Creative Writing Certificate

Program Description

Whether you’re an aspiring fiction writer, screenwriter, or editor, this certificate program provides you with the opportunity to craft engaging narratives that captivate readers and spark imagination. Throughout the courses, you’ll develop compelling stories as you refine your voice and master essential craft techniques in a variety of genres.

You will begin by building foundational skills in character development, world-building, story structure and narrative perspective. As you progress, you’ll explore advanced techniques for crafting dialogue, imagery and action, honing your ability to create immersive and impactful scenes. Throughout the program, you’ll practice shaping stories that resonate emotionally and leave lasting impressions — all while developing your unique style.

Through practical application and meaningful critiques from peers and expert writers, this certificate will enable both emerging and experienced writers to strengthen their creative writing practice. Each course combines theoretical understanding with hands-on exercises, allowing you to immediately apply new concepts to your own projects. By the end of the program, you’ll have both the technical skills and confidence to produce writing that resonates.

The courses in this certificate program are required to be completed in the order that they appear.

Key Takeaways

  • Create complex, believable characters within richly detailed story worlds
  • Construct effective narrative frameworks using proven structural techniques
  • Develop distinctive narrative voices and strategic point-of-view approaches
  • Craft natural dialogue enhanced by meaningful subtext and purposeful exposition
  • Build immersive scenes through the balanced use of description, action, and sensory detail
  • Apply professional revision techniques across all elements of creative writing

What You'll Earn

  • Creative Writing Certificate from Cornell University College of Arts and Sciences
  • 96 Professional Development Hours (9.6 CEUs)

Who Should Enroll

  • Aspiring writers (fiction, playwriting, screenwriting, memoirs)
  • Journalists
  • Content writers
  • Actors
  • Teachers
  • Publishing and editing professionals
  • Individuals looking to adapt or develop stories to a new medium
  • Anyone with an interest in narrative storytelling