storytelling that distills emotions and ideas into a condensed, rhythmic language. The works of poets like Maya Angelou and Langston Hughes showcase the power of poetic expression.
  • Personal narratives: Crafting personal essays or memoirs enables writers to share their own experiences. Cheryl Strayed's 'Wild' is an impactful memoir that explores personal growth through a transformative journey.

Best online creative writing courses

Now, let's level up your writing skills with top creative writing courses. From building conscious crafting habits to creating a professional portfolio, these courses offer practical assignments for writers at any stage. Whether you're a beginner or honing your skills, dive into the curated selection below to boost your unique storytelling abilities.

Masterclass - Margaret Atwood Teaches Creative Writing

Masterclass - Margaret Atwood teaches creative writing

Price:
$10/month
(billed annually)
Duration:
4 hours (23 lessons)
Content:
Comprehensive creative writing exploration

Course description:

For seasoned writers seeking to refine their craft, the 'Margaret Atwood Teaches Creative Writing' Masterclass stands as an exceptional opportunity. In this one of the most comprehensive online creative writing courses, Margaret Atwood, the renowned author of 'The Handmaid's Tale,' imparts advanced insights through 23 deliberately-paced video lessons, totaling approximately four hours of content.

Studying format:

A distinctive feature of this creative writing course is its interactive nature. Participants gain access to a class workbook, incorporating supplementary writing assignments for each lesson and valuable resources for writers. The course structure is user-friendly, with lessons divided into three to five sections, each lasting around 10 minutes.

The initial 16 lessons delve into fundamental elements of writing, such as story and plot, structure, characters, and point of view. Lessons 17 through 23 pivot toward the business side of writing, exploring topics like publishing strategies and navigating different genres.

Additional information:

With a single membership fee, Masterclass provides access not only to this course but to over 180 classes, inclusive of audio-only lessons, offline viewing, downloadable instructor guides, and regular additions to the course catalog. Priced at $10 per month, billed annually at $120, a Masterclass membership ensures a wealth of resources for continuous learning. Additionally, Masterclass stands behind its offerings with a 30-day money-back guarantee on all subscriptions, reaffirming its commitment to the quality and satisfaction of its members.

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Coursera - Creative Writing Specialization

Coursera - creative writing specialization

Price:
Not specified
Duration:
Flexible, 4 courses
Content:
Vibrant story composition
Start Date:
Flexible

Course description:

Being one of the best creative writing courses, this program is crafted for aspiring writers and established novelists alike, offering a comprehensive exploration of the techniques used by skilled authors to craft compelling narratives.

Studying format:

Throughout four courses, designed to be taken in any order, you'll master the intricacies of composing vibrant stories with memorable characters set against captivating backdrops and written in a fresh, descriptive style. The experiential aspect comes to life as you analyze and constructively evaluate peer writing, refining your critical eye and honing your ability to provide constructive feedback.

The culmination of the Specialization is the Capstone project, where you'll draft, rewrite, and complete a substantial original story in the genre of your choosing. Whether you're revisiting a finished novel or nurturing a concept that has lingered for years, this program equips you with the tools to achieve your writing goals.

Additional information:

As a bonus, they offer significant discounts upon completing the first assignment. You'll receive up to an 80% discount from Write-Bros, a 30% discount on your first purchase from Scrivener for writing software, and a 30% off membership at the online writing community Scribophile.

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The Novelry - Writing for Children

The Novelry - writing for children

Price:
$365 (Classic) - $1,999 (Book in a Year)
Duration:
Classic (self-paced), Book in a Year (1 year)
Content:
Tailored for children's writers
Start Date:
Self-paced

Course description:

The Novelry presents a range of the best online creative writing courses tailored for children's writers, catering to diverse needs and aspirations. The Classic Course Box Set, priced at $365, empowers you to progress through 45 lessons at your own pace. For those aiming for a comprehensive journey, The Book in a Year Plan, available at $1,999, guides you through planning, creating, and writing a children's novel, culminating in publication within a year. This premium plan features nine one-on-one sessions with a dedicated children's fiction tutor, providing invaluable support for emerging writers.

Studying format:

The interactive platform facilitates engagement, allowing you to pose questions and share comments online. Each class is designed for convenience, spanning 15-20 minutes, and the recommended writing commitment is one hour daily. The platform seamlessly tracks your progress and offers constructive feedback throughout your writing journey.

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CreativeLive - Writing Your Story

CreativeLive - writing your story

Price:
$11/month;
$89 standalone
Duration:
5 hours 19 minutes (26 lessons)
Content:
Memoir writing essentials
Start Date:
Self-paced

Course description:

This creative writing course, priced at $11/month as part of a pass granting access to 1500+ classes or $89 for a standalone purchase, unfolds over 26 lessons ranging from 5-30 minutes each. Maynard's guidance covers essential aspects of memoir writing, from determining your narrative to navigating the writing process and handling criticism and rejection. If you resonate with Maynard's teaching style, you'll be pleased to discover additional courses taught by her, including 'How to Write a Full-Length Memoir' and 'How to Write a Personal Essay.

Studying format:

Designed for flexibility, the course allows you to progress at your own pace, with a total time commitment of five hours and 19 minutes. No prerequisites are required, making it accessible to writers of all levels. While a verified certificate of completion is not included, the wealth of knowledge gained under Maynard's tutelage is a valuable takeaway for aspiring memoirists.

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LitReactor - Writing the Weird

LitReactor - writing the weird

Price:
$350
Duration:
4 weeks
Content:
Crafting surreal and fantastic literature

Course description:

This limited-enrollment course, capped at 16 students, delves into surreal, fantastic, and outright bizarre literature, emphasizing the discovery and crafting of human elements that distinguish a compelling story.

Studying format:

Over four engaging weeks, the course unfolds across four key topics: humanity, structure, setting, and resolution. Participants explore the works of notable authors like Kelly Link and Matt Bell, discovering how traditional narratives can serve as a springboard for exploring innovative and speculative fiction. Each week, students receive writing assignments, providing opportunities for critique from both Breukelaar and classmates. In the concluding week, participants synthesize their learning by developing a complete story by applying the insights gained throughout the course.

Additional information:

Priced at $350, this course offers a unique and immersive experience, although it might not be the course to secure a job promotion. However, its potential for sheer enjoyment and creative exploration makes it one of the finest creative writing courses online.

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Gotham Writers Workshop - Fiction Writing Level 1

Gotham Writers Workshop - fiction writing level 1

Price:
$25 (Registration);
$409 (Online);
$379 (Returning);
$1,745 (One-on-one)
Duration:
10 weeks
Content:
Personalized attention, text-based
Start Date:
Self-paced

Course description:

Another on our list of top creative writing courses, Gotham Writers Workshop, renowned for its presence in the NYC region, extends its acclaimed classes to a global audience through well-regarded online offerings. Level I online courses, including the popular Fiction Writing I, prioritize personalized attention with a maximum of 16 students per class. As you progress to Level II and III classes, maintaining an intimate setting, you'll find a continuation of the Fiction Writing series with a maximum of 14 students.

Studying format:

The 10-week workshops provide flexibility, allowing you to access classes and complete exercises at your convenience throughout the week. Unlike video-based lessons, Gotham Writers Workshop employs a text-based format enriched with supplementary materials, including reading lists and podcasts, enhancing the depth of your learning experience.

Additional information:

Pricing options include a registration fee of $25, online creative writing classes at $409 and a reduced rate of $379 for returning students. For a more personalized experience, one-on-one instruction is available at $1,745. With no prerequisites required, the modified flex time schedule ensures adaptability while maintaining a structured completion timeframe.

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Ready to turn mere thoughts into majestic tales?

Unleash the quirk in your quill and order your creative writing adventure now!

Sprinkle some literary magic
One Story - Crafting Your Writing Life

One Story - crafting your writing life

Price:
$65;
Patron Price: $55
Duration:
4 days
Content:
Shaping daily writing habits
Start Date:
Dec 7-10

Course description:

Tailored for writers of all experience levels, this one of the top-notch сreative writing courses encompasses crucial aspects such as selecting and safeguarding your dedicated writing time, fostering kindness towards yourself and your work, strategic focus, and more. Through a blend of guided journaling prompts, video craft talks, written lectures, and insightful quotes from renowned writers and thinkers, you'll uncover and implement your personalized best practices.

Additional information:

You can join Ann Napolitano from Dec 7 to 10th for an immersive learning experience that transcends the traditional writing workshop. The instructor's valuable insights promise to elevate your writing life, making it not only a practical investment but an enriching one. Secure your spot at the price of $65, with a special patron price of $55 available for a limited time.

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Sackett Street Writers - VIRTUAL Manuscript Generator I

Sackett Street Writers - VIRTUAL manuscript generator I

Price:
$1050.00
Duration:
Bi-weekly sessions
Content:
Manuscript development
Start Date:
Dec 6, 2023

Course description:

Starting on Dec 6, 2023, under the guidance of instructor Heather Aimee O'Neill, this Manuscript Generator workshop invites novelists, memoirists, and writers to explore story and essay collections. Conducted via video every other Wednesday from 7-9 pm EST, this class requires a fee of $1050.00.

Studying format:

Designed for those who haven't participated in previous Manuscript Generator online writing classes, the workshop encourages writers to join without a mandatory writing sample, although it is recommended. Participants will submit up to 5,000 words of their manuscript bi-weekly, receiving written feedback from the instructor. Additionally, writers have the opportunity for constructive input from peers on various elements, including project synopses, scene exercises, and manuscript openings.

The bi-weekly two-hour sessions offer a platform for project discussions, shared group writing time, and engagement with writing prompts. As a unique feature, the workshop includes a 30-minute one-on-one consultation with the instructor at the course's conclusion, providing an in-depth review of your manuscript.

Additional information:

Being one of the best online creative writing courses, this program is open to writers who have completed one or more chapters of a novel or memoir, as well as those working on short story and essay collections; this course is tailored for individuals with some writing and workshopping experience.

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Reedsy Learning - Understanding Point of View

Reedsy Learning - understanding point of view

Price:
Free
Duration:
10 days
Content:
Technical POV intricacies

Course description:

Led by TEDx speaker and author Gabriela Pereira, this course zeroes in on the technical intricacies of point of view—a common challenge for writers in their early stages. The best part? It's among the best free online writing courses that is conveniently delivered to your inbox over a 10-day period.

Studying format:

This swift and accessible course features brief five-minute lessons, providing a quick yet immersive exploration of the nuances involved in establishing the right point of view in your creative writing. Pereira guides you through each primary POV—first, second, and third person—using practical writing exercises to ensure a thorough understanding and mastery of each perspective.

Throughout the course, you'll delve into key topics, such as the distinctions between third-person limited and third-person omniscient, the strengths and weaknesses of the second person, and the art of handling multiple points of view, including epistolary and journal forms.

Additional information:

To enroll, simply provide your name, email address, and time zone, allowing Pereira to deliver each lecture promptly to your inbox. With just a quick five-minute lesson each morning, this course is designed to seamlessly integrate into your routine, making it an excellent choice for complete beginners eager to cultivate a daily writing practice.

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La Trobe University - Creative Nonfiction

La Trobe University - creative nonfiction

Price:
$2,040
Duration:
12 weeks
Content:
Study of creative nonfiction
Start Date:
Mar 4, 2024
(others available)

Course description:

Explore the art of creative nonfiction in this dynamic 12-week online course, offering a fully immersive study experience. Priced at $2,040, the program introduces key forms of creative nonfiction and provides essential tools to master effective writing. With a unique blend of writing and reading experiments across genres like memoir, travel, reportage, and history, this course encourages critical engagement with nonfiction concepts.

Led by industry experts, including live sessions and active participation, the program delves into the nuances of narrator and narrative voice, authenticity, objectivity, truth, and the complex relationship between self and others, places, nature, and identity. Students will gain valuable insights into form, genre, humanness, memory, and the interplay of pasts and presents.

Studying format:

With a 100% online assessment format, this course requires prior study and is designed for those seeking a deeper understanding of creative nonfiction. Live sessions add a collaborative dimension, enhancing the overall learning experience.

Additional information:

This level 2 subject provides a comprehensive exploration of the intricacies of nonfiction writing, making it one of the best creative writing courses online and an ideal choice for individuals ready to elevate their writing skills.

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Creative writing career paths

Proficiency in creative writing opens up a diverse array of career opportunities for individuals seeking to channel their literary talents into professional avenues. Here are some compelling career paths for those with a passion for creative writing:

  • Content Creation and Copywriting: Engage with businesses and marketing agencies to create compelling and persuasive content. This includes crafting impactful ad copy, website content, and social media campaigns.
  • Editorial Roles: Work as an editor for publishing houses, literary magazines, or online platforms. Editorial positions involve refining manuscripts, providing feedback to authors, and shaping the overall narrative of written works.
  • Freelance Writing: Embrace the freedom of freelancing by offering your writing services across various platforms. This can include contributing articles, blog posts, and creative pieces for diverse clients.
  • Technical Writing: Dive into the world of technical communication by translating complex information into user-friendly documents. Technical writers are crucial for industries such as technology, healthcare, and finance.
  • Screenwriting: Penning scripts for television, film, or online platforms allows writers to bring stories to life through visual mediums. Successful screenwriters have the ability to create captivating narratives tailored for the screen.
  • Teaching and Education: Share your passion for creative writing by becoming an educator. Work at schools, universities, or through online platforms, guiding aspiring writers in honing their craft.
  • Content Strategy: Collaborate with businesses to develop comprehensive content strategies that align with their brand. Content strategists blend creativity with marketing expertise to create impactful campaigns.
  • Publishing: Beyond writing, pursue a career in the publishing industry. Roles such as literary agent, acquisitions editor, or publishing consultant involve curating and bringing diverse voices to the forefront.
  • Authorship: The most traditional path involves becoming a published author. Whether in fiction, nonfiction, or poetry, published authors have the opportunity to share their unique perspectives with a broad audience.
  • Social Media Management: Leverage your creativity in managing and curating content for social media platforms. This role is crucial for maintaining a brand's online presence and engaging with diverse audiences.

Sum up

In a world where creativity knows no bounds, enrolling in the best online creative writing courses transforms a career in expressive storytelling and hones your creative writing skills into an odyssey of imagination. It's not just about words on a page; it's a passport to realms where stories unfold in myriad ways. From crafting narratives to shaping brand identities, the journey of a creative writer transcends traditional boundaries, offering a kaleidoscope of possibilities. So, step into the realm of endless stories, where every word becomes a brushstroke painting, a unique professional canvas.

Thinking that your story deserves its own standing ovation?

Then, order your creative writing now and grab your creativity by the metaphorical horns!

Let the ink flow