Whether you are a novice writer or an experienced author looking to sharpen your skills, online writing courses offer an excellent opportunity to learn from experts, improve your craft, and expand your writing abilities. From fiction writing to non-fiction, poetry, and even technical writing, online courses provide writers with the flexibility to study at their own pace while gaining valuable knowledge and feedback. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best online writing courses available for writers of all levels.
1. MasterClass: Writing Courses by Renowned Authors
What It Is: MasterClass offers a variety of writing courses taught by renowned authors, including Neil Gaiman (fiction), Margaret Atwood (writing for television), James Patterson (writing thrillers), and more. These courses provide an insider’s perspective into the writing process of world-class authors, making them perfect for writers who want to learn from the best.
Why It’s Great for Writers:
- Learn from the Pros: Gain insight into the writing process from award-winning authors.
- Wide Variety of Courses: Courses range from fiction writing, screenwriting, and storytelling, to writing for TV.
- Flexibility: All classes are available on-demand, allowing you to learn at your own pace.
Cost: MasterClass offers an annual membership, which provides access to all classes for around $180 per year.
2. Coursera: University-Backed Writing Programs
What It Is: Coursera offers a broad selection of writing courses from top universities and colleges, such as Stanford, the University of Michigan, and the University of Iowa. These courses cover everything from creative writing and storytelling to business writing and technical writing.
Why It’s Great for Writers:
- University-Level Courses: Learn from esteemed professors and professionals.
- Wide Range of Topics: Courses cover a variety of writing genres, including fiction, business, technical, and academic writing.
- Certificates: Upon completion, you can earn certificates that add value to your professional credentials.
Cost: Many courses are free to audit, but you can pay for certificates or specializations that provide deeper, more structured learning.
3. Udemy: Affordable Writing Courses for Every Genre
What It Is: Udemy is an online learning platform that offers thousands of affordable writing courses. These cover everything from creative writing to content writing, blogging, copywriting, and self-publishing.
Why It’s Great for Writers:
- Variety of Genres: There’s a course for almost every writing genre, including fiction, non-fiction, copywriting, and more.
- Affordable: Courses are often on sale, making them very affordable—many start as low as $10–$20.
- Learn at Your Own Pace: You can start and finish courses on your schedule, and lifetime access allows you to revisit the material anytime.
Cost: Course prices vary, but Udemy often offers discounts, with courses typically costing between $10 and $50.
4. Gotham Writers: Writing Workshops for All Genres
What It Is: Gotham Writers offers live, interactive online workshops and writing classes in a wide range of genres, including fiction, memoir, screenwriting, poetry, and business writing. Gotham Writers has been offering writing classes since 1993 and is known for its comprehensive curriculum and experienced instructors.
Why It’s Great for Writers:
- Personalized Feedback: Receive constructive feedback from experienced instructors and peers.
- Focus on Craft: Courses emphasize improving writing skills and developing your unique voice.
- Live Interaction: Online classes include live sessions with instructors, making the learning experience interactive and engaging.
Cost: Prices for online courses range from $249 to $799, depending on the length and focus of the course.
5. The Creative Writing MFA at University of Oxford (Online)
What It Is: The University of Oxford offers an online Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing. This prestigious program combines online learning with in-person residential workshops in Oxford, providing an immersive and intensive writing experience.
Why It’s Great for Writers:
- Prestigious Program: Study at one of the world’s most renowned institutions.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: The MFA program covers a wide range of creative writing forms, including fiction, poetry, and creative non-fiction.
- Peer Interaction: Engage with fellow students and faculty, receiving high-quality feedback and critique.
Cost: The MFA program is a significant financial commitment, with tuition fees around £16,000 per year (approximately $20,000 USD).
6. CreativeLive: Free and Paid Writing Classes
What It Is: CreativeLive offers a variety of writing courses for both beginners and seasoned professionals. With courses ranging from story development to creative writing and self-publishing, CreativeLive allows you to learn from experienced writers and instructors.
Why It’s Great for Writers:
- Variety of Courses: Learn about storytelling, self-publishing, writing techniques, and more.
- Free Live Classes: CreativeLive offers free live streaming of classes on various topics.
- Professional Instructors: Courses are taught by industry professionals who provide insight into the writing business.
Cost: Many classes are free, but you can also pay for premium content, which typically ranges from $29 to $99 per course.
7. Write 2B Read: Self-Publishing and Writing Craft
What It Is: Write 2B Read offers both self-paced courses and live workshops for writers. Their focus is on writing, editing, and self-publishing, which is ideal for writers who are interested in taking the indie publishing route.
Why It’s Great for Writers:
- Self-Publishing Focus: Ideal for writers interested in publishing their own work.
- Writing Craft and Marketing: Courses combine writing tips with strategies for marketing and selling your work.
- Community and Feedback: Engage with a supportive community of writers and receive feedback on your work.
Cost: Some courses are free, while others range from $30 to $100.
8. The Writer’s Workshop: Writing Courses and Manuscript Evaluation
What It Is: The Writer’s Workshop offers specialized online writing courses that cater to various genres, including fiction, memoir, and poetry. They also offer manuscript critiques and in-depth workshops.
Why It’s Great for Writers:
- Personalized Manuscript Feedback: Get detailed critiques on your manuscript from experienced instructors.
- Genre-Specific Courses: Take courses that focus on specific genres and aspects of writing, such as pacing, character development, and plot structure.
- Small Class Sizes: Courses are typically kept small, ensuring individual attention and in-depth feedback.
Cost: Prices vary depending on the course, but workshops usually cost between $300 and $800.
9. Scribophile: Writing Community and Critique Exchange
What It Is: Scribophile is an online writing community that provides feedback and critique exchange for writers. You can share your work with fellow members and receive constructive critiques, and you’ll be able to critique others’ work in return.
Why It’s Great for Writers:
- Peer Critiques: Get detailed feedback on your writing from other writers.
- Writing Groups: Join genre-specific writing groups and workshops to connect with like-minded individuals.
- Free and Paid Membership: Scribophile has a free version, but a premium membership offers additional features, such as more critiques and feedback.
Cost: Free, with optional premium membership at $9/month or $60/year.
10. Writer’s Digest University: Writing Courses for All Levels
What It Is: Writer’s Digest University offers a wide range of online writing courses designed for beginner, intermediate, and advanced writers. Courses cover fiction writing, non-fiction writing, blogging, and even writing for specific media like television and film.
Why It’s Great for Writers:
- Wide Range of Topics: Courses cover a variety of writing styles and formats.
- In-Depth Learning: Access to comprehensive courses that offer step-by-step guidance.
- Expert Instructors: Courses are taught by experienced writers and industry professionals.
Cost: Individual courses range from $49 to $300, with ongoing discounts and promotions.
Online writing courses are an invaluable resource for writers of all levels. Whether you’re looking to refine your craft, master a new genre, or gain insight into the publishing world, these courses provide a wealth of knowledge and guidance. From prestigious programs like the University of Oxford’s MFA to more affordable options on platforms like Coursera and Udemy, you can find a course that fits your goals, budget, and schedule. By committing to learning and growing as a writer, you can unlock new opportunities and achieve your writing aspirations.
