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Creative Writing Courses

Creative writing courses can help you learn narrative structure, character development, dialogue crafting, and the art of revision. You can build skills in creating vivid imagery, developing unique voices, and exploring various genres such as fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction. Many courses introduce tools like writing software, editing applications, and platforms for sharing your work, which can enhance your writing process and help you connect with a broader audience.


Popular Creative Writing Courses and Certifications


  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    W

    Wesleyan University

    Creative Writing

    Skills you'll gain: Storytelling, Peer Review, Writing and Editing, Writing, Editing, Proofreading, Storyboarding, Content Creation, Constructive Feedback, Persistence, Professionalism, Creativity

    4.6
    Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
    ·
    6.3K reviews

    Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    U

    University of Michigan

    Good with Words: Writing and Editing

    Skills you'll gain: Writing and Editing, Editing, Constructive Feedback, Concision, Writing, Organizational Skills, Proofreading, Storytelling, Productivity, Planning, Detail Oriented, Time Management, Brainstorming, Content Creation, Overcoming Obstacles, Resourcefulness, Lifelong Learning, Decision Making, Critical Thinking, Creativity

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    2.6K reviews

    Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    U

    University of California, Irvine

    Academic English: Writing

    Skills you'll gain: Grammar, Peer Review, Editing, Writing, Proofreading, Organizational Skills, Research, Report Writing, Research Methodologies, Critical Thinking, English Language, Writing and Editing, Style Guides

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    23K reviews

    Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    M

    Michigan State University

    Write Your First Novel

    Skills you'll gain: Peer Review, Storytelling, Editing, Proofreading

    4.3
    Rating, 4.3 out of 5 stars
    ·
    373 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    W

    Wesleyan University

    Memoir and Personal Essay: Write About Yourself

    Skills you'll gain: Storytelling, Writing and Editing, Content Creation, Journals, Writing, Organizational Skills, Editing, Personal Development, Self-Awareness, Overcoming Obstacles, Creativity, English Language, Detail Oriented

    4.4
    Rating, 4.4 out of 5 stars
    ·
    433 reviews

    Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    C

    California Institute of the Arts

    Sharpened Visions: A Poetry Workshop

    Skills you'll gain: Editing, Peer Review, Music, Creativity

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    1.9K reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

What brings you to Coursera today?

  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    I

    IESE Business School

    The Art of Storytelling

    Skills you'll gain: Storytelling, Public Speaking, Oral Expression, Presentations, Verbal Communication Skills, Persuasive Communication, Content Creation, Drive Engagement, Writing, Non-Verbal Communication, Active Listening

    4.6
    Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
    ·
    1.1K reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

  • Next level skills. New Year savings.

    Save on Coursera Plus
  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    I

    Imperial College London

    Creative Thinking: Techniques and Tools for Success

    Skills you'll gain: Creative Thinking, Brainstorming, Ideation, Creativity, Cognitive flexibility, Problem Solving, Collaboration

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    5.2K reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    U

    University of Michigan

    Writing and Editing: Word Choice and Word Order

    Skills you'll gain: Writing, Storytelling, Editing, Detail Oriented, Resourcefulness, Decision Making, Creativity, Communication Strategies, Professionalism, Time Management

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    2K reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    U

    University of Michigan

    Writing and Editing: Structure and Organization

    Skills you'll gain: Writing and Editing, Editing, Writing, Organizational Skills, Productivity, Concision, Time Management, Storytelling, Content Creation, Lifelong Learning, Professional Development, Communication Strategies, Critical Thinking, Creativity

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    567 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

  • Status: New
    New
    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    S

    Skillshare

    Creative Essay Writing: Explore the Personal & Powerful

    Skills you'll gain: Writing, Writing and Editing, Storytelling, Honesty, Journalism, Journals, Editing, Content Creation, Personal Development, Persistence, Lifelong Learning, Self-Awareness, Investigation, Self-Motivation, Proofreading, Self-Discipline, Creativity, Resilience, Mindfulness, Peer Review

    Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: New
    New
    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    S

    Skillshare

    Creative Writing: Crafting Personal Essays with Impact

    Skills you'll gain: Writing, Writing and Editing, Honesty, Storytelling, Journals, Editing, Content Creation, Personal Development, Investigation, Self-Awareness

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

What brings you to Coursera today?

Searches related to creative writing

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In summary, here are 10 of our most popular creative writing courses

  • Creative Writing: Wesleyan University
  • Good with Words: Writing and Editing: University of Michigan
  • Academic English: Writing: University of California, Irvine
  • Write Your First Novel: Michigan State University
  • Memoir and Personal Essay: Write About Yourself: Wesleyan University
  • Sharpened Visions: A Poetry Workshop: California Institute of the Arts
  • The Art of Storytelling: IESE Business School
  • Creative Thinking: Techniques and Tools for Success: Imperial College London
  • Writing and Editing: Word Choice and Word Order: University of Michigan
  • Writing and Editing: Structure and Organization: University of Michigan

Skills you can learn in Business Essentials

Analytics (37)
Presentation (33)
Modeling (29)
Business Analytics (27)
Language (26)
Microsoft Excel (26)
Writing (26)
Speech (18)
Plan (17)
Business Communication (16)
Decision-making (16)
Leadership (15)

Frequently Asked Questions about Creative Writing

Creative writing is a form of artistic expression that encompasses a variety of genres, including fiction, poetry, screenwriting, and creative non-fiction. It allows individuals to convey their thoughts, emotions, and ideas in imaginative ways. The importance of creative writing lies in its ability to foster communication, enhance critical thinking, and encourage self-expression. It serves not only as a means of storytelling but also as a tool for personal reflection and cultural commentary, making it a vital skill in both personal and professional contexts.‎

A background in creative writing can open doors to various career paths. Common job opportunities include roles such as novelist, poet, screenwriter, copywriter, content creator, and editor. Additionally, creative writing skills are valuable in fields like marketing, advertising, and public relations, where storytelling and persuasive communication are essential. Many professionals also find that creative writing enhances their ability to think critically and innovate, making them more competitive in diverse job ma‎

To excel in creative writing, several key skills are essential. These include strong language proficiency, an understanding of narrative structure, character development, and the ability to create vivid settings. Additionally, honing one's voice and style is crucial for effective storytelling. Writers should also develop skills in editing and revising their work, as well as the ability to accept and incorporate feedback. Engaging in regular writing practice and reading widely can further enhance these skills.‎

There are numerous online courses available for those interested in creative writing. Notable options include the Creative Writing Specialization, which covers various aspects of writing, and specific courses like Creative Writing: The Craft of Character and Creative Writing: The Craft of Plot. These courses provide structured learning paths and valuable insights from experienced instructors.‎

Yes. You can start learning creative writing on Coursera for free in two ways:

  1. Preview the first module of many creative writing courses at no cost. This includes video lessons, readings, graded assignments, and Coursera Coach (where available).
  2. Start a 7-day free trial for Specializations or Coursera Plus. This gives you full access to all course content across eligible programs within the timeframe of your trial.

If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in creative writing, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.‎

Learning creative writing involves a combination of practice, study, and feedback. Start by reading a variety of genres to understand different styles and techniques. Engage in regular writing exercises to develop your voice and skills. Consider enrolling in online courses or workshops that provide structured guidance and expert feedback. Joining writing groups or communities can also be beneficial, as sharing your work and receiving constructive criticism can accelerate your growth as a writer.‎

Creative writing courses typically cover a range of topics, including narrative structure, character development, setting and description, and style. Many courses also emphasize the importance of voice and tone, as well as the revision process. Specific courses may focus on particular genres, such as fiction, poetry, or personal essays, allowing learners to explore various forms of creative expression and find their unique writing style.‎

For training and upskilling employees, courses like the Creative Writing Specialization can be particularly beneficial. These courses help enhance communication skills, foster creativity, and improve critical thinking. Organizations can leverage creative writing training to encourage innovative thinking and effective storytelling among their teams, ultimately leading to improved collaboration and engagement in the workplace.‎

This FAQ content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

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