Fiction writing is both an art and a professional skill set—and many writers stall not from lack of imagination, but from lacking a repeatable craft process, a revision system, and a clear pathway to professional submission and monetization. This fiction writing course addresses those gaps by teaching you the core mechanics that make stories work (structure, character, POV, scene craft, and voice) while also integrating modern, AI-enhanced workflows to support ideation and revision responsibly—without replacing the author's voice.
In this creative writing course, you will move through a 12-module progression that builds craft mastery first, then professionalizes through systematic revision and the business of writing (industry formatting, query letters/synopses, and targeting publishers/agents). This online writing course culminates in a portfolio-based final project—a polished, publication-ready short story or novel excerpt (3,000–5,000 words)—supported by peer feedback, instructor guidance, and professional presentation expectations so you can confidently revise, submit, and pursue paid writing opportunities.
Instructor(s):Brian Hassett
Brian Hassett is a PhD-trained English literature scholar and veteran professor with three decades of experience teaching students how stories work—from structure and theme to voice, style, and the art of revision. His approach brings academic rigor to practical writing: close reading, clear craft principles, and feedback that helps writers level up without losing their unique voice. In the Fiction Writer program, he helps learners turn instinct into technique and drafts into publishable work.
Siobhan Ordorica
Siobhan Ordorica is a fiction writer, mentor, and editor who helps writers craft stories that move readers and sustain creative momentum. With extensive experience editing fiction and guiding writers through revision, she brings a practical, encouraging approach to developing character, voice, and scene-level storytelling. In the Fiction Writer program, she supports learners in turning ideas into finished work—building confidence, craft, and a consistent writing process.
Requirements:
Hardware Requirements:
- This course can be taken on either a PC, Mac, or Chromebook.
Software Requirements:
- PC: Windows 10 or later.
- Mac: macOS 12 or later.
- Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
- Any word processing application (not included in enrollment).
- Microsoft Word Online
- Adobe Acrobat Reader.
- Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.
Other:
- Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.
Instructional Material Requirements:
The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.
Hide Syllabus
Lesson 1
- Introduction to Fiction Writing
- Types and forms of fiction
- Finding inspiration and ideas
- The importance of craft
- Character Development
- Creating dimensional characters
- Character desires and motivations
- Character profiles and arcs
- Plot and Structure
- Story structure basics
- Shaping beginning, middle, and end
- Outlining techniques
- Point of View
- Types of POV
- Choosing the right perspective
- Maintaining consistent POV
- Description and Setting
- Using sensory details
- Creating vivid settings
- Integrating description with POV
- Dialogue
- Crafting realistic conversations
- Dialogue tags and formatting
- Using dialogue to reveal character
- Pacing and Tension
- Controlling story rhythm
- Building and releasing tension
- Flashbacks and time manipulation
- Voice and Style
- Developing a unique voice
- Understanding style elements
- Experimenting with different styles
- Theme and Subtext
- Identifying themes in fiction
- Weaving themes into your story
- Creating meaningful subtext
- Revision Techniques
- Self-editing strategies
- Receiving and incorporating feedback
- Multiple drafts and polishing
- The Business of Writing
- Manuscript formatting
- Query letters and synopses
- Targeting publishers and agents
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