What are the best courses available for creative writing?

There are numerous online and in-person courses available for creative writing, catering to various skill levels and interests. The "best" course depends on your specific needs and preferences. Here are some highly regarded creative writing courses offered by reputable platforms and institutions:

1. MasterClass - Various Instructors:

   • MasterClass offers courses by well-known authors such as Margaret Atwood, Neil Gaiman, Joyce Carol Oates, and others. Each instructor provides insights into their unique approaches to writing.

2. Coursera - Creative Writing Specialization (Wesleyan University):

   • This specialization includes courses like "The Craft of Plot" and "The Craft of Character." It covers various aspects of fiction writing and is taught by instructors from Wesleyan University.

3. Udemy - Writing with Flair: How to Become an Exceptional Writer (Shani Raja):

   • Taught by Shani Raja, a former editor for The Wall Street Journal, this Udemy course focuses on improving writing skills and enhancing clarity.

4. The Gotham Writers' Workshop - Creative Writing Courses:

   • Gotham Writers' Workshop offers a variety of online creative writing courses covering fiction, nonfiction, novel writing, and more. They provide structured and interactive learning environments.

5. University of Iowa's International Writing Program (IWP) - How Writers Write Fiction:

   • This MOOC from the University of Iowa is available on the IWP's platform and features video lectures, readings, and discussions on the craft of fiction writing.

6. The Writers Studio:

   • The Writers Studio offers online creative writing workshops with a focus on the "process" method of creative writing. They have courses for beginners as well as more advanced writers.

7. CreativeLive - Writing Classes:

   • CreativeLive offers various writing classes, including creative writing, storytelling, and novel writing. Instructors often include experienced authors and writing professionals.

8. MIT OpenCourseWare - Introduction to Creative Writing (Instructor: Dr. Joshua Schuster):

   • MIT's free online course provides an introduction to the practice of creative writing. It covers various genres, including fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction.

9. The Open University - Start Writing Fiction:

   • The Open University offers a free online course called "Start Writing Fiction." It's designed for beginners and covers fundamental aspects of fiction writing.

10. Scrivener's online courses (Literature and Latte):

    • Literature and Latte, the creators of Scrivener writing software, offer online courses covering both the software and broader aspects of writing fiction and nonfiction.

Before enrolling in a course, consider your specific goals, preferred learning style, and the level of commitment you can dedicate to the course. Additionally, reviews and testimonials from previous participants can provide insights into the course's effectiveness.