About This Course
Whether you've never written creatively before or you've dabbled but want more structure, this course provides a comprehensive introduction to the craft of creative writing. You'll learn fundamental techniques whilst developing your own unique voice and style.
Through a combination of theory, analysis, and hands-on practice, you'll explore the elements that make stories work: compelling characters, authentic dialogue, vivid settings, and engaging plots. Each module builds on the previous one, creating a natural progression from basic concepts to more sophisticated techniques.
What You'll Learn
- Understanding narrative structure and how stories are organised
- Creating three-dimensional characters with authentic motivations
- Writing dialogue that reveals character and advances plot
- Developing your narrative voice and point of view
- Building vivid settings and using sensory details effectively
- Exploring different genres and their conventions
- Revising and editing your work with a critical eye
- Giving and receiving constructive feedback
Course Curriculum
The course is divided into eight modules, each focusing on a specific aspect of creative writing. You'll complete reading assignments, writing exercises, and receive personalised feedback on your work.
Module 1: Finding Your Voice
Explore what makes writing distinctive and begin developing your own voice through freewriting and reflective exercises.
Module 2: Story Fundamentals
Learn the building blocks of narrative including conflict, tension, and resolution. Analyse how published stories create and sustain reader interest.
Module 3: Character Development
Discover techniques for creating believable, complex characters. Learn how character drives plot and how to reveal character through action and dialogue.
Module 4: Dialogue and Voice
Master the art of writing authentic dialogue. Understand how voice reveals character and how to balance dialogue with narrative.
Module 5: Setting and Atmosphere
Learn to create vivid settings that enhance your story. Explore the use of sensory details and how setting can function as more than backdrop.
Module 6: Plot and Structure
Understand different plot structures and learn how to organise your narrative for maximum impact. Explore pacing and scene construction.
Module 7: Genre Exploration
Examine different genres and their conventions. Experiment with writing in multiple genres to discover what resonates with you.
Module 8: Revision and Polish
Learn effective revision strategies. Develop skills for editing your work at both macro and micro levels.
Who Should Take This Course
This course is ideal for:
- Complete beginners who want to learn creative writing in a structured way
- Casual writers looking to develop their skills more seriously
- Professionals who want to incorporate storytelling into their work
- Anyone interested in exploring creative expression through writing
No previous writing experience is required. All you need is curiosity, commitment, and a willingness to experiment.
Course Format
This is a self-paced online course. Once you enrol, you'll have access to all course materials for 12 months. You can work through the modules at your own speed, though we recommend completing one module per week for optimal learning.
Each module includes video lessons, reading assignments from published works, writing exercises, and feedback opportunities. You'll submit assignments for instructor feedback and participate in peer review when you're ready.
Time Commitment
Most students complete the course in 8-12 weeks, dedicating approximately 5-7 hours per week to study and practice. This includes watching lessons, completing readings, working on writing exercises, and revising based on feedback.