Postgraduate Certificate Home Study

In this module, you will explore the foundational elements of creative writing across various genres including fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and drama. Learn how to build a compelling narrative structure, create memorable characters, effectively use different settings and atmospheres, and master various points of view to enhance your storytelling.

Sharpen your writing skills with techniques that bring your prose to life. This module covers how to 'show, not tell' to improve descriptive writing, craft realistic dialogues, control pacing, and use flashbacks and foreshadowing. You'll also begin to develop your editing skills with practical self-editing techniques.

Delve into the forms and functions of poetry, exploring structures from sonnets to free verse. Understand how imagery and symbolism enrich your poems. You’ll also learn to write compelling personal essays and memoirs, conduct research for non-fiction, and discover the pathways to publishing your work.

Focus on crafting engaging short stories by understanding essential story elements, developing plots, and creating suspense and drama. This module also covers themes, motifs, and the practicalities of getting your short stories published.

Explore the basics of playwriting and scriptwriting, from structuring a play to script formatting. Learn how to develop characters for the stage and screen and use dialogue and subtext effectively to engage audiences.

Develop complex narratives with multiple storylines, create in-depth characters, and use settings to influence the narrative. Dive into genres like sci-fi, fantasy, horror, and historical fiction, blending imaginative elements with realistic settings.

Enhance your writing with advanced literary devices and stylistic techniques, including metaphors, similes, alliteration, stream of consciousness, and the use of unreliable narrators. Explore the unique narrative possibilities of epistolary writing through letters and diary entries.

Understand the nuances of writing for younger audiences, from themes and character development to the structural considerations of children's books. Learn about the children’s book market and how to engage young readers effectively.

Build on your scriptwriting skills with advanced lessons on character arcs, dialogue, stage directions, and screenplay development. Learn how to pitch and sell your scripts to potential producers and networks.

Gain insight into the publishing industry, comparing self-publishing and traditional publishing routes. Understand the roles of literary agents, and learn strategies for marketing your book and the importance of cover design and a compelling synopsis.

Push the boundaries of traditional narrative with experimental writing techniques, incorporating multimedia, interactive elements, and cross-genre writing. Explore current trends and future possibilities in storytelling.

Apply critical theories to enhance your writing and analysis skills. Explore text analysis, comparative literature, biographical criticism, and eco-criticism, understanding their impact on creative writing and interpretation.

Develop essential skills for professional writing, including grant and proposal writing, technical documentation, effective business communications, and the legal and ethical considerations in professional writing contexts. Learn how to build a successful freelance writing career.

Deepen your understanding of poetic form and contemporary movements. Engage with performance poetry and spoken word, and gain experience in editing and curating poetry collections through practical workshops.

Embark on the journey of novel writing, from planning and outlining to drafting and revising. Explore character development, thematic depth, and the unique challenges and strategies of writing and revising long-form narratives.