Oxford Creative Writing Online Summer Course

Course Description: Oxford Creative Writing Online Summer Course

Live Online Learning from Oxford

Our online programmes deliver an academically rigorous curriculum led by tutors from leading universities. We provide a structured, live learning environment where students can interact in real-time with their peers and tutors. Families can feel confident in a trusted organisation known for high teaching standards, small class sizes (maximum 15 students), and a supportive digital community.

Passionate about writing? Keen to refine your skills? The Online Creative Writing Academy offers the perfect opportunity for aspiring authors to explore the craft of fiction and narrative from anywhere in the world.

Through live, interactive tutorials (not pre-recorded), you will craft compelling characters, build immersive worlds, and develop your own professional writing portfolio. Guided by expert tutors from leading universities such as Oxford and Cambridge, you will explore the evolution of literary styles, master the art of the plot, and discover how to bring your unique creative ideas to life.

Course Content & Learning Objectives

1. Introduction to Creative Writing

• Get to know your international cohort and tutor, establish course norms and goals, and understand the overall task for your final portfolio.

• Genres & Styles: Explore a wide range of writing styles including fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and writing for screen and stage. Discuss the theory behind engaging written work and begin building your own fictional worlds.

2. Why Do We Write? And What to Write?

• Discuss the fundamental human need to share experiences and understand the variety of mediums for creative writing, from free verse to plays and novels.

• Learn the defining features of narrative writing and explore diverse themes to spark your own original writing projects.

3. Characterisation

• Explore the imaginative ways in which writers introduce and develop realistic characters that resonate with readers.

• Dynamics: Understand the vital relationship between character and plot, and begin creating your own character profiles with specific traits and developmental arcs.

4. Plot

• Understand the essential importance of plot in writing and use templates and frameworks, such as storyboarding, to map out your narrative.

• Consider advanced aspects of plotting, including the use of twists, turns, red herrings, and effective pacing.

5. Narrative Perspective and Genre

• Consider the role of narrative perspective in how readers experience literature and practise writing from a variety of points of view.

• Genre Exploration: Review examples of Gothic, Romance, Horror, Sci-Fi, and Realism to discover how specific language and techniques define different literary genres.

6. Description

• Develop your own descriptive style by exploring the use of literary techniques such as simile and metaphor.

• Setting the Scene: Master the "show, don't tell" technique to enhance your descriptions and transport your readers into a convincingly built environment.

7. Dialogue

• Understand the difference between written dialogue as it appears in fiction versus non-fiction.

• Effective Speech: Identify the techniques used by writers to create engaging, realistic dialogue that develops characters and advances the plot.

8. Blogging and Online Content

• Discover how online content and blogging differ from more traditional forms of writing.

• Digital Presence: Create your own mini-blogs and evaluate the techniques used by successful online writers to engage a global audience.

9. Creative Writing for Good

• Explore how writing can be used as a tool for advocacy, community building, and driving positive social change.

• Learn how to ensure that writing becomes a consistent part of your daily routine and develop a final piece of writing for your portfolio.

10. Final Presentations & Conclusion

• Present your final creative project to your peers and tutor in a supportive workshop environment.

• Receive detailed feedback, reflect on your learning journey, and participate in a formal closing to celebrate your progress as a writer.

Meet Your Tutor 👩‍🏫

Sarah Marshall BA Hons, MSt (Oxon), DPhil (Oxon) (Candidate)

Sarah was awarded a Master of Studies with Distinction in Classical Languages and Literature by the University of Oxford in 2021. She subsequently taught English and Classics at Wycombe Abbey School and returned to Oxford in 2023 to pursue a DPhil. She won the Avril Gilchrist Bruten Award for Creative Writing in 2024 in recognition of her work.

Please note, our faculty members may be subject to change.

Develop Your Creative Writing Skills

Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of creative writing by tackling real-world challenges, participating in masterclasses, and learning from an inspirational tutor.

Master Fundamental Writing Concepts

• Master key concepts such as plot development, character creation, and writing for online platforms – all under the guidance of our expert tutors from leading universities like Oxford and Cambridge.

Be Mentored by an Expert Academic

• Work closely with an academic mentor on real-world writing challenges. Whether overcoming writer's block, providing constructive feedback, or avoiding plot holes, you’ll gain invaluable experience, working through problems just like the experts.

Connect with Future Writing Professionals

• Join our weekly video socials to meet fellow students from around the world. These casual, fun events feature games, quizzes, and group activities, offering a chance to unwind, socialise, and make lasting connections with others passionate about literature.

Hear From a Graduate 💬

Mario Baluta - Online Creative Writing Course

“The online Creative Writing course was amazing! The classes were insightful, the tutors were inspirational and I made so many wonderful new connections with classmates from all over the world. The experience has given me the confidence and skills to pursue creative writing as a career.”

Practical Information

• Format: Live tutorials (Zoom or similar platform)

• Timings: Tutorials take place from 1pm – 3pm UK Time

• Dates: June – August (2-week programmes)

• Class Size: Maximum 15 students to ensure personalised attention

• Requirements: Ages 15-18; Laptop with camera/mic; English level B2/C1

What’s Included in Your Tuition Fee

Academics

• 20 Hours of live teaching (over two weeks)

• 4 Hours of Masterclass sessions

• Preparatory reading list & independent study assignments

• Detailed, personalised feedback on your writing portfolio

Graduation & Beyond

• Formal Online Graduation Ceremony

• Personalised Letter of Recommendation from your tutor

• Official Certificate of Achievement

• Invitation to the Ambassador Programme

• Ongoing academic advice and support