What are the best creative writing courses on Coursera?

Top options include the Creative Writing Specialization from Wesleyan University and Write Your First Novel from Michigan State University . These courses focus on fiction, memoir, poetry , and narrative techniques to help you develop your voice and writing style.

Can I learn creative writing for free on Coursera?

Yes. Many creative writing courses offer a free audit option, allowing you to access video lessons and readings at no cost. To earn a certificate or complete peer-reviewed assignments, you’ll need to upgrade or apply for financial aid.

What will I learn in a creative writing course?

You’ll learn how to craft compelling stories, build strong characters, write dialogue, and structure essays, poems , or novels . Some courses also explore revision, publishing basics, and how to give and receive feedback on your work.

Do I need writing experience to take a creative writing course?

Not at all. Many courses are beginner-friendly and help you build skills gradually. Whether you’re just starting out or returning to writing after a break, you’ll find courses that guide you through the creative process.

Can creative writing courses on Coursera help me become a published writer?

Yes. While publication depends on your goals and dedication, Coursera courses can help you strengthen your writing , complete drafts, and explore publishing options. Many learners use these courses to build a portfolio, start a book, or develop professional writing habits.

Top Creative Writing Courses - Learn Creative Writing Online

Find the Best Creative Writing Course for Your Goals

Status: Free Trial
Berklee
Copyright Law in the Music Business
Skills you'll gain: Intellectual Property, Lawsuits, Music, Legal Proceedings, Musical Composition, Legal Strategy, Law, Regulation, and Compliance, Digital Assets
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
694 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
Infosec
Computer Forensics
Skills you'll gain: File Systems, Microsoft Windows, Cybersecurity, TCP/IP, Network Protocols, Data Security, Information Systems Security, Litigation Support, Network Security, Operating Systems, Data Structures, General Networking, Data Validation, Record Keeping, Data Integrity, Data Storage, Data Analysis Software, User Accounts, USB, System Configuration
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
321 reviews
Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months
Status: New
Status: Free Trial
Vanderbilt University
AI Agents and Agentic AI with Python & Generative AI
Skills you'll gain: Generative AI Agents, Python Programming, Agentic systems, Generative AI, Artificial Intelligence, OpenAI, ChatGPT, Prompt Engineering, Software Development Tools, Application Development, Prototyping, Automation, Large Language Modeling, Interoperability, Systems Integration, Software Documentation, Design Strategies, File Management
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
105 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of California, Davis
Google SEO Capstone Project
Skills you'll gain: Search Engine Optimization, Keyword Research, Web Analytics and SEO, Competitive Analysis, Peer Review, Presentations, Content Strategy, Digital Marketing, Proposal Writing, Client Services, Technical Consulting, Performance Metric
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
475 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
IBM
Data Scientist Career Guide and Interview Preparation
Skills you'll gain: Professional Networking, Interviewing Skills, Professional Development, Presentations, Data Science, Company, Product, and Service Knowledge, Recruitment, Talent Sourcing, Writing, Business Research, Portfolio Management, Data Analysis, Job Analysis, Applicant Tracking Systems, Problem Solving, Communication, Python Programming
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
250 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free
Coursera Project Network
Use WordPress to Create a Blog for your Business
Skills you'll gain: WordPress, Blogs, Content Management Systems, Web Content, Editing, Business Writing, Content Creation, User Accounts, E-Commerce
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
1.6K reviews
Beginner · Guided Project · Less Than 2 Hours
Coursera Project Network
Understanding Basic SQL Syntax
Skills you'll gain: SQL, Query Languages, Data Access, Relational Databases, Data Manipulation
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
304 reviews
Beginner · Guided Project · Less Than 2 Hours
California Institute of the Arts
Approaching Music Theory: Melodic Forms and Simple Harmony
Skills you'll gain: Music Theory, Music, Musical Composition, Classical Music, Music History, Instrumental Music, Music Performance, World Music
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
165 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of California, Irvine
Writing Skills for University Success
Skills you'll gain: Writing, Research, Grammar, Editing, Intellectual Property, Organizational Skills, Ethical Standards And Conduct
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
56 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
Northwestern University
Engagement & Nurture Marketing Strategies
Skills you'll gain: Blogs, Social Media Marketing, Marketing Strategies, Social Media Strategy, Social Media, Content Marketing, Marketing Effectiveness, Target Market, Customer Engagement, Content Creation, Lead Generation, Multimedia
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
1.2K reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
École Polytechnique
Quantum Optics 1 : Single Photons
Skills you'll gain: Physics, Experimentation, Quantitative Research, Cryptography, Mathematical Modeling, Applied Mathematics, Engineering, Scientific, and Technical Instruments, Emerging Technologies
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
332 reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of California, Irvine
Concurrency in Go
Skills you'll gain: Go (Programming Language), Algorithms, OS Process Management, System Programming, Operating Systems, Computer Architecture
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
770 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks