creative writing certificate online canada

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Creative Writing Certificate (Online)

Program highlights.

Pursue your passion for writing in a guided environment. The courses in this certificate have been designed to let you acquire and fine-tune the elements of your craft, expand your writing style and publish your work. You will receive motivation, structure and creative encouragement from experienced faculty as well as your online class mates. Understanding the business process of becoming a published author will help you work with agents, editors and publishers in today's popular media.

Is This You?

You will be practicing writing extensively and receive regular constructive feedback that will let you improve on your style, grammar, organization and vision. The core courses will hone your core skills, while the electives in this certificate will allow you to improve in your specific writing genres.

You can choose to take individual courses, if you do not wish to pursue a Creative Writing certificate.

Career Prospects

• Short Story Writing
• Online contributor
• Proofreading and editing
• Resume builder for teachers and Early Childhood Educators

Recommended skills and pre-requisites

Basic Windows computer and Internet skills (managing files and folders).

Courses in Creative Writing Certificate (Online)

Details and registration below

• Writing for Publication I (COMM071)
• Grammar for Writing Professionals (LANG028)
• Creative Writing - Beginners (COMM076)

Electives - choose 4

• Essentials of Writing Fiction (COMM158)
• Understanding Literature (COMM077)
• Writing for Publication II (COMM074)
• Writing Short Stories (COMM070)
• Introduction to Children's Literature (COMM053)
• Romance Writing (COMM102)
• Poetry Writing (ARTS0411)
• Writing Grammatically (LANG035)

Certificates must be completed within five years. Once you have completed all certificate requirements, please contact us again for your official certification.

Writing for Publication I

Examine the publishing process and available opportunities for writers as well as the key elements of major genres. You will follow the various steps of manuscript preparation, from query letter to polished final draft and on to professional submission.

Choose a course date

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Grammar for Writing Professionals

Gain experience in the editing and proofreading process, recognizing and correcting errors in accordance with accepted Canadian standards. You will also study the importance of working as part of an editing team to help produce acceptable full length manuscripts. You should already possess competent English language skills including basic grammar (or Writing Grammatically - LANG 35).

Creative Writing - Beginners

Beginner writers and those with previous writing experience will hone their skills, benefit from a series of exercises and get involved in creative writing and critical reading. Workshop your own exercises and stories and receive valuable critique from fellow participants and the instructor.

Essentials of Writing Fiction

Discover the core elements needed for creative writing. Gain an understanding of the process of creative writing including theme, setting, plotting, characterization, and the use of dialogue, enabling you to successfully discover your writer's voice and build confidence in your writing abilities.

Understanding Literature

Acquire the tools necessary to appreciate literature critically by reviewing literary history and examining different genres. You will explore themes and conventions associated with these genres and develop an understanding of literary analysis and various critical approaches. For creative-writing enthusiasts, this course will provide a framework in which to appreciate and evaluate their own writing.

Writing for Publication II

Discover the publishing process with specific focus on the Canadian magazine trade. You will be encouraged to develop your ideas into acceptable compositions and to approach suitable publishers for your work.

There are currently no course dates scheduled. Please check back soon.

We'll send you an email when Fall registration opens.

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Writing Short Stories

Explore character development, narrative unity, and plot construction by analyzing selected short stories and participating in writing exercises. Work step-by-step to produce a story suitable for publication. The process of submission for publication as well as the various opportunities for publication are examined.

Introduction to Children's Literature

Explore children's literature, its history and development, and its rich variety of forms and techniques. We will focuses on major authors in children's literature and on the important issues presented in those works that have captivated children and adult readers over time. (This subject may contain material that some may find offensive.)

Romance Writing

Explore the art and craft of writing for the growing romance fiction market. Through lectures, examples, and lots of research, you will develop skills in creating engrossing plots and settings, and engaging characters, as well as keeping abreast the growing and changing market for romance oriented fiction.

Poetry Writing

Develop skills necessary for the creation, development, and marketing of publishable poems.

Writing Grammatically

Catch up on the rules of English grammar in a comprehensive, easy-to-follow manner. We will review sentence parts, explain sentence structuring in depth, and conduct a practical review of stylistic conventions in business writing.

Continuing Education

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Course Materials

Some courses require additional textbooks and/or materials. Please visit your campus store in-person or online:

• Peterborough Campus Store
• Lindsay Campus Store

Continuing Education & Corporate Training Office

705-749-5530 ext. 1502 1-888-269-6929

[email protected]

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Creative Writing Certificate

Are you motivated to put pen to paper? Do you have an idea or have you started a creative writing draft? If so, this focused, engaging and supportive program may be perfect for you. The program covers many aspects of the creative writer's world from writing development, copy editing, genre writing, time management, publishing, and promotion. The evaluative and interactive format will ensure you receive ample instructor feedback and supportive peer review throughout the program. In the final project course, a portion of your creative work will be evaluated by a published author who will mentor and encourage you in your writing journey.

This online, flexible and interactive program will allow you to learn the theory behind your writing and allow time to receive instructor and peer feedback about what you've written. All courses are taught by published authors, many who have received national and international awards.

To get started in the program you are required to provide a short writing sample. You will receive valuable expert feedback specific to character, setting, dialogue, point of view, and writing mechanics. The writing sample is your opportunity to share what you like to write about and how you write it. See details below under How to apply .

This is one of three writing certificate programs offered online through Continuing Education. The other programs are:

• Professional Writing Certificate specializing in Business and Technical Writing
• Professional Writing Certificate specializing in Marketing and Public Relations

View course timetable

This program is perfect if you...

• Write – or aspire to write – fiction, creative non-fiction or poetry
• Want to transition from or add to corporate or journalistic writing and explore creative writing
• Would like to learn from published authors
• Enjoy online learning in a supportive and interactive environment

What will I get?

Students who complete this program will receive a Professional Certificate .

Graduate: Karen White

Now a graduate of the Creative Writing Certificate, Karen says she finally feels comfortable calling herself a writer.

Watch video

Program details

Course delivery online.

Courses in this program are delivered online . Some courses may be occasionally offered in the classroom at the main campus. Courses are scheduled at convenient times, allowing you to complete the program at a pace that fits your life.

You should plan on studying and working approximately 6 hours per week per course .

Online learning fits into busy schedules by taking the learning experience out of the traditional classroom. Students have online access to instructors, fellow learners, and learning materials.

Before taking your first online course, we recommended taking our free course: Digital Skills for Learning Online

Timeline and planning 200 Hours

All Continuing Education programs are developed with part-time learners in mind. The Creative Writing Certificate is a 200-hour program .

The length of time it takes to complete this program varies by student. If you take one course per term (four courses a year), you will likely complete the program in 12 to 18 months . You will complete the program faster if you take multiple courses per term.

View upcoming courses...

Cost $4,519

The approximate cost to complete the Creative Writing Certificate is $4,519 .

This includes the $130 admission fee.

How to apply

You do not require a degree or diploma to apply for admission to this program. You can take individual courses to start, and apply later.

The admission fee is $130 .

To apply, you must meet the following requirements:

• 18 years of age or older
• Grade 12 diploma (recommended)
• Relevant work experience (recommended)
• If English is not your first language, you must meet the English language proficiency requirements

Programs change from time to time, so we recommend that you apply for admission as early as possible. Once admitted, your requirements to complete the program will not change – even if the program changes. You can be confident that completed and eligible courses will apply to your program.

Writing Assessment and Certificate Admission

When you apply to the Creative Writing Certificate , you are required to submit a creative writing sample. The sample should be a total of 2 – 4 pages, double-spaced. If you wish to submit a poetry sample, an additional sample of prose is requested.

* guidelines for the writing sample here *

Please complete the certificate admission application and upload your creative writing sample using the link below. The non-refundable admission fee is $130.

Credit for prior learning

Prior learning from other post-secondary institutions.

Advanced standing may be granted for equivalent, graded courses completed at other post-secondary institutions. Credit may be granted up to a maximum of 60 hours towards this program.

Transferring credit from other Continuing Education programs

If you have completed requirements for another University of Calgary Continuing Education program, you may be able to transfer some credits to this program. For details, please review the "Credit towards other programs" information in the programs you have completed. To transfer credits, please contact a student advisor .

Maximum advanced standing and transferred credit

The combined total of advanced standing and transferred credits cannot exceed 100 hours for this program.

Credit towards other programs

On completion of this program, you may wish to pursue studies in another.

Upon completing Program Title , up to 100 hours of equivalent courses may be transferred towards the Professional Writing Certificate specializing in Business and Technical Writing and the Professional Writing Certificate specializing in Marketing and Public Relations . The number of hours will vary based on certificate requirements and courses.

If you wish to pursue another program:

• Complete the Application for Admission for your next program
• Contact us to request transfer of the equivalent course credits

The transfer of course credits will not happen without your request.

Scholarships

Each year, scholarships and awards are given to deserving students not only for their academic achievement, but also for community involvement. Award sponsors include both corporate and private donors.

To apply, you must meet eligibility criteria and submission deadlines. Students in this program may be eligible for the following awards:

• Continuing Education Endowment Award
• Continuing Education Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Entrance Awards
• Continuing Education Indigenous Entrance Awards
• Culbert Family Award for Philanthropy

Career connections

How to graduate.

It is the student's responsibility to ensure all requirements for graduation are fulfilled.

See Graduation for details.

International students

This program does not qualify students to apply for an international study permit.

International students who wish to live and work in Canada should consider our International Professional Programs .

Special offer Get a 5% discount

Receive a discount of 5% per course by registering for three or more courses at the same time.

Register online or by calling 403-220-2866 or 1-866-220-4992. Some restrictions may apply (i.e., all courses must take place within the current academic year).

Note: WRI 500 Creative Writing Final Project is not eligible for the discount.

Questions? Please contact us...

Additional details, core courses.

110 Hour(s)

Creative Writing Courses

150 Hour(s)

Optional Courses

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Creative Writing

Online option, online full-time programs.

Online full-time programs are offered as either Daytime, or a combination of Evenings and Saturdays. Check your program Dates and Times to see what the program commitment will be.

Find out more about Full-Time Online programs

Humber is proud to have the highest graduate employment and employer satisfaction rate of the GTA colleges based on Colleges Ontario’s key performance indicators for college graduates in 2022-2023.

Program Overview

Humber’s Creative Writing graduate certificate program helps you improve your writing from the comfort of home. You’ll work one-on-one with a professional writer-mentor to improve your draft book-length project, learning how to develop plot, character, dialogue, style and more through feedback on your own manuscript.

Humber is noted for its exceptional creative writing mentors including authors of world stature. Past mentors include Martin Amis, Peter Carey, Miriam Toews, David Mitchell, Esi Edugyan, Nino Ricci, Margaret Atwood, Lawrence Hill, Anne Michaels, Edward Albee, Ha Jin and Alistair MacLeod. Recent international authors have included Jenny Offill, Nell Freudenberger and Samantha Harvey.  

We've recently added a playwright and a screenplay writer to our list of available mentors –   giving you the opportunity to complete a large body of work which may be all or parts of a full-length novel, memoir, feature-length screenplay or multi-character play; or a collection of poetry, short fiction or creative nonfiction essays.  

This is a project-based program in which you meet the learning outcomes by working through your own manuscript.  As well, you will attend weekly online classes synchronously or asynchronously to discuss craft, readings and the writing process to support your development.  

This program is not available to international applicants.

At Humber, courses are delivered in a variety of formats:

In-Person - An in-person course is delivered fully on campus.

Online Asynchronous (A) - An online asynchronous course has no fixed class schedule and allows students to engage with the course at different times according to their needs. Faculty provide modules, which are completed independently by the students according to established deadlines.

Online Synchronous (S) - An online synchronous course is delivered fully online and requires faculty and students to participate in real-time according to a fixed schedule. Classes are scheduled for a specific day and time.

Hybrid - A hybrid course is a combination of in-person and online classes and follows a set schedule. Students must be available to attend in-person classes at scheduled times during the semester.

The chart below outlines the delivery options available for each course in this program, by campus. For some academic terms, there may be more than one delivery option available. You’ll be able to select your preferred options when building your course schedule during open enrolment. Preferences for course delivery will be considered on a first come, first served basis. Some Humber programs are also delivered fully online, where all courses are delivered online.

International students: the impact of studying from outside of Canada on Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility differs significantly based on when you start your program. Please review the PGWP eligibility before choosing your program and course delivery.

Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) at Humber

Work-integrated learning.

Work-integrated learning opportunities prepare you for your future career. You will apply what you’ve learned in class and in real-world environments through a wide range of academic, community and industry partnerships. These work-integrated learning opportunities may include field experiences, professional practicums and co-operative education.

Field Experience

A field experience offers students an opportunity to engage in intensive experiences related to their field of study or career goals to build their skills, knowledge and abilities. Field experiences may be paid or unpaid.

Professional Practicum

Programs requiring a professional practicum offer practice-based experience or work hours for a professional license or certification. Students work under the direct supervision of an experienced professional. Placements are unpaid.

Co-operative Education

Students in co-op programs gain experience through paid work terms in their field of study that become progressively more complex as their skill level increases.

Optional Co-operative Education

Students in co-op programs gain experience through paid work terms in their field of study that become progressively more complex as their skill level increases. The co-op portion of this program is optional.

If you would like to learn more about work-integrated learning at Humber, visit WIL AT HUMBER

The Humber Advantage

• FACULTY BY TERM
• INFO SESSION
• SHORT STORY CONTEST
• SUMMER WORKSHOP
• MA IN CREATIVE WRITING
• SCHOLARSHIPS

Watch the "Power Up Your Credential!" Info Session to learn more about the Creative Writing program.

Check out our Frequently Asked Questions section or read more on How to Apply .

Toronto Star Short Story Contest

Submit your short story online at: The Star Website

Deadline for submissions: February 28, 2024, 5:00 p.m. ET

An esteemed panel of judges will select the three winners from a first round of finalists as determined by Humber School for Writers faculty. The winners will be celebrated and their stories published in the Toronto Star and at The Star Website .

First Prize: $5,000 Plus tuition for one of two great programs at the Humber School for Writers: The Creative Writing Graduate Certificate or the Summer Workshop in Creative Writing.

Second Prize: $2,000

Third Prize: $1,000

Since 1992, the School for Writers has offered an immersive, focused workshop to jump start your creative writing. Mornings are spent in classes with one of Humber’s esteemed writing advisors, and afternoons are devoted to craft and industry talks by faculty, publishing experts and special guests. Whether you’re a beginner or a more experienced writer, there’s something for you in this six-day workshop!

Workshop Rebate

The Creative Writing by Correspondence Program is a complement to the Humber Summer Workshop in Creative Writing, the two together comprising a flexible and affordable alternative to a standard low-residency MFA.

Students who complete the Graduate Certificate are eligible for a rebate for the Summer Workshop, and vice versa. The rebate is valid for three academic years.

“Humber School for Writers was one of my first experiences with writing workshops. I was amazed by how my work jumped to a new level in such a short period of time due to the generosity, experience, and intelligence of my peers and mentors. I said I’d do it again, and I did! Two summers in a row.”

-  Madhur Anand,  Author , A New Index for Predicting Catastrophes

Graduates Offered Advanced Standing in University of Gloucestershire Distance MA in Creative Writing

Humber Creative Writing by Correspondence graduates can work towards a master’s degree from the comfort of their own homes! Thanks to a new arrangement, graduates are eligible for advanced standing in the highly regarded University of Gloucestershire (U.K.) distance MA Creative Writing program. Furthermore, this pathway may lead to a PhD for those who qualify.

Scholarship Support for Aspiring Authors

All scholarships are available to Canadian residents only, and Appel scholarships are available to Ontario residents only. Scholarship applications become available in August and December. Information on how to apply can be found at the link below.

If you are awarded a scholarship, payment will come some weeks after the program begins. You must make payment up front and be reimbursed later.

September 2024 Faculty

Madhur Anand

Madhur Anand's debut book of prose This Red Line Goes Straight to Your Heart (2020, Strange Light/M&S) won the Governor General's Literary Award for Nonfiction.

Dennis Bock

Dennis Bock is a Canadian novelist and short story writer. His newest novel, The Good German , was published in September 2020 and has been lauded by Margaret Atwood as "a cunning, twisted, compelling tale of deeply unexpected consequences."

Danila Botha

Danila Botha is the critically acclaimed author of two short story collections, Got No Secrets, and For All the Men (and Some of the Women) I've Known, which was a finalist for the Trillium Book Award, The Vine Awards and The ReLit Award.

Trevor Cole

An editor and writer for more than 30 years, Trevor Cole has won nine National Magazine Awards, including three gold medals.

Antonio Michael Downing

Antonio Michael Downing grew up in southern Trinidad, Northern Ontario, Brooklyn, and Kitchener. He is an author, musician and speaker based in Toronto.

Marina Endicott

Joseph Kertes

Joseph Kertes founded Humber College's creative writing and comedy programs and was the recipient of numerous awards for teaching and innovation.

Judy I. Lin

Judy I. Lin, #1 New York Times-bestselling author of the Book of Tea duology ( A Magic Steeped in Poison and A Venom Dark and Sweet ), was born in Taiwan and immigrated to Canada with her family at a young age.

Evan Morgan

Evan Morgan is a Toronto based writer/director with a background in feature-length and short films.

Alison Pick

Alison Pick is most recently the author of the novel STRANGERS WITH THE SAME DREAM (September 2017).

Richard Scarsbrook

Richard Scarsbrook is the award-winning author of ten books: the novels  Cheeseburger Subversive , Featherless Bipeds , The Monkeyface Chronicles , Nothing Man and The Purple Zero , The Indifference League ,  Rockets Versus Gravity , and  The Troupers , the short story collection  Destiny’s Telescope , and the poetry books  Six Weeks  and  Apocalypse One Hundred .

Shyam Selvadurai

Shyam Selvadurai's first novel  Funny Boy , won the W.H. Smith/ Books in Canada First Novel Award and the Lambda Literary Award in the US. He is the author of  Cinnamon Gardens  and  Swimming in the Monsoon Sea , and the editor of an anthology,  Story-wallah! A Celebration of South Asian Fiction .

Richard Scrimger

Richard Scrimger has written adult novels, opinion pieces, and screenplays, but is best known for his quirky children’s books. There are a couple dozen of those. He’s won an award or two, been shortlisted for lots more, and given writing workshops around the world.

Sarah Sheard

Sarah Sheard, novelist, editor, and multidisciplinary artist, has published numerous personal essays, reviews, short fiction and four literary novels ( Almost Japanese, The Swing Era, The Hypnotist, Krank: Love in the New Dark Times ).

Craig Shreve

Craig Shreve is a fiction author from North Buxton, Ontario. He is a former student in the Humber Creative Writing program (2008).

Antanas Sileika

Antanas Sileika particularly enjoys working with students on humour, historical fiction, and stories set in East and Central Europe. Sileika’s latest memoir is called The Death of Tony , and the one before that was called "dead-on funny" by Miriam Toews.

Cordelia Strube

Cordelia Strube is an accomplished playwright and the author of 11 critically acclaimed novels including Alex & Zee, Teaching Pigs to Sing and Lemon.

Sam Wiebe is the author of the Wakeland novels, one of the most authentic and acclaimed detective series in Canada, including Invisible Dead, Cut You Down, Hell and Gone , and the latest, Sunset and Jericho .

January 2024 Faculty

David Bergen

David Bergen is the author of eight novels and two collections of short stories. His work has been nominated for the Governor General’s Literary Award, the Impac Dublin Literary Award, and a Pushcart Prize.

Giles Blunt

Giles Blunt grew up in North Bay, Ontario, a small city similar to the Algonquin Bay of the John Cardinal novels. After studying English literature at the University of Toronto, he moved to New York City, where he lived for the next twenty years, before moving back to Toronto in 2002.

Karen Connelly

Author of twelve books of poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, Karen Connelly is a writer, educator and therapist in private practice.

Beverley Cooper

Beverley Cooper is an award-winning playwright, dramaturge and teacher. She has written for TV, film and extensively for CBC radio drama, twice being nominated for Writers’ Guild of Canada Awards.

Elisabeth de Mariaffi

Elisabeth de Mariaffi is the critically acclaimed author of four books: most recently, The Retreat (2021), is a snowbound thriller about a dancer who must separate truth from lies in order to survive a deadly storm at a remote mountain arts retreat.

Adam Foulds

Adam Foulds has been the recipient of a number of literary awards, including the Sunday Times Young Writer of the Year, the Costa Poetry Prize, the Somerset Maugham Award, the South Bank Show Prize for Literature, the E. M. Forster Award, the Encore Award, and the European Union Prize for Literature.

Camilla Gibb

Camilla Gibb is the author of four novels— Mouthing the Words, The Petty Details of So-and-so's Life, Sweetness in the Belly  and  The Beauty of Humanity Movement— and has been the recipient of the Trillium Book Award, the City of Toronto Book Award and the CBC Canadian Literary Award and has been short listed for the Scotiabank Giller Prize. 

Ashley Little

Ashley Little has written three novels for young adults and two novels for adults. Her work has won the Ethel Wilson Fiction Prize and the Sheila A. Egoff Children’s Literature Prize, been a finalist for the ReLit Award, The City of Vancouver Book Award, and more.

Carrie Mac writes stories that she wants to read. Her latest book is the literary novel Last Winter (Random House, 2023). She has also authored contemporary novels for teens, speculative YA, literary short fiction, and creative non-fiction.

Colin McAdam

Colin McAdam is the author of four internationally acclaimed novels, which have been nominated for the Scotiabank Giller Prize, the Rogers Writers' Trust Fiction Prize, the Governor General's Literary Award, and the Commonwealth Writers' Prize, among others.

Pamela Mordecai

Pamela Mordecai’s debut novel, Red Jacket , was shortlisted for the Rogers Writers’ Trust Fiction Award (2015). She has published seven collections of poetry, five children’s books, and a collection of short fiction, Pink Icing , recently released as an audiobook in ECW's Bespeak Editions.

Donna Morrissey

Donna Morrissey has published six award-winning and nationally best-selling novels through Penguin Canada. She has received awards in Canada, the U.S. and England and her novel, Sylvanus Now was shortlisted for the Commonwealth Prize.

Waubgeshig Rice

Waubgeshig Rice is an author and journalist from Wasauksing First Nation on Georgian Bay. He has written three fiction titles, and his short stories and essays have been published in numerous anthologies.

Dianne Warren

Dianne Warren is a fiction writer from western Canada. She is the author of six books of fiction, including the novel Cool Water , which won the Governor General’s Award for Fiction in 2010.

January 2025 Faculty

Lana Button

Lana Button is the award-winning author of more than a dozen books for children. Lana’s books have been translated into 5 different languages and have received the Crystal Kite Award, the Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Award and the IBBY Outstanding Book for Young Children.

Sidura Ludwig

Sidura Ludwig is an award-winning author of books for adults and children. Her short-story collection You Are Not What We Expected (House of Anansi, 2020) won the Vine Literary Award for Fiction and was shortlisted for the Danuta Gleed Award.

Harriet Alida Lye

Harriet Alida Lye is the author of the novels The Honey Farm and Let It Destroy You , the memoir Natural Killer and the children's picture book, Serge the Snail .

Carrie Mac writes stories that she wants to read. Her latest book is the best-selling literary novel Last Winter (Random House, 2023). She has also authored contemporary novels for teens, speculative YA, literary short fiction, and creative non-fiction.

Pamela Mordecai’s debut novel, Red Jacket , was shortlisted for the Rogers Writers’ Trust Fiction Award (2015).

Alexandra Shimo

Alexandra Shimo has been mentoring writers since 2015. A former editor with Maclean’s, she is the co-author of the bestselling memoir  Up Ghost River: A Chief’s Journey Through the Turbulent Waters of Native History , and author of the memoir  Invisible North: The Search for Answers on A Troubled Reserve .

Sandra SG Wong

Sandra SG Wong writes fiction across genres, currently including suspense, hard-boiled PI, noir, contemporary romance, and speculative fiction.

Expert Faculty

• FACULTY HIGHLIGHTS

David Bezmozgis

David Bezmozgis is an award-winning writer and filmmaker. He is the author of the story collections  Immigrant City  and  Natasha and Other Stories  and the novels  The Betrayers  and  The Free World . David’s stories have appeared in numerous publications including  The New Yorker ,  Harper's ,  Zoetrope All-Story , and The Walrus . His books have been nominated for the Scotiabank/Giller Prize, The Governor General's Literary Award, the Trillium Book Award, and won the Amazon.ca First Novel Award and the National Jewish Book Award. ‹ In the summer of 2010, David was included in  The New Yorker's  20 Under 40 issue, celebrating the twenty most promising fiction writers under the age of forty. ‹ A graduate of the University of Southern California's School of Cinematic Arts, David's first feature film,  Victoria Day , premiered in competition at the Sundance Film Festival in 2009. His second feature was an adaptation of his story "Natasha."

David is a professor and the creative director of the Humber School for Writers where he also hosts the writing podcast  Love & Defiance .

Alissa York

Your career.

The main goal of the program is to improve your writing, and publication is a possibility for some. Graduates of this program may use their writing and editing skills in a wide variety of careers and professions in addition to writing books. Some of our graduates write for the web, newspapers, magazines, television   and other media.  

More than 300 Humber School for Writers alumni have published books. Dr. Vincent Lam, who won the 2006 Scotiabank Giller Prize for his literary debut, Bloodletting & Miraculous Cures , is just one of our distinguished former students. Other alumni have been on the bestseller lists in Canada: Suzanne Desrochers for  Bride of New France , Cathy Marie Buchanan for  The Painted Girls,  Shari Lapena for  The Couple Next Door , and Eva Stachniak for  The Chosen Maiden .  

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Program Availability

Humber is a publicly-funded institution and does not have a public-private partnership. International students graduating from Humber or Humber’s International Graduate School (IGS) are eligible to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit .

International Students in Canada who apply for September 2024 start could be eligible for an automatic scholarship*. Apply now

Please note the new International Admissions Process and Provincial Attestation Letters. Read the update

International Students Out of Canada can Apply through Humber International

Upcoming Recruitment Events

Program delivery types.

Block-based: Students select a pre-set weekly schedule of courses that best meets their needs. Block-Based schedules may include in-person, hybrid and online courses.

Course-based: Students create their own schedule of courses from among in-person, hybrid and online options.

Condensed Week - Courses requiring students to come to campus are scheduled over 2-3 days per week. Online courses are scheduled on other days.

Online - Courses are scheduled only online and may be delivered asynchronously, where students study independently or synchronously, where students attend the online class on a specified time and day.

Twilight - In-person, online synchronous and hybrid courses are generally scheduled after 3:00pm.

Twilight-Online: Online synchronous courses are generally scheduled after 3:00 pm.

This program is part of:

Find Out More  

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Designs Created by Fast Students Unveiled at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas

Wed, February 01, 2023

Prof. George Paravantes (FMCA) and Dr. Dennis L. Kappen (FAST) proudly unveiled the results of the 2022 ARROW HMI - Humber Industrial Design competition.

Interior Design Students Visit Toronto’s Newest Athletic Fashion Stored

Our Interior Design students headed downtown to visit Toronto’s newest athletic fashion store and its unique design.

Bachelor of Interior Design Students Gain Inspiration From Idea Exchange at Designto

Our 4th year Bachelor of Interior Design students attended Mason Studio for an Idea Exchange as part of DesignTO.

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How to Apply

Domestic students.

Applications to Humber are made through ontariocolleges.ca . Be sure to submit your application by July 15, 2024 to receive your Application Fee Credit. Applications for September will remain open as long as the program availability status shows Open.

To check program availability refer to the Campus/Availability listing on Humber’s program pages, search by availability , or ontariocolleges.ca .

To see where you are in the admissions process, visit the Admissions Road Map .

International Students

If you’re an international student, you can apply directly to Humber via our International Centre .

Admissions Questions

General enquiries.

Call 416-675-3111 or email [email protected] . If you have already applied, be sure to check your application status on myhumber.ca .

Domestic Applicants Enquiries

Domestic applicants can book a one-on-one advising appointment with an admissions representative.

International Applicants Enquiries

Contact the International Centre for information about full-time programs (including the International Graduate School), how to apply and to follow up on your submitted application.

Program-Specific Questions

Speak to the Program Co-ordinator about the course curriculum, projects and career options.

Alissa York, program co-ordinator 416.675.6622 ext. 3448 [email protected]

Campus Information

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How To Become An Apprentice

Becoming an apprentice.

Find an employer willing to sponsor you as an apprentice.

Contact the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development to register as an apprentice.

Work with your employer approximately one year before attending Humber.

View Instructions  

Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP)

If you’re in high school – grade 11 or 12 – you can earn co-op education credits through work placements in some skilled trades.

Visit OYAP  

Applications to Humber are made through ontariocolleges.ca . Be sure to submit your application by the equal consideration deadline of February 1. You may apply after February 1, however, post-February 1 applications will be considered on a first-come, first-served basis depending on the availability of the space in the program.

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Get help narrowing down your program options or book a one-on-one pre-enrolment advising appointment with one of our Recruitment Officers.

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Book a virtual appointment with a Student Mobility Advisor learn more about getting Transfer Credit(s) for previous post-secondary experience, Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR), and Pathways options.

Admission Requirements

Admission selection is based on the academic criteria indicated. Meeting minimum eligibility requirements does not guarantee admission.

Admission selection is based on the following five requirements:

To be eligible for admission, you must possess the following:

• A bachelor’s degree, diploma, advanced diploma or equivalent

Mature Applicants

Diplomas and certificates.

An applicant is considered a mature applicant if they have not completed secondary school or other postsecondary school, and will be 19 or older as of the first day of classes. Humber will invite you for testing to demonstrate that you meet all listed course requirements.

An applicant is considered a mature applicant if they have not completed secondary school or attended postsecondary studies, and will be 21 or older as of the first day of classes. Mature applicants for degree programs will be required to meet course requirements at the U/M level or equivalent.

College Transfer Applicants

An applicant is considered a college transfer applicant if they have completed some or all of a college-level credential. Humber may use a combination of secondary school and/or college courses and grades to determine program eligibility.

An applicant is considered a college transfer applicant if they have completed some or all of a college-level credential. Humber may use a combination of secondary school and/or college courses and grades to determine program eligibility. Applicants must have an overall minimum grade point average (GPA) of 65 per cent in the program. Applicants are required to disclose and provide academic transcripts for all course work completed at the postsecondary level.

University Transfer Applicants

An applicant is considered a university transfer applicant if they have completed some or all of a university-level credential. Humber may use a combination of secondary school and/or university courses and grades to determine program eligibility.

An applicant is considered a university transfer applicant if they have completed some or all of a university-level credential. Humber may use a combination of secondary school and/or university courses and grades to determine program eligibility. Applicants are required to disclose and provide academic transcripts for all course work completed at the postsecondary level.

Cover Letter

Please submit a cover letter describing the single book-length project you intend to work on in the program, your writing experience, and any relevant life experience. The letter should be no more than two pages, double-spaced in 12-point font. Please include your name and email address, and submit as MS Word or PDF.

Writing Sample

Please submit a sample of your writing that is no more than 15 pages in length. Ideally, the writing sample should be taken from the project you intend to work on in the program. If this is not possible, please submit a sample in the same form/genre (e.g., fiction if you intend to work on a novel). The manuscript must be prepared according to professional standards: double-spaced, 12-point font, with name, title and page number on each page. Please submit as MS Word or PDF.

Submission Instructions

English Language Proficiency

All applicants whose first language is not English must meet Humber’s English Language Proficiency Policy .

International Credit Evaluation

Canadian citizens or permanent residents with international education are required to provide a credential evaluation. Note, for international High school education course by course evaluations, ICAS must be used. For international post-secondary education, a WES evaluation must be provided. In situations where you expect to apply for transfer credit, it is recommended that a course by course WES evaluation is completed.

International Academic Equivalency

Admission equivalencies for Humber depend on your country of study. Please enter your location or choose detect my location to see the requirements for your country below.

Applying with an International Baccalaureate (IB)

Post-Admission Requirements

Once you have been accepted, and have confirmed your offer, you may need to complete a further set of requirements related to your program (Post-Admission Requirements).

Equipment & Device Requirements

Fees & financial aid.

The 2024/2025 fee for two semesters is:

• domestic: $3,895.50
• international: $18,833.08

Fees are subject to change.

Fees by Semester

Domestic Fees by Semester

International Fees by Semester

*Plus Mandatory Health Insurance fee once per academic year: Fall start - $420 Winter start - $280 Summer start - $140

Financial Aid, Scholarships and Bursaries

Understand the costs associated with coming to Humber and explore resources available from first year to your final year on Student Fees and Financial Resources .

Scholarships

Humber scholarships.

Find out more about scholarships and bursaries that you may be eligible for, visit Student Scholarships . International students can visit International Student Scholarships .

Humber Bursaries

Bursaries are available for Certificate, Diploma and Degree programs primarily based on financial need, visit Humber Bursaries.

External Awards, Bursaries & Scholarships

Find out more information about external scholarships and bursaries, visit External Awards.

Indigenous Student Awards, Bursaries & Scholarships

Humber offers a variety of bursaries and scholarships for Indigenous students, visit Indigenous Student Awards.

Explore Opportunities through Humber Pathways

Humber Pathways include:

• Opportunities to build on your college education and complete your diploma or degree at Humber.
• Degree and graduate study opportunities at other institutions in Ontario, Canada and abroad.

Pathway Options

Below are a few examples of pathways into this program. For more information on a pathway, click the Details button. To see all of your possible pathway options, click the View All Pathways link underneath the table.

Additional information will be made available to students from their program before the beginning of the Winter term. Courses with in-person requirements will likely also have online components. The delivery mode of some courses is still being determined. Humber may need to change plans for in-person learning, subject to government and public health directives and/or additional health and safety considerations.

You can find a complete list of programs with downloads including program and course details at Current Student Resources  

Students in programs marked as online/in-person will have a combination of those two types of delivery. Additional information will be made available to students from their program in the first week of June. Courses with in-person requirements will likely also have online components. The delivery mode of some courses is still being determined. Humber may need to change plans for in-person learning, subject to government and public health directives and/or additional health and safety considerations.

Learning Outcomes:

Upon successful completion of the program, a graduate will:

Reflect on editorial feedback to determine core strengths and weaknesses of one’s own work.

Self-evaluate written work focusing on key elements of creative writing such as character, dialogue, plot, theme, setting, imagery and structure/form.

Apply techniques and strategies acquired through editorial feedback, self-evaluation, reading and self-directed learning to revise and improve one’s own writing.

Employ conventions of grammar, punctuation, spelling and other aspects of technical style within the context of narrative/poetic traditions to write in a clear and professional manner.

Revise and improve elements of literary style such as detail, diction, syntax, active voice, rhythm and tone to sustain reader engagement at the level of the sentence/line.

Manage point of view and associated issues of narrative/poetic voice such as the sociocultural identity and reliability of the narrator/speaker to create a consistent, convincing reading experience.

Employ a variety of research methods to support authentic, convincing writing in narrative/poetic forms.

Explore techniques and strategies used in published works to assess for application to one’s own writing.

Identify prevailing genres, forms and submission requirements present in the publishing industry and literary community to discover professional options for writers.

Welcome to the Certificate in Creative Writing Across Contexts!

Learn the fundamentals of creative writing in a diversity of genres, media, cultures, and social contexts. This certificate positions creative writing as an expressive art form and frames it as an interdisciplinary and collaborative practice rather than a solitary pursuit.  

Gain concrete experience in all aspects of the writing process, including creating, workshopping, editing, publishing, and promoting your work; learn from successful writers; engage with Glendon’s Digital Media Lab and outdoor green spaces; and participate in a vibrant writing community at Glendon and beyond. You’ll also have the opportunity to take on a leadership role in creating a digital literary magazine and organizing the Michael Ondaatje Reading Series, which welcomes celebrated authors to campus. 

Learn about program details .

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• Skills You’ll Learn

Hands-On Experiences

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Skills You’ll Learn

• Confidently present your thoughts and opinions in creative forms 
• Explore a diversity of literary genres, media, cultures, and social contexts as both reader and writer 
• Learn about important issues in the writing and publishing industry 
• Work collaboratively with others in the creative writing and publishing sectors 
• Apply best practices for giving and receiving editorial feedback 

Upon completing the certificate, you’ll have gained meaningful experience that can lead to careers in fields such as:   

• Writing and editing    
• Publishing 
• Arts administration  
• Journalism   
• Communications   
• Teaching  
• Copywriting   
• Marketing  
• Proposal writing 

Visit the  Career Centre  for more career options.   

Apply the skills you’re developing to real-world challenges. Engage in guided practical experiences in the classroom, community and abroad. These are some opportunities for Certificate students: 

• Attend readings and Q&A sessions with famous authors, such as the bp nichol Reading Series and the Michael Ondaatje Reading Series, named after the author — who taught in Glendon’s English department.  
• Get the opportunity to meet and interact with creative writers — over the past five years, we have welcomed exciting writers such as Souvankham Thammavongsa, Alicia Elliott, Jesse Thistle, Heather O’Neill, Kathryn Mockler, Terese Mason Pierre, and Gary Barwin. 

Courses connected to the Certificate in Creative Writing Across Contexts (CWAC) are open to all students at York/Glendon, with the exception of GL/EN 4800 6.0 Writing and Community, which is open only to students who have completed most or all other Certificate courses.

Applicants should fall into one of the two categories:

• Concurrent Admission

Eligible students for the Concurrent option of the CWAC are students who:

• have been admitted to and registered in an existing undergraduate Honours degree program at Glendon or any Faculty at the University; and
• have completed at least 18 credits of their York undergraduate degree program or the equivalent credits at another recognized/accredited post-secondary institution
• Consecutive Admission

Eligible students for the Consecutive option of the CWAC are:

• those who have successfully completed a university undergraduate degree program at a recognized / accredited post-secondary institution
• applicants without prior university education admitted to the certificate program through Glendon’s mature student application

To apply to the CWAC, please contact Academic Services [email protected] .  

For questions about the CWAC, please contact Eric Schmaltz, Writer-on-the-Grounds [email protected] .

Glendon Campus prides itself on being a supportive community that goes the extra mile to ensure you get the help you need. See some of the resources Technical & Professional Communication students use the most.

Meet the Writer-on-the-Grounds

Eric Schmaltz is Glendon College’s Writer-on-the-Grounds, the coordinator of the Certificate in Creative Writing Across Contexts. He holds a Ph.D. in English with a specialization in Canadian and Avant-Garde literature. From 2018 to 2019, he was an SSHRC Postdoctoral Fellow in the Department of English at the University of Pennsylvania. 

Eric’s first book of poetry, Surfaces (Invisible Publishing), debuted on a Small Press Distribution’s bestseller list, and his aesthetically diverse creative work has since been performed and exhibited internationally in Toronto, Montreal, New York, Philadelphia, Athens, Dublin and elsewhere. He is also co-editor of the first critical edition of I Want to Tell You Love by bill bissett and Milton Acorn (University of Calgary Press).

Eric Schmaltz [email protected]

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Creative Writing Courses

The Writer’s Studio offers a wide selection of creative writing courses for writers of every genre, and at every stage of their writing journey. Our courses take place in Vancouver and online, and provide an ideal way to connect with our writing community, gain fresh perspectives and receive support to reach your writing goals.

Our courses are scheduled throughout the year and you’re welcome to register at any time. 

To explore our part-time creative writing program, workshops, open houses and other events, visit us at The Writer’s Studio . 

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Aspire to share your stories and ideas.

Virtual tour, explore our campuses online.

Learn what you can expect in a part-time AC Online Program.

Creative Writing

Are you an aspiring writer who enjoys sharing your stories and ideas with others enrol in this online college certificate program and explore your writing potential in a practical, constructive and goal-oriented academic environment..

• Develop your individual writing style while following accepted writing practices and concepts
• Benefit from supportive and experienced facilitators who are active in their industry
• Courses are built with flexibility in mind and can be accessed anytime and from anywhere

Apply your computer programming talent to launch a career creating games of strategy and skill.

Program Information

Program availability and schedule, availability.

Availability varies by course. Click here to view availability for courses in this program.

Given the part-time delivery of this program, there is not a standard schedule for all learners.

Program Summary

College Approved Certificate

Program Code

Area of Interest

To qualify for this certificate, you must complete the program within two years.

SUCCESS FACTORS... (read more)

Registration note:.

If you would like to take courses individually or start the program part time, you are not required to apply to the program. You can register for up to three courses per term by clicking on the course title and selecting "Register Online".

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

Enl0011 writing grammatically.

Students learn the rules of English grammar in a comprehensive, easy-to-follow manner. The course begins with a review of sentence parts, followed by an in-depth explanation of sentence structuring, and culminates in a practical review of stylistic conventions in business and professional writing.

ENL0012 Essentials of Writing Fiction

Core elements needed for creative writing are covered. Students gain an understanding of the process of creative writing including theme, setting, plotting, characterization and the use of dialogue, enabling them to successfully discover their writer's voice and build confidence in their writing abilities.

ENL0013 Understanding Literature

Students become familiar with the tools necessary to appreciate literature critically by reviewing literary history and examining different genres. Themes and conventions associated with these genres are explored and an understanding of literary analysis and various critical approaches is developed. For creative writing students, a framework in which to appreciate and evaluate their own writing is provided.

ENL0014 Writing Short Stories

This is an introductory course for the aspiring story writer who focuses on the particularities of this literary genre. Character development, narrative unity, and plot construction are explored by analyzing selected short stories and participating in writing exercises. Students follow a step-by-step approach to producing a story suitable for publication. The process of submission for publication, as well as the various opportunities for publication, are examined.

ENL5029 Romance Writing

Develop skills in creating intriguing plots, fascinating settings, engaging characters, and satisfying romances through examples and practical exercises.

ENL0006 Poetry Writing

Poetry is the undercurrent of the language. It is the pulse that makes writing dynamic. Poetry Writing provides the skills necessary for better writing and for the creation, development, and marketing of publishable poems.

Careers & Pathways

Please use our Pathways tool to search for pathway options.

Tuition & Fees

2024/2025 academic year, admissions requirements.

All applicants must satisfy both College Eligibility and Program Eligibility requirements.

Application Information

Additional information, program resources.

For additional information, please contact AC Online at [email protected] or 613-727-4723 ext. 3330.

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• Do you possess good written and oral communication skills? Yes No
• Are you self-directed in online learning environments? Yes No
• Do you enjoy the art of writing? Yes No

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Courses and certificates, upskill and reskill, discover professional programs, corporate learning, partner with western, post-degree diplomas, new january 2025 start, earn a digital badge, explore our micro-credentials, creative writing.

Discover your creative voice, sharpen your technical skills, and hone ideas in an engaging and supportive community environment. Creative writing courses provide you with the tools to develop fresh and vivid writing and emerge as a stronger, more skilled writer. 

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Diploma in Creative Writing

Your takeaways Program courses Elective courses Our approach Who benefits most?

You don't have to be a writer to get a lot out of this program, but if you are a writer, you'll be a much better one when you've completed your courses. Truth is, something here for just about anyone who wants to develop their creativity, find their voice and express themselves in a variety of genres, from children's writing, to travel writing, creative non-fiction and the autobiography.

You can probably get through life without taking a heavy-duty diesel mechanic's course, but every one of us could stand to improve our writing skills, be it for work or pleasure. Take a peek at the course listings, they make for compelling reading themselves. Select five out of seven courses and you are on your way!

To register, go to  Program courses , and select individually the course(s) you wish to enroll in.

Your takeaways

This program is a great way to help you:

• Explore a variety of different writing skills;
• Improve your ability to express yourself creatively;
• Develop your vision and voice as a storyteller;
• Learn various narrative techniques like character and plot development;
• Familiarize yourself with various aspects of the publishing world;
• Gain experience pitching your ideas to editors or publishers;
• Manage deadlines and expectations;
• Produce a piece of writing.

Program courses

To obtain this diploma, students must complete the following course and five (5) out of the eight (8) elective courses listed below. For course descriptions, schedules and registration, click on the links of each course.

• Intro to Creative Writing (CEJN 116)

Elective courses

To obtain this diploma, students must complete the above course and five (5) out of the eight (8) elective courses listed below. For course descriptions, schedules and registration, click on the links of each course.

• Basic Editing Practices (CEJN 110)
• Writing for Children (CEJN 118)
• Writing a Novella (CEJN 120)
• Creative Non-Fiction (CEJN 122)
• Travel Writing (CEJN 126)
• Writing Your Memoir (CEJN 134)
• Screenwriting (CEJN 136)
• Intro to Blogging (CEJN 144)

Our approach

The courses in this program are all about writing, so you'll be doing a lot of it. You'll also learn through interactive workshops, exercises, group discussions, and assignments. Enthusiastic participation and effort are the keys to enjoyment and success in this program.

Who benefits most?

• Anyone who wants to improve their writing skills.
• Anyone considering a career as a writer.
• Writers who want to branch out into new formats of writing.
• Advertising copywriters who want to hone new narrative skills.
• Retirees or business people who want to try something new to balance out their lives.
• Foreign students who want to improve their written English.
• Anyone with a story to tell.

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• Creative Non-Fiction

About this program

Creative non-fiction tells factual stories in a literary style. Acquire the tools to tell the true stories that matter to you by taking courses from some of Canada’s most celebrated writers and earn a Certificate in Creative Writing or a Certificate in Multimedia Journalism.

Registration makes you eligible to enter all of our Creative Writing Awards.

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Creative Writing Courses in Canada

• Updated on  
• Mar 3, 2023

As the name suggests, creative writing is a style where creativity is at the forefront and the imagination and aesthetic of the writer flow with each written word. Highly artistic individuals with an ability to connect to people through their writing, opt for this unique career path that offers a wide range of specializations. Creative writing goes beyond the bounds of academic and technical writing. It is a medium to express your feelings by jotting them down on the pages and complex subtleties of emotions related to them. The wide range of creative writing courses in Canada allows the aspirant to be well-versed with different composing styles and literary devices and reach great heights in the realm of writing.

Vaccination Rules for International Students Around the World!

This Blog Includes:

Why study creative writing in canada, list of creative writing courses in canada, types of creative writing courses in canada, certificate course, university of calgary, top colleges for creative writing courses in canada, specialisation, eligibility criteria, pre-arrival costs, cost of living (one-year), career scope .

• Canada is an excellent destination for pursuing creative writing programs as its home to big publishing companies like HarperCollins Canada, Penguin Random House Canada, Dundurn Press, and Scholastic Canada.
• The federal government in Canada has reported a tremendous increase in job opportunities in industries like marketing, digital marketing, and content development despite the ongoing COVID- pandemic making creative writing and copywriting an important skill.
• Studying creative writing courses in Canada is also the gateway to getting a post-study work visa and eventually permanent residency in the country. Students who have completed their degrees in Canada can stay back in the country and join the Canadian economic force. 

Explore: Study in Canada without IELTS

• Bachelor of Arts in English literature – Creative Writing
• Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing
• Bachelor of Arts in Writing
• Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing Program
• Master of Art with Creative Writing, Literature, and Language 
• Masters of Art in Creative Writing and English
• Ontario Graduate Certificate in Content Strategy
• Master of Fine Arts in Writing
• Postgraduate Certificate in Creative Writing 

Bachelor’s degree (3-4 years, full-time)

Students who have a passion for writing and wish to study in Canada, and learn more about the creative industry are highly recommended to pursue this course. This course introduces you to the world of writing that is different from technical writing. The curriculum puts special emphasis on the area of poetry, films, essays, fiction, novels, and other writing genres. The students learn the basic skills required for writing and learn to put their creative tools to use and have a successful career in the field.

Master’s degree (1-2 years, full-time)

Another popular creative writing course in Canada is Masters. A Master’s degree in creative writing is a type of post-graduate degree that students usually aim for after completing their undergraduate degree. This course allows you to delve deeper into the aspects of literature writing by incorporating all the aspects of writing, from grammar and vocabulary to major areas like literary analysis, plot development, etc. After completing this course, the students acquire a deeper insight into the creation of novels, poems, film writing, etc. It offers a wide range of specializations to choose from. These include playwriting, comedy writing, fiction and non-fiction, and many more!

The University of Calgary offers a creative writing certification program in online mode. This creative writing course in Canada is a 200-hour certificate course that allows you to hone your core skills in creative writing. It will provide you with knowledge about various aspects of writing that include editing, and proofreading and help you further in content development in various genres. You receive extensive training and professional mentorship throughout the program which prepares you for becoming a published writer. After the completion of the course, you receive a globally recognized certificate that revamps your resume and opens up more job prospects in the field of creative writing.

• Narrative Essay
• Creative nonfiction 
• Short Story
• Stage and Screenwriting 
• Popular Fiction 
• Poetry and Songwriting
• Fiction Writing

Eligibility criteria to get into creative writing courses in Canada varies depending on the course, university, level of degree, etc., but one of the most important prerequisites is your portfolio. To establish your reputation as a worthy writer, students are recommended to build a portfolio that includes samples of their best works.

Other than your portfolio, to be eligible for admission, you must possess the following:

• You would have to put together a strong portfolio of your works.
• Some colleges might demand a minimal mark of 75% or a B+.
• You must send a SOP or motivational letter outlining your interests and future goals in addition to your IELTS TRF, TOEFL, or Duolingo score (minimum score requirements are 6.5 to 7.5 on each test).
• Your resume or work CV must also be included in the application package.

Want to Score a Perfect 8 Band in IELTS? Take Leverage Live Class Demo & Get Started!

Cost of Studying Creative Writing Courses in Canada

When it comes to studying abroad, Canada is comparatively more affordable than other international destinations. Still, there are a lot of expenses that need to be kept in mind while you plan on studying creative writing courses in Canada. The budget should be planned in accordance with the pre-arrival cost and the cost of living after arriving. The following table gives a brief overview of the broad expenses covered through the entire process of applying to study creative writing in Canada.

Explore: Life in Canada for Indians

The career scope for creative writing courses in Canada is vast. Students with experience and determination can find a diverse range of job profiles in creative writing, marketing, publishing, entertainment, and freelancing. Here are some job profiles to explore after creative writing courses:

• Advertising copywriter
• Creative director
• Book Translator
• Magazine journalist
• Digital Copywriter
• Legacy Writer
• Content Developer
• Editorial Assistant
• Web content manager
• Newspaper journalist
• Lexicographer
• Journalist 
• Ghostwriter
• Scriptwriter

University of Windsor. Kwantlen Polytechnic University. Sheridan College. Douglas College. University of New Brunswick.

The colleges in Canada have emerged as one of the top options for pursuing an MFA in creative writing due to their diverse learning programs.

Creative Writing in UK. Creative Writing in USA. Creative Writing in Canada. Creative Writing in Ireland. Creative Writing in Australia.

If you are an individual looking to hone your writing skills and acquire the power to absorb the readers’ attention through your writing, pursuing creative writing courses in Canada is the best path for you! Know about the best-fit university and courses that you can pursue in Canada with the help of our AI Course Finder. Sign up for a free session with our counsellors at Leverage Edu today!

An ardent reader and writer, Gitali loves to create meaningful and well-researched content on studying abroad, scholarships and exploring student life hacks. When she is not busy working, you can find her doodling in the corner or discussing why Seinfeld is the greatest sitcom ever.

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Browse this list of Creative Writing courses. Review a program's web page to see its required courses.

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CREATIVE WRITING

Unlike any other creative writing program in Ontario, it enables students to hone their craft while exploring multiple art and design practices.

Collaborative by nature, our transdisciplinary and transcultural approach enriches imaginations, broadens perspectives and helps to develop each individual writer’s voice.

Our program includes the study of living literary culture and literary art practices and production, and emphasizes the practice, craft and production of spoken, written, visual and verbal texts as well as experimental language forms that exist both inside and outside established genres. We welcome ‘attitude’ translated on the page and off, through performance texts and other media.

This program combines written, performance and visual expression. You’ll participate in:

• An online and print journal
• Symposia, workshops
• Showcasing and public performances
• A book, zine and publications fair
• Field trips to local readings, conferences and festivals
• A digital and analog writing lab and access to sound studio
• A reading series featuring established, emerging and student writers
• Mentorships, as both mentees and later as mentors
• University slam team
• A nurturing and supportive emerging literary community
• Mentorship by faculty

This program is for both new and emerging writers. You’ll become part of a nurturing and supportive literary community. By the end of your degree, you’ll complete a body of work aimed at publication or exhibition to launch your career.

Program Highlights

Admissions requirements.

• For Ontario high school students, a minimum overall average of 70%
• Statement of Intent
• Official transcripts
• Portfolio requirements here
• see detailed academic requirements here

Internships & Experiential learning

OCAD U offers so much more than co-ops because creative careers take many forms. Our career services help you build a professional community, valuable experience and skills you need for a meaningful career. Get access to:

• Short experiential learning placements from among hundreds of organizations
• Creative in-class projects with real-world industry partners
• Exclusive summer internships
• Gallery exhibitions of your work
• Freelance creative opportunities
• Jobs after graduation

At the End of this Program...

At the end of this four-year program, you will earn a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree.

Jobs You Can Get

Graduates of this program can work in:

• Professional writing
• Artistic practice
• Performance art

What You'll Do in the Program

In first year, you will take art or design studio courses based on your interest as well as:

• Art history
• English class of your choice
• Introduction to History and Practice of Creative Writing
• Research, Reading and Editing for Creative Writers
• Writing in Community

In second year and third year, you will take art, design, social science and humanities courses based on your interest and:

• Creative Writing: Introduction to Four Genres
• Language and the Land
• Nano Publishing: Independent Publications
• Intro to Dub and Spoken Word

In third year you will have options to take classes in art and design that interest you but you’ll focus more on creative writing. Classes include:

• Poetry and Spoken Word
• Non-fiction
• Short Fiction
• Studies in Canadian Literature
• Indigenous Literature
• Publications: Editorial

In fourth year, all students will also have the opportunity to do an independent thesis project and showcase work at OCAD U’s  Graduate Exhibition , the biggest free art and design exhibition in Toronto with over 40,000 visitors.

In all undergraduate programs you can choose to take a minor alongside your major to explore and expand your practice. Minors give you the opportunity to pursue a focused secondary field of study in addition to or sometimes instead of taking electives in your program and can help you look better for employers or in grants or grad school applications.  You don’t need to choose a minor on your application – rather once you start at OCAD U, you’ll be able to choose from over 90 electives that can build towards one of our 25 focused minors.  Learn more about Minor Programs here .

Program Creative Writing Degree earned Bachelors of Fine Arts (Honours) (BFA) Faculty Faculty of Arts & Science Duration 4 years Portfolio required Yes More link View tuition fees and funding

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Students and faculty.

Follow the Creative Writing program on Instagram @ocaducreativewriters.

Meet Creative Writing student Chris Markland

Learn more about our OCAD U faculty

Creative Writing

Develop creative writing skills in multiple genres of interest including fiction, creative nonfiction, poetry, and more. This customizable program culminates in a capstone project in which students make significant progress on a polished collection of work. This certificate can be completed online or in the classroom.

This program is perfect for...

• Those new to writing who want to explore various genres while cultivating their skills
• Writers looking to hone their craft and develop a solid portfolio of work in a particular genre
• Writers considering graduate-level writing study, including those who wish to polish pieces for submission to MFA programs
• Individuals who want to become part of a vibrant and supportive community of artists who share their passion

What you can learn.

• Identify your creative writing goals and develop a plan to achieve them
• Deepen your practice within a chosen genre, or explore various forms of creative writing
• Discover techniques of powerful storytelling, craft compelling characters, and write memorable scenes and stories
• Receive guidance from successful writers and workshop in a group of supportive peers

Achieve results and reach your writing goals.

Whether you are new to writing, have a specific project you'd like to get off the ground, or are preparing to apply to an MFA program, the Certificate in Creative Writing is an immersive program for developing professional writing skills.

Our fully customizable certificate honors each individual student’s journey, allowing you to pursue the coursework that is most meaningful to your specific writing goals and level of expertise. 

The program offers the opportunity to specialize in genres like poetry, short stories, novel writing, essay writing, memoir writing, or to explore writing across genres, hybrid genres, and new forms without the limitation of a prescribed curriculum. 

The only required course, the Creative Writing Certificate Capstone , allows you to compile and further refine your writing from prior coursework into a final portfolio representing the finest examples of your craft. 

Taught by a prestigious roster of instructors who are published writers and active professionals, courses in this certificate program can be taken onsite, online, or a combination of both. 

Expect more from your education.

MFA, fiction writer, author of the story collection Once Removed (UGA Press) and winner of the Flannery O’Connor Award for Short Fiction. 

BUILD COMMUNITY

Writers' Program Network of Writers (WP NOW)

Stay immersed in the Writers' Program community. Our optional membership program offers exclusive access to a range of discounts and benefits, including members-only networking, professional development opportunities, and course discounts. 

L earn More

My UCLA Extension coursework, teachers, and colleagues have shaped my writing life, fueled the creation of my novel, and provided continual inspiration.

Certificate Curriculum

The Certificate in Creative Writing is fully customizable. You may follow a Writers’ Program sample curriculum plan based on specific writing goals, or design your own program of study.

Students must complete 21 total units comprised of the 3-unit Creative Writing Certificate Capstone course and 18 units of 400-level Creative Writing coursework.

Sample Program Tracks:

Novel I WRITING X 411.1

Novel II WRITING X 411.2

Novel III WRITING X 411.3

Novel IV WRITING X 411.4

Novel V WRITING X 411.5

Dialogue and Point of View WRITING X 462.1

Creative Writing Certificate Capstone WRITING X 460

Personal Essay I WRITING  X 422.1

Personal Essay II WRITING X 422.2

Personal Essay III WRITING X 422.3

Storytelling for Social Justice WRITING X 424.21E

Writing the Thinkpiece WRITING X 424.15E

The Art of Creative Research WRITING X 461.23

Poetry I WRITING X 431.1

Poetry II WRITING X 431.2

Poetry Toolbox WRITING X 432.10E

Prose Poetry WRITING X 432.11E

Reframing the Form WRITING X 432.7E

The "F" Word: Innovative Poetic Forms WRITING X 432.8E

Cuento Poems WRITING X 432.32E

Click below to view the required and elective courses, if applicable, for this program.

Students must complete 18 units of elective coursework. Select from courses numbered WRITING X 400-499 in the following areas:

Students may select courses in the following area with advisor approval:

Editing and Publishing

How to Get Started

Courses in this program are open enrollment, and each course is paid for individually.

Sequential courses should be taken in numerical order, starting from the lowest course number and progressing to higher numbers.

You may take Creative Writing courses without committing to the entire program.* However, by establishing candidacy in the program, you will receive  many benefits exclusive to our certificate students such as priority placement on waitlists and access to the UCLA Career Center's job board. Creative Writing Certificate students can also receive a customized curriculum tailored to your writing goals.

Need assistance? If you have any questions or need advice on course selection, feel free to reach out to us at [email protected] .

Benefits exclusive for Writers' Program certificate students:

• Advising : Receive a 30-minute, one-on-one goal-setting consultation with a Writers’ Program advisor. During this consultation, the advisor will customize a certificate program curriculum tailored to your experience, interests, and writing goals.
• Enrollment Advantages : Receive quarterly notice when Writers’ Program courses open for enrollment each quarter and receive preferential placement on wait lists.
• Manuscript Consultation : Within six months of completing certificate program coursework, receive 50% off a one-on-one manuscript consultation with a Writers' Program instructor. Learn more .

Advanced standing at Antioch University*

Students who complete the Certificate in Creative Writing can receive Advanced Standing in Antioch University Los Angeles’s MFA in Creative Writing .

Advanced Standing allows a student to enter the MFA program with the equivalent of one semester completed. In addition, you may be eligible for Antioch’s fellowships and scholarships.

Additional benefits exclusive to all UCLA Extension certificate students:

• Career Resources : Access UCLA Extension’s Career Resources including online career coaching, workshops, networking events, and other resources.  Learn More .
• Handshake Access : Explore thousands of job and internship postings through UCLA Career Center’s online job board. Learn More .
• UCLA Alumni Association Membership : Upon completing your certificate, join the nationwide Bruin family as a member of the UCLA Alumni Association. Learn More .
• Graduation Celebration : Attend the annual UCLA Extension Graduation Ceremony on campus to celebrate your achievements. Learn More .
• UCLA Recreation Facilities : Enjoy access to UCLA Recreation facilities as a student affiliate. Learn More .
• Bruin ID Card : Obtain an affiliate/Guest UCLA Bruin ID Card for additional student-related benefits. Learn More .

How to Apply - Establish Certificate Candidacy

• Click the Apply Now button below
• Login or create a new student account
• Once you are logged into the student portal, you can select “My Applications” from the left side menu at any time to return to your application. Click the yellow “Start” button to proceed.
• On the Certificate Application page, follow the instructions and click save. Then submit your application. 
• Proceed to checkout and pay the nonrefundable candidacy fee to finalize your application. 

Estimated Cost Breakdown

All courses in this program are paid for individually, unless otherwise noted. An application form is required to establish candidacy in this program. From the 'Apply Now' button, complete the online application and pay the application fee if applicable.

Application & Candidacy Fee

Estimated program tuition, estimated program textbook/materials.

*The Application & Candidacy Fee establishes your candidacy in the program for a period of time covering normal progress toward completion and may allow you to access a variety of program benefits.

Internships Available

Approved for International Visa

VA Benefit Eligible

Federal Financial Aid

The U.S. Department of Education requires colleges and universities to disclose certain information for any financial aid eligible program that, “prepares students for gainful employment in a recognized occupation”. This information includes program costs; occupations that the program prepares students to enter; occupational profiles; on time completion rate; and for the most recent award year: the number of students who have completed the program, the number of students who complete the program within the estimated duration, the job placement rate, and the median Title IV and private loan debt incurred by those who complete the program. For gainful employment information for this program, visit our  Financial Aid page.

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