Fiction Writer Course

Fiction writing is both an art and a professional skill set—and many writers stall not from lack of imagination, but from lacking a repeatable craft process, a revision system, and a clear pathway to professional submission and monetization. This fiction writing course addresses those gaps by teaching you the core mechanics that make stories work (structure, character, POV, scene craft, and voice) while also integrating modern, AI-enhanced workflows to support ideation and revision responsibly—without replacing the author's voice.

In this creative writing course, you will move through a 12-module progression that builds craft mastery first, then professionalizes through systematic revision and the business of writing (industry formatting, query letters/synopses, and targeting publishers/agents). This online writing course culminates in a portfolio-based final project—a polished, publication-ready short story or novel excerpt (3,000–5,000 words)—supported by peer feedback, instructor guidance, and professional presentation expectations so you can confidently revise, submit, and pursue paid writing opportunities.

What you will learn

• Develop mastery across core fiction craft elements: character, plot/structure, POV, setting, dialogue, pacing, voice, and theme
• Apply a systematic drafting and revision process to transform rough drafts into polished, professional-quality prose
• Build a consistent writing voice and style that supports your storytelling goals and genre expectations
• Learn professional publishing readiness: manuscript formatting, query letters/synopses, and how to target publishers and agents
• Use AI-enhanced tools responsibly to support ideation, outlining, and revision while maintaining original voice and integrity

How you will benefit

• Write stories that work—with stronger character arcs, cleaner structure, better pacing, and more engaging scenes (aka fewer "chapter 3 slump" casualties)
• Finish with a portfolio-ready piece (short story or novel excerpt) suitable for submission, pitching, or showcasing to writing clients
• Save time and frustration by following a repeatable revision system—so you're not endlessly "fixing vibes," you're improving craft
• Gain practical business literacy for writers: formatting, querying, and smart targeting—key steps toward professional publication and paid opportunities
• Build confidence and momentum through weekly exercises, quizzes, and peer feedback—because readers are the ultimate reality check

1. Introduction to Fiction Writing
   1. Types and forms of fiction
   2. Finding inspiration and ideas
   3. The importance of craft
2. Character Development
   1. Creating dimensional characters
   2. Character desires and motivations
   3. Character profiles and arcs
3. Plot and Structure
   1. Story structure basics
   2. Shaping beginning, middle, and end
   3. Outlining techniques
4. Point of View
   1. Types of POV
   2. Choosing the right perspective
   3. Maintaining consistent POV
5. Description and Setting
   1. Using sensory details
   2. Creating vivid settings
   3. Integrating description with POV
6. Dialogue
   1. Crafting realistic conversations
   2. Dialogue tags and formatting
   3. Using dialogue to reveal character
7. Pacing and Tension
   1. Controlling story rhythm
   2. Building and releasing tension
   3. Flashbacks and time manipulation
8. Voice and Style
   1. Developing a unique voice
   2. Understanding style elements
   3. Experimenting with different styles
9. Theme and Subtext
   1. Identifying themes in fiction
   2. Weaving themes into your story
   3. Creating meaningful subtext
10. Revision Techniques
    1. Self-editing strategies
    2. Receiving and incorporating feedback
    3. Multiple drafts and polishing
11. The Business of Writing
    1. Manuscript formatting
    2. Query letters and synopses
    3. Targeting publishers and agents

Requirements:

Hardware Requirements:

• This course can be taken on either a PC, Mac, or Chromebook.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 10 or later.
• Mac: macOS 12 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
• Any word processing application (not included in enrollment).
• Microsoft Word Online
• Adobe Acrobat Reader .
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.

Prerequisites:

No prior experience required. Basic computer literacy, basic business communication, and comfort using email + web-based tools.

Brian Hassett

Brian Hassett is a PhD-trained English literature scholar and veteran professor with three decades of experience teaching students how stories work—from structure and theme to voice, style, and the art of revision. His approach brings academic rigor to practical writing: close reading, clear craft principles, and feedback that helps writers level up without losing their unique voice. In the Fiction Writer program, he helps learners turn instinct into technique and drafts into publishable work.

Siobhan Ordorica

Siobhan Ordorica is a fiction writer, mentor, and editor who helps writers craft stories that move readers and sustain creative momentum. With extensive experience editing fiction and guiding writers through revision, she brings a practical, encouraging approach to developing character, voice, and scene-level storytelling. In the Fiction Writer program, she supports learners in turning ideas into finished work—building confidence, craft, and a consistent writing process.

How much do authors make?

According to Indeed.com, authors in the U.S. earn $72,378 per year on average.

Does this course prepare you for a certification?

No.

How long does it take to complete this course?

After you register, you will receive 6 months to complete the course. The time allotted for completion has been calculated based on the number of course hours.

When can I start this course?

This course is open enrollment, so you can register and start the course whenever you are ready. Access to your course can take 24-48 business hours.

What if I don't have enough time to complete the course within the time frame provided?

The time allotted for course completion has been calculated based on the number of course hours. However, if you are unable to complete the course, contact the student advising team to see what options you may have available to work out a suitable completion date. Please note that an extension fee may be charged.

What kind of support will I receive?

Our courses are designed to accommodate various learning preferences. Depending on the course structure, you may get different forms of support. Self-paced courses are designed to be user-friendly and independent, minimizing the need for external support. In courses with instructors, our direct platform support feature includes opportunities for questions, discussions, and remediation, with email and phone support available for select courses. Our student advising team is available to guide you on program requirements and administrative requests, but they do not provide assistance with course content. Our goal is to provide you with the necessary support for success, whether it's through self-paced exploration, direct communication, or guidance from our advising team.

What happens when I complete the course?

Upon successfully passing the final exam, you will be awarded a certificate of completion from the school or organization that you registered through.

Am I guaranteed a job?

Hope Training Academy courses will help you gain the skills you need to obtain an entry-level position in most cases. However, you should always research the job market in your area before enrolling.

Can I get financial assistance?

Hope Training Academy courses are non-credit, so they do not qualify for federal aid, FAFSA, and Pell Grant. In some states, vocational rehab or workforce development boards may provide funding to take our courses. Additionally, you may qualify for financial assistance if you meet certain requirements. Learn more about financial assistance.

How can I get more information about this course?

If you have questions that are not answered on our website, representatives are available by phone. You can also call us at 1-855-532-7642 during regular business hours to have your questions promptly answered. If you are visiting us during non-business hours, please send us a question using the "Contact Us."