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creative writing courses free online

How to Write a Novel (Premium)

Write a novel in three months in this premium course led by author and ghostwriter Tom Bromley. Join our next class, May 2024.

Taught by Tom Bromley

creative writing courses free online

Poetry: How to Spark Creativity with Verse

Curious about poetry but don’t know where to start? Join us for 10 days of easy poetry exercises and get your creative juices flowing.

Taught by Emma Murf

creative writing courses free online

How to Write Mind-Blowing Fantasy Fiction

Want to become the next Frank Herbert or N.K. Jemisin? With this free 10-day course, you can learn the basics of writing fantasy.

Taught by Campfire

creative writing courses free online

How to Master the 'Show, Don't Tell' Rule

Learn how to follow the golden writing rule in this free 10-day course from the Reedsy team.

Taught by Reedsy

creative writing courses free online

How to Turn Up the Heat in Your Romance

Ready to steam up your romance? Kelly Palmer's free course takes you through the essentials of hot writing: from creating tension to writing appealing sex scenes!

Taught by Kelly Palmer

creative writing courses free online

How to Write an Irresistible Romance

Romance editor Kate Studer presents this amazing course that will get you started on of the most popular genres in publishing.

Taught by Kate Studer

creative writing courses free online

How to Write YA That Sells

In this free 10-day course, YA author and editor Blair Thornburgh will take you through how to write YA that you can actually sell to a publisher.

Taught by Blair Thornburgh

creative writing courses free online

How to Write for Middle-Grade Readers

Learn how to write for middle-grade readers from Judy Goldschmidt, a YA and MG editor whose credits include numerous NYT best-sellers and prize-winners.

Taught by Judy Goldschmidt

creative writing courses free online

Understanding Point of View

Learn how to master each of the major points of view. With the help of writing exercises, you'll hone your ability to write from every possible perspective.

Taught by Gabriela Pereira

Creative writing courses delivered straight to your inbox

Whether you’re a new writer or a published author, there’s no such thing as a writer who can’t learn something new about their craft. Reedsy Learning’s online writing courses make it easy for anyone, regardless of skill level, to improve their craft, build better routines, and pursue the creative writing life they’ve always longed for.

Learn from the best in the business

Our online writing courses are taught by professionals, including bestselling fantasy author Ben Galley and former Simon & Schuster editor Kate Angelella. Topics include:

  • Writing a novel
  • Writing short stories
  • Show, don’t tell
  • Crafting a children’s book
  • Using dialogue to further your plot and develop your characters
  • Creating an iron-clad writing routine

We’ve got you covered on all these topics and more. Each 10-part course is delivered to your inbox, making these the most convenient creative writing courses on the internet. By saving both time and money, you’ll be able to reinvest in your dreams and get one step closer toward making them a reality.

How much does it cost?

Every writing course we offer is free. At Reedsy, we believe that knowledge shouldn’t be limited to those who can afford to pay for it — if you want to be a great writer, we want to help you achieve that.

Reviews for Reedsy’s free online writing courses

“I'm hooked. As a writer just starting out, this course was exactly what I needed. The lessons were short and sweet, so I wasn't intimidated when I opened my emails.” — Amy S.

“A very comprehensive course, especially considering that it's been delivered fully in an email format. I felt like I was there in the classroom with the teacher.” — Lucy T.

“These writing courses manage to cover a lot of ground in a minimal amount of time and space.” — Aisha P.

“The information you provided was exceptional. So much packed into one bite-sized email each day is definitely what time-strapped people need when trying to jump the hurdles that keep them from writing. These lessons have helped me push through several roadblocks that have kept my writing books closed and my pens in the box.” — Paul D.

“The lessons are short and divided into smaller topics, which makes it so much easier to keep track of what you’re learning.” — Cindy L.

“I am a short fiction and poetry writer who’s been writing for 50+ years. I found these courses to be invaluable as a refresher and a source of new insights. Thank you!” — Steve M.

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7 free online creative writing courses that you can enrol in right now

By Megha Sharma

creative writing write a novel online courses books authors

As a form of expression , a means to escape the reality, and a medium to communicate a larger ideology, the act of writing can serve different purposes. And no matter what your reason to put pen to paper, or keys to screen, these virtual lessons could help you develop the techniques you will require on your creative journey. Here, find out all the free online courses you can join to begin now.

Creative Writing Specialisation

Covering three major creative writing genres—short story, narrative essay and memoir—the course will help you master the techniques of putting your ideas on paper as clearly as possible. So if you’ve been meaning to work some engrossing features in your already existing plot, or better highlight the setting of your story, or simply articulate in a stronger fashion, let this lesson be on your shortlist. In case you’re just starting out, the course is equally rewarding.

Write Your First Novel

Have you been wanting to pen down your thoughts and weave them into a well-written novel? Go for this virtual course where you will learn an end-to-end approach to producing a work of fiction. Through a stepwise process that will culminate in your individual production of a 50,000-word book, the learning course will provide you all the important pointers right from the top.

Writing for Young Readers: Opening the Treasure Chest

Complete with video lectures, online readings, peer reviews and guest appearances from renowned authors, the course will offer an all-inclusive guide to creative writing for students and young aspirers. Apart from that, you will also explore the cultural significance of notable works , analyse the ways in which art and words interact, and become familiar with standard elements of a narrative, that include dialogue, point of view, theme, plot and so on.  

Write A Feature Length Screenplay for Film or Television

Whether your point of interest is serious dramas, romantic comedies or thrillers , the free virtual course will zoom in on every aspect of screenplay writing so you’re able to pursue the genre you want. Following in a well-structured process, you will have produced a pitch-ready script by the time the four-week programme is over. Along with learning how to create a basic idea and write loglines, you will be studying the Three Act Story Arc, and much more.

This interfaith wedding in Italy was a beautiful blend of the Hindu pheras and Muslim nikah

By Arzoo Dina

Madhuri Dixit Nene's Nachiket Barve blouse is adorned with 200 handcrafted and embroidered flowers

By Nupur Sarvaiya

Malaika Arora shows us why practicing yoga is a must for a holistic fitness regimen

By Vogue Staff

Memoir and Personal Essay: Write About Yourself Specialisation

Here, four published memoirists and essayists let you in on the tricks and tools of writing about yourself. Be prepared for professional tips, prompts, reading challenges and exercises among other interactive activities. Unlike many other courses where you will be producing a large body of work at the completion of the programme, here, you will be constructing a portfolio of work to use as valuable components later.

Sharpened Visions: A Poetry Workshop

These lessons support the school of thought that poetry isn’t just a means of expression. Rather, using it for just that, is like “using the internet just for email”. If you too are willing to think beyond that, and take up the art to bring about a change in people’s thought and ideologies, the course is for you. Learn to use the several tools of poetic composition, study the works of contemporary poets and, of course, try your own hand at the skill.

Transmedia Storytelling: Narrative worlds, emerging technologies, and global audiences

In a world that believes in not just up-skilling, but also cross-skilling, this transmedia course serves to be an extremely well-rounded one. The description on the website states, “Transmedia storytelling is the practice of designing , sharing, and participating in a cohesive story experience across multiple traditional and digital delivery platforms - for entertainment, advertising and marketing, or social change.” So learn to develop expansive narratives and optimise your writing for mobile devices, social media communities, virtual and augmented realities and more.

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10 cross-cultural couples reveal the moment they realised they had made the right choice

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8 short books to make you fall back in love with reading

By Francesca Faccani

Euphoria season 3 is still happening&-here’s everything we know

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creative writing courses free online

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Start writing fiction

Start writing fiction

Course description

Course content, course reviews.

Have you always wanted to write, but never quite had the courage to start? This free course, Start writing fiction, will give you an insight into how authors create their characters and setting s. You will also be able to look at the different genre s for fiction.

Course learning outcomes

After studying this course, you should be able to:

  • identify strengths and weaknesses as a writer of fiction
  • demonstrate a general awareness of fiction writing
  • discuss fiction using basic vocabulary.

First Published: 09/08/2012

Updated: 14/05/2018

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Money Talks News

Money Talks News

9 Websites to Learn Skills for Free

Posted: April 24, 2023 | Last updated: June 26, 2023

<p><strong>Median Pay:</strong> $38,500</p> <p><a href="https://www.flexjobs.com/remote-jobs/accounting-clerk">Accounting clerks</a> most often maintain financial records, reconcile bank statements, prepare reports, process transactions, and provide clerical support to an accounting department. Bookkeeping, data entry, and word-processing skills are often required. Accounting clerks can often find remote roles that may be full-time or even freelance.</p>

Editor's Note: This story originally appeared on The Penny Hoarder .

You’ve heard the affirmations about learning as a lifelong journey. But if you’ve ever tried to pick up a hobby or learn something new, you’ll realize the path to perfecting new skills is an expensive one.

Whether it’s an investment in equipment, paid courses or sessions with a pro, the cost to begin learning in-demand skills can be a significant financial barrier.

If you’re looking to upskill for a career move or explore a craft you’ve always admired, there are ways to learn skills for free if you know where to look.

From free online courses that let you progress at your own pace to workshops that hone creative skills, there are plenty of ways to learn new stuff for free or for cheap.

It’s not the usual blah, blah, blah. Click here to sign up for our free newsletter.

Sponsored: Add $1.7 million to your retirement

A recent Vanguard study revealed a self-managed $500,000 investment grows into an average $1.7 million in 25 years. But under the care of a pro, the average is $3.4 million. That’s an extra $1.7 million!

Maybe that’s why the wealthy use investment pros and why you should too. How? With SmartAsset’s free financial adviser matching tool . In five minutes you’ll have up to three qualified local pros, each legally required to act in your best interests. Most offer free first consultations. What have you got to lose? Click here to check it out right now.

Advertising Disclosure: When you buy something by clicking links on our site, we may earn a small commission, but it never affects the products or services we recommend.

<p>While these platforms aren’t offering online courses with graded assignments, these websites and mobile apps provide ways to learn online or explore a new skill in your own time.</p> <ol> <li><strong>YouTube</strong></li> <li><strong>Khan Academy</strong></li> <li><strong>TED</strong></li> <li><strong>Skillshare</strong></li> <li><strong>Duolingo</strong></li> <li><strong>Grow Google</strong></li> <li><strong>HubSpot Academy</strong></li> <li><strong>Codecademy</strong></li> <li><strong>Alison</strong></li> </ol>

While these platforms aren’t offering online courses with graded assignments, these websites and mobile apps provide ways to learn online or explore a new skill in your own time.

  • Khan Academy
  • Grow Google
  • HubSpot Academy

<p>The <a href="https://www.flexjobs.com/publicjobs/video-correspondent-1189570?id=1189570" rel="noopener">Video Correspondent</a> should be a food enthusiast and expert to work on the company’s social media platform. Must film twice a month on a selected topic (based on subject matter expertise), own a smartphone with a working camera, and have the ability to promote the content on your social networks. Ability to write scripts preferred but not required.</p> <h3>Sponsored: Find the right financial adviser</h3> <p>Finding a financial adviser <a href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com/smartasset-msn">you can trust</a> doesn’t have to be hard. A great place to start is with SmartAsset’s free <a href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com/smartasset-msn">financial adviser matching tool</a>, which connects you with up to three qualified financial advisers in five minutes. Each adviser is vetted by SmartAsset and is legally required to act in your best interests.</p> <p>If you’re ready to be matched with local advisers who will help you reach your financial goals, <a href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com/smartasset-msn">get started now</a>.</p>

1. Learn Anything on YouTube

There’s a reason YouTube is Gen Z’s preferred online learning platform and their favorite social media app . From how-to videos on home renovations and crafts to crash courses in string theory, YouTube has something for everyone.

Here are a few popular education channels to check out:

  • Crash Course

If you’re looking for more practical skills training, such as refinishing furniture or playing the piano , YouTube is the best place to start because it’s completely free, and you can get unlimited access to videos without an account.

<p><a href="https://www.khanacademy.org/">Khan Academy</a> started with Sal Khan filming videos to tutor his cousin in math and science. Since then, it has grown into one of the most transformative educational resources on the internet.</p> <p>Its library of free courses covers everything in the K-12 curriculum as well as SAT prep, AP courses and even life skills such as financial literacy and growth mindsets.</p> <p><a href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com/yourself-laundry-detergent/">Related: 3 Easy Ways to Get Laundry Soap for Nearly Nothing</a></p>

2. Get Schooled on Khan Academy

Khan Academy started with Sal Khan filming videos to tutor his cousin in math and science. Since then, it has grown into one of the most transformative educational resources on the internet.

Its library of free courses covers everything in the K-12 curriculum as well as SAT prep, AP courses and even life skills such as financial literacy and growth mindsets.

Related: 3 Easy Ways to Get Laundry Soap for Nearly Nothing

<p>After decades of life lessons, often in the school of hard knocks, many older people are eager to return to school — to learn for the sake of learning or to earn either another college degree or the degree they didn’t get long ago.</p> <p>Seniors enjoy discounts <a href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com/slideshows/7-things-retirees-can-get-for-almost-nothing/">on many goods and services</a>, and that tradition extends to higher education, where some colleges and universities offer free access to classes for retirement-aged students where space permits.</p> <p>You may be able to audit classes (sit in on a class without earning credits) in person or online, or possibly work toward a degree, tuition-free.</p> <p><strong>More:</strong> </p> <ul><li><a href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com/slideshows/ivy-league-colleges-that-offer-free-online-courses/">“8 Ivy League Colleges That Offer Free Online Courses”</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com/slideshows/colleges-with-senior-discounts/">“10 Colleges That Offer Free Tuition for Seniors”</a></li> </ul>

3. Expand Your Thinking With TED

Like the viral TED Talks highlighting industry experts, TED has free resources and short online courses. These are usually less than an hour and provide a quick introduction to things like data science or social media marketing.

If you want a deeper dive, you can sign up for TED’s online courses on topics like public speaking or nurturing your imagination.

The self-paced online lessons are done as part of a cohort of students and cost $49 per course.

<p>Vow to spend a whole month eating from your food stockpiles but extend the no spending from groceries to everything else. Don’t go out to eat or spend money on other entertainment.</p> <p>Don’t buy any clothes, cups of coffee or anything else. The exceptions would be medical and emergencies. Not only will you save money, but you’ll become more aware of where you spend your money and can get your overspending under control.</p> <p>Take a walk, read books you have lying around or go to the library.</p> <p>After you do it once and see how much you’ve saved, plan to do it again in six months or whenever it works for you and your family. Visit your local Living on the Cheap website for free things to do in your city.</p>

4. Find Creative Inspiration on Skillshare

Looking to explore your creative side? Skillshare is the space for you. It offers hands-on free courses for and by creators in areas like graphic design, photography, creative writing, art, music and more.

The downside to Skillshare is that if you want to use it for free, you’ll have to be a quick learner. Your trial lasts only seven days before you get charged for a $32 monthly membership to keep accessing most courses.

<p>Learning a language for free sounds too good to be true, but Duolingo’s 500 million users prove you can learn in-demand skills without paying a dime. </p> <p><a href="https://www.duolingo.com/">Duolingo</a> offers 100 courses across 40 languages, plus it provides<a href="https://englishtest.duolingo.com/access"> fee waivers</a> for low-income students looking to take the English proficiency test.</p>

5. Learn a Language with Duolingo

Learning a language for free sounds too good to be true, but Duolingo’s 500 million users prove you can learn in-demand skills without paying a dime.

Duolingo offers 100 courses across 40 languages, plus it provides fee waivers for low-income students looking to take the English proficiency test.

<p><em>Editor's Note: This story originally appeared on <a href="https://www.flexjobs.com/blog/post/all-about-remote-jobs-for-programmers-and-developers/">FlexJobs.com</a>.</em></p> <p>If you’re considering a career in programming or development, it’s a great choice!</p> <p>These are two of the most in-demand professions across nearly all industries, as companies increasingly rely on software to get work done.</p> <p>From finance and health care to manufacturing and retail, nearly every sector needs programmers and developers to create and maintain the essential software that keeps businesses running.</p> <p>And as workplace technology advances, the demand for these professionals is only likely to grow.</p> <p>So, if you’re looking for a stable and well-paying career, programming or development may be the perfect field.</p>  <p><a href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com#newsletter">It’s not the usual blah, blah, blah. Click here to sign up for our free newsletter.</a></p> <h3>Sponsored: Add $1.7 million to your retirement</h3> <p>A recent Vanguard study revealed a self-managed $500,000 investment grows into an average $1.7 million in 25 years. But under the care of a pro, the average is $3.4 million. That’s an extra $1.7 million!</p> <p>Maybe that’s why the wealthy use investment pros and why you should too. How? With SmartAsset’s free <a href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com/smartasset-msn-nine">financial adviser matching tool</a>. In five minutes you’ll have up to three qualified local pros, each legally required to act in your best interests. Most offer free first consultations. What have you got to lose? <strong><a href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com/smartasset-msn-nine">Click here to check it out right now.</a></strong></p> <p class="disclosure"><em>Advertising Disclosure: When you buy something by clicking links on our site, we may earn a small commission, but it never affects the products or services we recommend.</em></p>

6. Earn a Free Certificate with Grow Google

Google is much more than a search engine. Grow Google offers free classes for high-demand digital skills.

If you’re serious about upskilling to build your resume, Google Digital Garage has free certificate programs in business skills, machine learning, customer service and web development.

creative writing courses free online

7. Find Free Resources at HubSpot Academy

Another great place to upskill for free is HubSpot Academy .

You can earn an online certificate for expanding your digital marketing skills with HubSpot’s free courses on topics like content marketing, business writing, web design and project management.

<p>The data used in this analysis is from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Employment Projections Survey.</p> <p>To identify the fastest-growing jobs in construction, researchers at <a href="https://constructioncoverage.com/research/fastest-growing-jobs-in-construction-2022">Construction Coverage calculated</a> the projected change in employment between 2021 and 2031 for all detailed occupations with at least 1,000 employees in the construction industry in 2021. All data reported at the occupation level — including projected employment, current employment, and median wages — are specific to the construction industry.</p> <p><a href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=msn-newsletter-signup#newsletter">It’s not the usual blah, blah, blah. Click here to sign up for our free newsletter.</a></p> <h3>Sponsored: Add $1.7 million to your retirement</h3> <p>A recent Vanguard study revealed a self-managed $500,000 investment grows into an average $1.7 million in 25 years. But under the care of a pro, the average is $3.4 million. That’s an extra $1.7 million!</p> <p>Maybe that’s why the wealthy use investment pros and why you should too. How? With SmartAsset’s free <a href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com/smartasset-msn-nine"> financial adviser matching tool</a>. In five minutes you’ll have up to three qualified local pros, each legally required to act in your best interests. Most offer free first consultations. What have you got to lose? <strong><a href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com/smartasset-msn-nine">Click here to check it out right now.</a></strong></p>

8. Get Technical Skills at Codecademy

Coding and other computer science qualifications are some of the most coveted resume skills. Start a new career path with the right course in JavaScript, HTML and more at Codecademy .

There’s a three-day free trial for beginners and a yearly membership for future programmers with student-friendly pricing.

<p><em>Editor's Note: This story originally appeared on <a href="https://www.flexjobs.com/blog/post/companies-that-hire-for-part-time-proofreading-and-editing-jobs/">FlexJobs.com</a>.</em></p> <p>Do you have an eye for detail? Were you the spelling bee champion of your school?</p> <p>If so, you may have what it takes to thrive in a proofreading or editing position.</p> <p>Many of these roles offer part-time schedules and the ability to work from anywhere, so you can take your work on the road when you need to move or if you plan to live as a digital nomad.</p> <p>Following, we share what proofreaders and editors do, who benefits from part-time proofreading and editing jobs, and companies hiring for proofreading and editing jobs.</p>  <p><a href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com#newsletter">It’s not the usual blah, blah, blah. Click here to sign up for our free newsletter.</a></p> <h3>Sponsored: Add $1.7 million to your retirement</h3> <p>A recent Vanguard study revealed a self-managed $500,000 investment grows into an average $1.7 million in 25 years. But under the care of a pro, the average is $3.4 million. That’s an extra $1.7 million!</p> <p>Maybe that’s why the wealthy use investment pros and why you should too. How? With SmartAsset’s free <a href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com/smartasset-msn-nine"> financial adviser matching tool</a>. In five minutes you’ll have up to three qualified local pros, each legally required to act in your best interests. Most offer free first consultations. What have you got to lose? <strong><a href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com/smartasset-msn-nine">Click here to check it out right now.</a></strong></p> <p class="disclosure"><em>Advertising Disclosure: When you buy something by clicking links on our site, we may earn a small commission, but it never affects the products or services we recommend.</em></p>

9. Upskill at Alison

Study for the job you want, not the one you have. At Alison , in-demand skills are just the start of advancing your career.

You can create an account and browse the 4,000 free courses on topics like business management, information systems, health care and more.

<p>Want to get beyond in-demand skills and take courses from leading institutions online? You can access high-quality courses free online from top universities.</p>

Where to Find Free Online College Courses

Want to get beyond in-demand skills and take courses from leading institutions online? You can access high-quality courses free online from top universities.

<p>Free shipping with no minimum purchase requirement was once the best-known Amazon Prime perk by far. But the benefits of a <a href="https://clicks.moneytalksnews.com/?v=https%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F3d03K1O&source=msn">Prime membership</a> have evolved to include so much more — from unlimited photo storage to free music, movies and books.</p> <p>If you’re on the fence about paying for Prime, consider the following benefits. If you are already a Prime member, make sure you’re taking advantage of the following benefits.</p> <p>We consider them the best Prime has to offer, partly because they are “free.” Unlike a growing number of Prime perks, they won’t cost you anything in addition to your membership fee.</p> <p><a href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=msn-newsletter-signup#newsletter">It’s not the usual blah, blah, blah. Click here to sign up for our free newsletter.</a></p> <h3>Sponsored: How to find cheaper car insurance in minutes</h3> <p>Getting a better deal on car insurance doesn’t have to be hard. You can have The Zebra, <a href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com/thezebra-msn">an insurance comparison site</a>, compare quotes in just a few minutes and find you the best rates. Consumers save up to $670 per year, according to the site, so if you’re ready to secure your new rate, <a href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com/thezebra-msn">get started now</a>.</p>

If you want to get a peek at course materials from some of the top colleges in the country, Coursera is a good place to start.

Some of the free courses hail from America’s top Ivy League schools such as Yale. And Coursera helps connect students with low-cost online options to earn a bachelor’s degree or professional certificate.

Related: Stop Overpaying for These 10 Common Purchases

<p>In order to create our rankings of the best community colleges in America, we analyzed data on 820 community colleges. We compared these schools across the following three metrics: </p> <ul><li><strong>Student-to-faculty ratio.</strong> This is the number of students for every faculty member. Data comes from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and is for the 2019-2020 school year.</li> <li><strong>Graduation and transfer rate.</strong> This is the percent of students who either graduate from the community college or transfer to a four-year institution. Data comes from IPEDS and is for the 2019-2020 school year.</li> <li><strong>Cost of tuition and fees.</strong> This is the cost of tuition and fees for in-state students completing two semesters of coursework. Data comes from IPEDS and is for the 2019-2020 school year.</li> </ul><p> To create our final rankings, we gave each community college a score in each of the metrics based on how far above or below the mean they were. We used the sum of these numbers to create our final ranking. The community college with the highest cumulative score received a score of 100. The community college with the lowest score received a score of 0.</p> <p><a href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=msn-newsletter-signup#newsletter">It’s not the usual blah, blah, blah. Click here to sign up for our free newsletter.</a></p> <h3>Sponsored: Find the right financial adviser</h3> <p>Finding a financial adviser <a href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com/smartasset-msn">you can trust</a> doesn’t have to be hard. A great place to start is with SmartAsset’s free <a href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com/smartasset-msn">financial adviser matching tool</a>, which connects you with up to three qualified financial advisers in five minutes. Each adviser is vetted by SmartAsset and is legally required to act in your best interests.</p> <p>If you’re ready to be matched with local advisers who will help you reach your financial goals, <a href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com/smartasset-msn">get started now</a>.</p>

With over 160 member universities and big names like Stanford, MIT, Harvard, UC Berkeley and more, edX offers 2,800 online courses in computer science, business management, data science, language, humanities and engineering.

While you can audit a free course, you’ll have to pay the enrollment fee if you want to earn credit and submit graded assignments.

<p>Kids aren’t the only ones who benefit from distance learning. The coronavirus pandemic has proved that online education has become a well-developed technology. Learn Spanish, sign language, coding or photography with the help of YouTube videos, podcasts and other online courses.</p>

Stanford Online

Stanford University’s online platform has a free online course section where you can dip your toes into a bunch of topics free of charge.

The self-paced online course offerings cover a wide spectrum of skills and interests, from child nutrition and cooking to quantum mechanics.

creative writing courses free online

Open Yale Courses

Like Stanford, Yale University has open courses where you can drop in and learn for free.

The course topics span a wide swath of knowledge, including philosophy courses on death and economic classes on emerging financial markets.

<p><em><strong>This story originally appeared on <a href="https://www.thepennyhoarder.com/taxes/work-from-home-tax-deduction/" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Penny Hoarder</a>.</strong></em></p> <p>If you’re one of the millions of workers whose home is now doubling as office space due to the COVID-19 pandemic, you may be wondering whether that means a sweet deduction at tax time.</p> <p>Hold up, though: The IRS has strict rules about taking the home office deduction — and they changed drastically under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which passed in late 2017.</p> <p>Thinking about claiming a home office deduction on your tax return? Follow these tips to avoid raising any eyebrows at the IRS.</p>  <p><a href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=msn-newsletter-signup#newsletter">It’s not the usual blah, blah, blah. Click here to sign up for our free newsletter.</a></p> <h3>Sponsored: Find the right financial adviser</h3> <p>Finding a financial adviser <a href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com/smartasset-msn">you can trust</a> doesn’t have to be hard. A great place to start is with SmartAsset’s free <a href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com/smartasset-msn">financial adviser matching tool</a>, which connects you with up to three qualified financial advisers in five minutes. Each adviser is vetted by SmartAsset and is legally required to act in your best interests.</p> <p>If you’re ready to be matched with local advisers who will help you reach your financial goals, <a href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com/smartasset-msn">get started now</a>.</p>

6 Steps to Learn New Stuff for Free or Cheap

Maybe you promised yourself to learn to skydive or knit this year. Or you’ve decided to go back to school to make your passion your profession.

Either way, there are plenty of free or cheap opportunities to get some practice with local organizations or businesses.

<p>Give specific examples about how you’ve collaborated with team members to hit goals, and what the impact was.</p> <p>For example, have you created reporting dashboards that keep key stakeholders in the loop about performance, or have you utilized project management systems to manage deadlines? Do you send weekly updates to management about progress?</p> <p>On the flip side, most people have experienced significant changes to their schedules during this time, requiring employers to be flexible with their working hours. Be sure to mention how you’ve notified your boss of this while maintaining productivity.</p> <p>Demonstrating your ability to proactively communicate and understand accountability is critical.</p>

1. Start With Community College

Community colleges are great places to explore a new degree path without committing big bucks to a diploma program.

And they can offer a good conduit to local business owners and entrepreneurs.

<p>Whether with your employer or on your own, taking some time to give back to a cause you’re passionate about is one of the best ways to boost your perspective.</p> <p>But don’t worry if your schedule is too hectic to complete a considerable volunteer activity right now.</p> <p>Studies show that simply being kind to others can improve your happiness.</p> <p>So, whether it’s a random act of kindness for a stranger or a more involved volunteer project with a nonprofit you support, being kind can reward you in happiness dividends.</p> <h3>Sponsored: Add $1.7 million to your retirement</h3> <p>A recent Vanguard study revealed a self-managed $500,000 investment grows into an average $1.7 million in 25 years. But under the care of a pro, the average is $3.4 million. That’s an extra $1.7 million!</p> <p>Maybe that’s why the wealthy use investment pros and why you should too. How? With SmartAsset’s free <a href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com/smartasset-msn-nine"> financial adviser matching tool</a>. In five minutes you’ll have up to three qualified local pros, each legally required to act in your best interests. Most offer free first consultations. What have you got to lose? <strong><a href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com/smartasset-msn-nine">Click here to check it out right now.</a></strong></p> <p class="disclosure"><em>Advertising Disclosure: When you buy something by clicking links on our site, we may earn a small commission, but it never affects the products or services we recommend.</em></p>

2. Consider Volunteering

There’s nothing that proves time really is money like volunteering. If you’re looking to pick up a new skill, consider volunteering for an organization where you can pitch in and help your community.

In exchange for your time, you’ll get real-world experience.

creative writing courses free online

3. Look for Continuing Education Programs

Continuing education programs come in all flavors, but they’re usually associated with a local school district, trade school, community college or university system.

Start by searching city or county websites as state or local governments often fund these programs.

<p>Want to learn to weld or make book sculptures for craft fairs?</p> <p>Consider finding a makerspace that offers access to tools and equipment, training and affordable workshops.</p> <h3>Sponsored: Add $1.7 million to your retirement</h3> <p>A recent Vanguard study revealed a self-managed $500,000 investment grows into an average $1.7 million in 25 years. But under the care of a pro, the average is $3.4 million. That’s an extra $1.7 million!</p> <p>Maybe that’s why the wealthy use investment pros and why you should too. How? With SmartAsset’s free <a href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com/smartasset-msn-nine">financial adviser matching tool</a>. In five minutes you’ll have up to three qualified local pros, each legally required to act in your best interests. Most offer free first consultations. What have you got to lose? <strong><a href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com/smartasset-msn-nine">Click here to check it out right now.</a></strong></p> <p class="disclosure"><em>Advertising Disclosure: When you buy something by clicking links on our site, we may earn a small commission, but it never affects the products or services we recommend.</em></p>

4. Find a Makerspace

Want to learn to weld or make book sculptures for craft fairs?

Consider finding a makerspace that offers access to tools and equipment, training and affordable workshops.

<p>Everyone has some kind of interest in life, and no matter what it is, you can probably figure out a way to make money.</p> <p>Do you €¦ </p> <ul> <li>Build model trains? Could you host kid birthday parties or workshops?</li> <li>Play tennis? What about offering lessons? Start a tournament?</li> <li>Watch TV? How about starting a blog reviewing favorite shows?</li> <li>Love baseball? Have you considered organizing tours to games or ballparks?</li> <li>Reading and cooking? Maybe you could cater a pop-up restaurant in your home based on a different book each month.</li> </ul> <p><strong>How to Get Started:</strong></p> <p> Start small by offering services to friends for a small fee. See where it takes you!</p>

5. Search for Local Workshops

Picking up a new hobby or even a career skill is as easy as finding a free or cheap local workshop on your community calendar.

Choose from artist collectives that offer painting and pottery classes to parenting classes or first aid certifications sponsored by city governments.

<p>You know that china set that’s been collecting dust? Stop telling yourself you’ll pass it down to your kids. Get cash for your dishes instead, along with all the other unused items lying around the house.</p> <p>Organize a garage sale if you prefer to sell in person. Or go the online route and, sell your stuff online on sites like eBay and lesser-known <a href="https://www.thepennyhoarder.com/make-money/quick-money/online-flea-markets-youve-never-heard-of/?aff_id=178&aff_sub3=MainFeed__save-money/frugal-retirement/" rel="noopener">online flea markets</a>.</p>

6. Ask a Local Business

It sounds simplistic, but ask a local business specializing in the skill or hobby you’re learning.

For instance, local ski resorts offer free skiing lessons for the same reason craft stores offer painting classes or Home Depot teaches workshops on making furniture. It’s an investment in cultivating lifetime customers.

<p>Work feels less like work if you love what you do. Use this opportunity to find a job that lets you explore your passions.</p> <p>Whether it’s a position that lets you use your skills and knowledge to help others or just one that offers you perks — such as discounts — a part-time job in retirement can be a positive thing if you find something that you enjoy.</p> <p><a href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com/slideshows/7-hobbies-that-help-you-live-longer/">Related: 7 Hobbies That Help You Live Longer</a></p>

How Much Money Can You Make Learning a New Skill?

If you’re trying to earn extra money picking up a new skill for a side hustle or upskilling to get a promotion, it can be hard to tell what’s worth your time.

The best way to learn something that will make you bank is to invest in skills employers want or try an in-demand side hustle.

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5 free online courses with certificates in 2024.

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We all know that gaining a certificate is a sure-fire way to attract the attention of recruiters and hiring managers when searching for a new position, or that of your employer when seeking to progress up the ladder.

But unfortunately, with the cost of living crisis, not everyone can afford the luxury of attending a three-day conference or business training event, obtaining a certificate from a higher education institution, or even being able to pay for some of the relatively low-cost distance learning courses online.

Especially if you've been hit with a layoff, you understand just how critical it is to guard your pennies closely, to make them stretch until the first payday in your new job. But at the same time, while completing a course is certainly an achievement, it's even better when you have a certificate to prove it. This means that many professionals like you who have been laid off or are struggling to make ends meet with their current salary, are facing quite a paradoxical situation.

The good news is that you don't need to sacrifice your certificate if you are tight on cash. You can still learn a new skill, totally for free, with a reputable provider—some of them being big name employers such as Meta or Google—and come away with a certification at the end.

The five courses with certificates below are just a sample of online courses that will not only help you improve and learn new skills, but will give you something to show for it—all without you having to spend a dime.

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Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024, 1. ibm—python for data science, ai, and development.

This comprehensive foundational course is provided by Coursera and taught by IBM instructors. It is self-paced and very much hands-on, including 22 assessments or assignments. The course teaches you the fundamentals of the programming language Python, and how to apply Python to read and write files and work with data. Upon completion, you can obtain a certificate. The entire course and certificate (which you can also share to LinkedIn) is free if you require financial aid.

2. Google IT Support

Another popular free online course with a certificate, that teaches you in-demand skills is Google's IT Support certificate, also offered by Coursera. This is a fantastic certification to add to your resume if you are applying for an entry-level IT role. When you finish your studies and earn a certificate, you are able to utilize their career and job search resources, including access to an employer consortium of major tech companies, such as Google and Salesforce.

3. Google Project Management Certificate

If you're launching your project management career, you might have the goal of obtaining your PMP certification. This is a worthy endeavour, but it might be out of reach if you cannot afford to expend money on your professional development right now. Google's project management certificate, which covers the foundations of project management, is available via Coursera, and you can get a free certificate upon completion as well.

This is a great way to get your foot in the door and obtain recognition from employers while on your journey towards advancing your project management expertise with a certificate from the Project Management Institute.

4. CompTIA Security+

Alison offers courses within cyber security and information technology such as Comptia Security+. With all of Alison's courses, you can be eligible for a certificate if you pass the final assessment with a minimum of an 80% score.

Unlike some of the other course providers listed in this article, Alison's certificates do come with a small fee—their lowest being their digital certificates priced at $22 at the time of writing. However if you are unable to afford this, they state on their website that you can still use and share your learner record which works just as well for the purpose of proving your professional development.

5. Excel For Beginners

If your role requires the use of Microsoft Excel and you're not feeling confident with it, Great Learning offers a free course covering the basics such as cell referencing, and sorting and filtering data, and a free certificate of completion is also included.

You don't need to sacrifice content and training quality when you study for free

These courses offering free certificates are a mere handful of the thousands that are available on these and other platforms, covering a wide range of subjects, from tech, to sales and business development, to marketing, leadership, and finance. With so many options available, there is nothing holding you back from reaching the next level in your career development journey.

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Technical Writing

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technical writing in 11 reviews

It's an amazing begin for peoples that need to have a first contact with the technical writing.

I enjoyed learning technical writing course from Coursera.

The entire "first week" is background information about the university and instructors, along with a short animation related to technical writing with no commentary that seems like it was made to be inserted into a video but was uploaded alone instead.

You can skip straight to Week 2 "Characteristics of Technical Writing" and not be any worse off for it.

", could've easily been combined with the course information in a text document or with "Characteristics of Technical Writing" for a more robust understanding of what technical writers do and how it relates to their writing.)

For how much the course tries to impress that technical writing should be clear, concise, and well-presented, it fails in nearly all of those aspects.It's not unwatchable and there's solid information to be found, but those are only part of what makes a quality educational video.

Great course and got great insights about Technical Writing.

Adding some Technical Writing Tools would have been even nicer.

This course was a great opportunity to learn the pros and cons of technical writing.

This course is very helpful for developing technical writing skill.

Is a product description an example of marketing or technical writing?

I think the information you learn about the reasons for technical writing as well as the types, and intricate parts of a body of work are valuable information.

This course is a great gateway to the world of technical writing.

The course was very well structured... a perfect balance between theoretical and practical aspects of Technical Writing.

An overview of related careers and their average salaries in the US. Bars indicate income percentile.

Technical File Reviewer $49k

Logistics Specialist / Technical Support $76k

Technical Field Representative 3 $81k

Technical Service Representative 1 2 $91k

Americas Technical Analyst $104k

Team IT Technical Analyst Lead 3 $108k

Technical Research and Development Engineer $109k

Technical Implementation Specialist Lead 2 $113k

Technical Marketing Mgr $114k

Technical Onsite Project Manager $117k

Distiguished Member of Technical Staff 3 $146k

Senior Program Manager/Technical Project Manager $156k

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Online marketing for beginners: 10 paid and free courses to start with

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In today’s digital marketplace, personalization is king. Hubspot’s The State of Marketing 2024 report underscores this, revealing that 75% of marketers credit personalized experiences with boosting sales and customer loyalty. This strategic focus is reshaping companies’ online narratives, directly influencing a return on investment (ROI) and growth trajectories.

The digital realm demands a deep understanding of consumer behavior, market trends, and keeping up with technological trends and advancements. For those carving out a career in digital or online marketing, you’re in an era where science meets creativity. 

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Dr. Jonah Berger, a Wharton School professor at the University of Pennsylvania and bestselling author of books like Magic Words and The Catalyst , views the right digital marketing course as a critical piece in the puzzle of success.

“If you already have your product, a class can teach you how to get it to the right customers,” he asserts. Berger emphasizes the versatility of digital marketing education, noting that it can guide entrepreneurs in everything from product design to startup selection.

He advises prospective students to first identify their needs and desired outcomes before choosing a course. “The more that courses help you address a particular tactical need you have, the better off you’re going to be,” he explains. He encourages focusing on “modern marketing” trends such as customer centricity, highlighting the shift towards prioritizing the customer’s perspective over the product or service.

For Berger, truly successful digital marketing lies in “the marriage of data science and behavioral science.” He stresses the importance of understanding customer decision-making while leveraging data for deeper insights. This approach is paramount in a landscape dominated by search engines, social media, and omni-channel marketing strategies.

For those interested in working in the online marketing industry, taking a course can be an effective way to build a solid foundation. Fortune compiled a list of both free and paid online marketing courses you can take on your home computer to help you add the skill to your digital toolbox. 

5 free online marketing courses

Enrolling in a free course can give you the necessary skills to get started without breaking the bank. These five free online courses teach digital marketing at an introductory level. Each varies on program length but offers generalized coursework. The list is in alphabetical order.

1. CareerFoundry: Digital Marketing Program

This one is for people who don’t have a lot of time but still want to dip their toes in the digital marketing waters. To figure out if digital marketing is right for you, CareerFoundry can send you a free five-day short course to your email inbox. Each lesson takes around 15 minutes, offering barebones instruction to the world of digital marketing and making a career change. It’s worth noting that the content you receive is the beginning lessons of a much more robust, four to seven-month long, $6,900 immersive, should you want to opt for the paid version. 

2. Google: Fundamentals of Digital Marketing

This 40-hour course, offered by one of the most popular search engine companies, teaches digital marketing at an entry-level . The 24-module class, accredited by the Interactive Advertising Bureau Europe and The Open University, contains hands-on exercises.

Tutorials include topics like making it easy to find a business on the internet and reaching customers through email and video. After passing each tutorial, the course offers one final assessment, and after taking and passing that, you will receive a sharable award to add to your LinkedIn profile.

3. Meta: Blueprint

Facebook’s parent company, Meta, offers 36 free courses in its Blueprint program . The program aims to give learners fast, self-guided digital marketing walkthroughs and training on sites like Facebook, Messenger, Instagram, and WhatsApp. Topics range from bringing your business online and establishing marketing goals to attracting an audience and making creative Instagram Stories. 

4. Simplilearn: Digital Marketing Strategy

This free course by Simplilearn consists of seven main modules, each containing a self-paced string of video lessons. It aims to provide learners with an introduction to the digital marketing landscape. 

In two hours, you will learn about customer segmentation and persona, plus you’ll learn how to conduct market research and create a marketing calendar. After each chapter, there is a knowledge check, and after completing the class, you will receive a certificate of completion. According to the site, more than 25,000 people have enrolled in this course.

5. Udemy: Marketing on Instagram 

This introductory course from Three Sixty Academy , offered on the Udemy platform, teaches learners the fundamentals of Instagram marketing and how to increase your follower base and maximize ROI. The course consists of nine tutorials over the course of 40 minutes. According to the site, more than 30,000 students have enrolled in this course. 

5 paid online marketing courses

Taking paid courses can be an effective way to learn marketing concepts and practical applications. By paying for a course, you can access comprehensive content and detailed explanations in a structured learning environment. This can help you gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter and improve your skills. Courses are listed in alphabetical order.

1. Coursera: Introduction to Digital Marketing

Coursera has a beginner-level course that lasts for around nine hours and is taught by Steve Fritzenkotter, a continuing education instructor from the University of California, Irvine. The course covers everything from search engine marketing and two-way communication with customers to storytelling and reputation management. 

According to the site, it’s free to start, but after a seven-day trial period, you’ll be required to pay $49 monthly. The subscription gives you access to all of the lectures, assignments, knowledge checks, discussion forums, and even a certification of completion. Lastly, the course has more than 10,500 enrollees. 

2. eCornell: Assessing Opportunities in Paid Digital Media

eCornell’s online paid media course covers the basics of search engine marketing, email marketing, and video marketing through a paid lens. The course tackles topics like social media and mobile ads and will guide you through the process of drafting a paid media marketing plan. 

This two-week, fully online, instructor-led course is targeted towards marketing managers who want to understand the role digital marketing plays in an organization. The course is priced at $1,199 and is part of eCornell’s Digital Marketing program, which is priced at $3,699 and includes four courses. After completing the entire program, you will have earned a certificate.

3. Harvard Business School: Digital Marketing Strategy

Harvard Business School Online’s digital marketing course is seven weeks long, self-paced, and contains six modules. The key concepts taught are the evolution of marketing, different approaches to budget allocation, and customer engagement techniques like storytelling and personalization. 

The featured exercises include building a practice budget, calculating a customer’s lifetime value, and advising a real-life company on its marketing plan. The course costs $1,750, and the application is free, but you must be at least 18 years old to apply. 

4. LinkedIn Learning: Advance as a Digital Marketing Specialist

LinkedIn Learning’s digital marketing career path is a comprehensive program with nine courses. Each one is more than ten hours long and is designed to teach learners how to create effective customer touchpoints, develop content strategies, and gain expertise in SEO and analytics. Upon completing the program, students receive a certificate that can be added to their LinkedIn profile.

The lectures are delivered by industry experts Brad Batesole, who teaches part-time at California State University Northridge, and Marta Dapena-Baron, a former marketing lecturer at the University of Michigan and Cornell University.

To access this course path, users must subscribe to the service. The subscription costs $379.88 per seat per year, with a two-seat minimum requirement for teams.

5. Udemy: The Complete Digital Marketing Course—12 Courses in 1 

This $199.99 course offered by Udemy teaches students how to master digital marketing strategy and the fundamentals of social media, SEO, YouTube, email, X (formerly Twitter), Quora, and Facebook marketing. Taught in 17 languages over 22.5 hours of videos and articles, it also teaches you copywriting, making a website, and performing market research. 

According to the site, the course comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, and it caters to three target audiences: individuals who wish to enhance their skills for job opportunities, website owners looking to boost their traffic and sales, and pre-launch business owners who are unsure where to begin.

Things to consider before enrolling in an online marketing course

If there’s one takeaway from this article, it’s that there are a lot of options in terms of the kinds of courses you can take. An overwhelming number of options can lead to analysis paralysis, so it’s important to remember that while some courses might sound great, they might not give you the exact results you’re looking for. 

Before spending your hard-earned cash or wasting your time with any marketing course, consider these factors:

  • Hands-on practice : According to a report by the U.S. Department of Education ,  the term “hands-on approach” refers to guided instruction through experience. “It’s one thing to hear somebody say something. It can be quite another to make sure you can apply that thing,” Berger says. “It’s important to learn from others, but you need to make sure you can apply those learnings as well.” 
  • Reviews : Berger says that word of mouth is another powerful tool in determining what you should spend your money and time on. “When I am making a tough decision, I turn to others—either looking at reviews online or talking with people offline—to understand what other people think and help make better decisions.” Sites like Udemy and Simplilearn provide ratings on the front pages of courses. 

So, what is the best online marketing course to take?

The best online marketing course is the one that best suits your needs. While you can scroll through thousands of TikTok and YouTube videos to pick up key information, a structured course can give you the backbone you need to improve your digital marketing skills. 

Whether you want to learn for free or for money, there’s an option for everyone. But if you’re still on the fence about taking an online marketing course, hear Berger’s advice: 

“Marketing touches almost everything we do—we all have a customer. Brand managers sell products, B2B companies sell services, leaders sell ideas, doctors convince patients to take medicine, lawyers try to convince their clients to take action, and employees try to convince their bosses.”

He explains that whether we interface with our customers, spouses, or children, we aim to understand them and meet them where they are. “It’s about understanding who you’re interacting with and delivering them value.” If that sounds interesting to you, then digital marketing could be a good career path. 

Fortune outlined the path you need to take to become a digital marketer , and we also compiled a list of 16 entrepreneurial classes you can take online now .

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Center for Russian, East European and Eurasian Studies at The University of Texas at Austin

Grad Program: MA in Creative Writing in Russian (Moscow)

Application opens February 2019

For fiction/non-fiction writers in Russian.

MA “Creative Writing”  is:

  • Practical and theoretical/historical courses, such as  Creative Writing Workshop ,  Storytelling in Different Media ,  Literary Editing , Poetics of Novel and Screenwriting ;
  • Unique professors and teachers, among them famous Russian writers, screenwriters and critics –  Marina Stepnova ,  Lyudmila Ulitskaya ,  Lev Danilkin ,  Sergey Gandlevsky  and  Maya Kucherskaya  as well as prominent philologists, authors of academic and non-fiction books  Oleg Lekmanov ,  Ekaterina Lyamina  and  Alexey Vdovin ;
  • Participation in open readings, discussions and  literary expeditions ,  publications in students’ projects ;
  • International exchange  – lectures and workshops of the leading specialists in Creative Writing, students’ exchange in the best world universities;
  •  Help and support in the process of  employment  in various publishing houses, editorials, Mass Media, high schools and universities and PR;
  • Creation and participation in  cultural projects ;
  • Flexible timetable  enabling students to work while studying.

Our graduates already work in the best publishing houses, universities and schools in Moscow. Their writing is published in the authoritative literary magazines. Their projects (such as prize  “_Litblog”  for the best literary blogger and first Creative Writing Internet resource in Russian  “Mnogobukv” and collections of prose) have gained much attention.

Language of instruction: Russian

You can apply to non-paid place as a foreign student in February. Looking forward to seeing you at Higher School of Economics!

More information about the programme:  https://www.hse.ru/en/ma/litmaster

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