Online Writing Schools and Colleges: How to Choose

A number of colleges and universities offer online and hybrid programs in the field of writing. Although the most common writing programs available online are master's degrees in creative writing, various institutions also offer technical writing certificate programs.

How to Select an Online Writing School

Degree Levels

When selecting an online program in writing, students should first choose the type of writing they want to specialize in. Most genres of writing, including fiction, nonfiction, poetry and screenwriting, will fall into the creative writing category. However, those interested in using their writing skills for a career in science or technology can earn a certificate in technical writing.

Program Type

Next, students should find out whether programs are fully online or hybrid. Hybrid, often called low-residency programs when referring to graduate programs, may require individuals to take specific courses--or a specific number of courses--on campus, as well as attend workshops and seminars in person. The majority of low-residency creative writing MFA programs include one to two summer residencies during each academic year that can last anywhere from a few days to two weeks.

List of Common Online Writing Programs

Online Certificate in Technical Communication

An online technical communications certificate program prepares writers that are interested in entering the field of telecommunications. Technical communicators are responsible for translating complex information into text that can be easily understood by everyday people. From finance to pharmaceuticals, technical writers can work on documents like statements, reports and instruction manuals. A background in journalism or visual arts can also be beneficial to those completing a technical communication certificate program. Courses can include technical writing, copyediting, foundations of graphics, critical thinking, information design and advanced technical communications.

Online Certificate in Technical Writing

Earning a certificate in technical writing trains writers for entry-level careers in the field of technology. Through this type of program, individuals will learn the different types of technical writing, how to write for specific audiences, the responsibilities of a technical writer and how to apply different research methods. Students might take courses like foundations of technical writing, software writing, researching, HTML basics and editing.

Masters of Fine Art in Creative Writing

The creative writing MFA program is designed to assist graduate students in fine tuning their writing skills, as well as provide instruction in different genres of writing. While curricula include courses in genres like fiction, creative non-fiction, poetry and screenwriting, the majority of creative writing MFA programs allow students to choose a concentration, therefore, students can tailor their courses to their specific interests.
Fully online creative writing MFA programs do exist; however most programs will require attending certain courses and workshops on campus - usually takes place during a 1- to 2-week residency each year - while completing thesis work and independent study online. Specific coursework in a creative writing MFA program can include classes like narration, metaphors, tone characterization, form and idea, translation and cinematic writing.