Are you looking to improve your creative writing skills but don’t have the time or resources to attend in-person classes? You’re not alone. In this post, you can check out a list of some of the best creative writing classes that you can take from home. Whether you’re interested in fiction, non-fiction, poetry, game writing or any other form of writing, these classes offer the flexibility and expertise to help you unleash your creativity.
Online learning and educational platforms have made creative writing classes more accessible than ever. These virtual sessions provide the opportunity to learn from industry professionals and experienced instructors. Certain classes are better than others, but some are worth it for the valuable insights and personalised feedback you’ll get.
More importantly, creative writing classes like these give you the chance to connect with like-minded writers from around the world. That’s worth its weight in gold, as writing can be an isolating line of work at times. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn the fundamentals or an experienced writer seeking to refine your skills, there’s a course out there for you.
Benefits of taking creative writing classes from home
There are many upsides to taking creative writing classes from home. Primarily, you’ll get the convenience and flexibility of working around your own schedule. Many of these courses feature pre-recorded lectures as well as live sessions. This means you can fit your learning around your lifestyle, rather than the other way around. Whether you’re a full-time professional or a busy parent, online classes allow you to pursue your passion for writing without sacrificing other aspects of your life.
Another major advantage is the variety of creative writing classes available. Online platforms offer a wide range of writing-related topics, allowing you to explore different genres and styles. Additionally, many online classes provide you with personalised feedback from instructors, which can be invaluable for improving your writing skills.
Top online creative writing classes
In addition to well-known platforms such as Udemy, there are many other online spaces where you can find top-notch creative writing classes. Coursera, for example, partners with leading universities and institutions to provide high-quality courses taught by experts in the field. You’ll also be given assignments and quizzes to complete that will measure the strength of your understanding.
There’s also Skillshare, which offers several creative writing classes taught by industry professionals. Skillshare is known for its interactive and hands-on approach, allowing you to apply what you’ve learned through practical exercises and projects. The platform also offers a supportive community where you can share your work and receive feedback from fellow writers.
Choosing the right online creative writing class
With so many options available, choosing the right online creative writing class can be overwhelming. Here are a few things to consider when making your decision.
- Course content – look for a course that aligns with your interests and goals. Whether you’re interested in fiction, non-fiction, poetry, or screenwriting, make sure the course covers the topics you want to learn.
- Instructor expertise – research the instructor’s background and credentials. Check if they have relevant experience in their field and if their teaching style resonates with you.
- Student reviews – read reviews and testimonials from previous students to get an idea of their experience. Explore feedback on the course content, instructor support, and the overall learning experience.
- Course format – consider the format of the course. Do you prefer pre-recorded video lectures or live sessions? Are there opportunities for interactive discussions and feedback?
- Cost and value – compare the cost of the course with the value you expect to receive. Only you can decide if it’s worth it, but consider the value of the course’s duration, access to course materials, and instructor support.
BBC Maestro
Brought to you by (unsurprisingly) the BBC, BBC Maestro is an online platform offering specialised masterclasses taught by industry experts. It has a range of creative writing classes taught by renowned authors, screenwriters, poets and playwrights. These particular courses provide a unique opportunity to learn from professionals who have achieved major success in their respective fields.
BBC Maestro courses are intended to be immersive and interactive, although the video classes are pre-recorded with the course expert. In addition to these lessons, you’ll have access to writing exercises and feedback sessions. There are no deadlines, meaning the class content can be taken on a self-directed schedule.
You can purchase an annual subscription to the service or buy one course to keep for life. Check out some of their current creative writing classes to find out more.
The Narrative Department
If you’re interested in narrative design, you’ll want to check out The Narrative Department. I’ve taken this Masterclass course and would absolutely recommend it to anyone interested in writing for games.
Developed and taught by industry legend Susan O’Connor, The Narrative Department’s online courses will help you develop your skills and build your confidence as a game writer. Whether you’re interested in writing for video games, interactive fiction, or transmedia storytelling, the TND Masterclass course provides relatable and hands-on insights into the art of crafting compelling narratives.
You’ll also get to work alongside experienced professionals who have worked on notable projects in the games industry. In addition to the course content, which provides practical advice, assignments and live co-working sessions, you’ll gain insight through plenty of peer review. One of the best things about The Narrative Department is the community that you’ll become a part of after graduating.
The course is definitely an investment, but if you’re serious about writing for games, then it’s absolutely worth it.
FutureLearn
FutureLearn is another online learning platform that offers a range of high-quality creative writing courses. They partner with leading universities and cultural institutions to provide high-quality curriculum content. Many of these courses also offer certification from the relevant institution, which can be very useful for those looking to gain professional accreditation.
Creative writing classes at FutureLearn cover various aspects of literature and fiction, alongside creative writing-adjacent courses such as screenwriting, copywriting and poetry. I’ve taken a few FutureLearn courses myself and find their approach really accessible and flexible. Some are even free, so it’s definitely worth checking out what’s available.
FutureLearn also incorporates social learning. Courses often include discussion forums where you can engage with fellow learners and share your work for feedback. This collaborative learning environment can be particularly beneficial for writers looking to connect with a community of like-minded individuals.
Udemy
Udemy is one of the most popular online learning platforms, and it offers a variety of creative writing classes. Courses are easily accessible and are tailored for writers of all skill levels. The platform provides a vast library of courses designed and taught by industry professionals.
However, it’s definitely worth taking your time to browse what’s on offer. Checking the reviews of previous students on a course is vital, as you want to ensure you’re getting the right kind of learning from your class. You can sometimes find some real gems in there, so don’t be afraid to do some digging!
Undoubtedly. Udemy’s flexibility is a big advantage. You can access course materials at your own pace, so your learning fits around your schedule. Additionally, most courses come with lifetime access, so you can revisit the content whenever you need a refresher. Udemy also lets you interact with instructors and fellow learners, creating a supportive community to enhance your learning experience.
MasterClass
MasterClass gives learners access to masterclasses taught by world-renowned experts in their fields. While not exclusively focused on creative writing, MasterClass offers courses taught by acclaimed authors such as Margaret Atwood, Neil Gaiman, and R. L. Stine. There are also some fantastic options for those interested in screenwriting and writing for television.
These classes provide a unique opportunity to learn from literary giants who have achieved massive success in the writing world. The classes themselves include a combination of video lessons, writing assignments with an in-depth workbook and feedback. If you’re looking to learn directly from some of the world’s greatest storytellers, then MasterClass could be the best fit for you.
Things to consider about creative writing classes
It’s vital to do your research if you’re thinking about taking an online creative writing class from home. There are plenty to choose from, and plenty of price ranges to think about too. Ultimately, you should focus on the area of writing you want to improve the most. That’s where you should start looking for the right kind of tuition.
Taking creative writing classes from home has never been easier or more accessible. However you decide to get started, remember to choose a course that aligns with your interests and goals. Always consider factors like instructor expertise, course format, and cost when making your choice.
By investing in your creative writing education, you’re investing in your own growth as a writer. So, if you’re serious about improving your craft, a creative writing class could be just the thing to help you kickstart your confidence and build a strong writing technique.
If you’ve found this post helpful, I’d love it if you gave it a share or a pin on Pinterest. You might also enjoy some of my creative writing resources, such as this character development template or these posts on worldbuilding.
