Writing Classes
Writing classes can make all the difference between being an aspiring writer and a published author. The right class will provide plenty of “lightbulb moments,” and can literally be life changing.
Many years ago I met Hollywood screenwriter Doran William Cannon, when he was teaching his Write Like a Pro class. Bill and I hit it off, and soon we were teaching seminars together. When Bill passed away I was asked to update his class and take it over. Now called Write Fiction Like a Pro, I still think it’s the single best way for aspiring authors to learn the craft.
Our classes are presented in two different formats: College Affiliated Extension Courses and Online Video Courses.
College Affiliated Extension Courses
Online college-affiliated extension courses are offered through the online learning programs of more than 1500 colleges, worldwide. Each course lasts six weeks and consists of 12 lessons. Each lesson includes written instructional materials, a quiz, web resources, an assignment involving your own original writing, and a discussion area where you’ll share your work and receive feedback from me. It’s like being a member of the world’s most exclusive critique group! New courses begin monthly.
These are our most intensive courses, where interaction with your instructor is key.
Write Fiction Like a Pro
Learn the story structuring skills the pros use. Develop your own original novel with a clear path from beginning to end.
Mystery Writing
Master the techniques of best-selling mystery authors including story structure, crime scenes, MacGuffins, and red herrings.
Writing Young Adult Fiction
Create your own successful young adult story with the recipe used by bestselling YA authors, and learn how to get it published.
Writing For Children
Discover what you need to know to write for children, from picture books to middle grade and young adult novels.
Advanced Fiction Writing
Explore all the topics a writer needs: story structure, plot, character, dialogue, setting, suspense, and getting published.
Please note we earn a small commission when you enroll in one of our college-affiliated extension courses using the links above.
Online Video Courses
Our online video courses provide the most effective way to learn about writing at your own speed. Dani and I teach all of the courses, and provide constant interaction with our students.
Once you enroll in a course, you are a member forever, and may progress through the lessons – or retake them – at any time. Each lesson includes applicable resources and discussion areas where you can ask questions and receive feedback.
What Our Students Say
“This course was amazing. I not only learned a tremendous amount, I have also gained confidence in my ability to write a compelling novel. Thank you so much to the instructor for his time and knowledge!”
“The teacher, Professor Alcorn, went over and above what anyone would reasonably expect. He responded to all posts promptly, sometimes within minutes. This course was excellent in every respect.”
“Great Class. Made me realize how little I really know about writing! Really glad I took this course! Would like to take more of Steve’s writing courses.”
“This is an outstanding course. I would recommend it to everyone who aspires to write a novel. Steve Alcorn is the best writing instructor I could have wished for.”
“Before this course, I knew ‘diddly-squat’ about what is involved in writing a novel. Prof. Alcorn took us step by step through story structure in a way that was practical, thorough, and encouraging.”
“Steve Alcorn is the best instructor I have taken an online class from to date. I am looking forward to taking several more classes from this instructor in the future.”
“This was a really fun course that has taught me invaluable information for writing. With the knowledge I’ve gained, I really feel I can now write a complete story.”
“Best instructor ever!”