How to Choose an Online Writing Class

Do some research before choosing an online writing class.

Online writing classes are great for improving your writing skills. You can find a class to improve your current skills, or you can find a class to teach you an entirely new field of writing. You can work on your class when it is convenient for you, and you can work on your class from the comfort of your home. Online writing classes can vary widely in price, from $40 up to $600 per class. If you are prepared to spend $600 on an online writing class, it's important that you know what you are looking for. Below is a list of things to look for and tips for choosing an online writing class.

Instructions

1. Make sure that the course topic meets your needs. Carefully read the course description for several classes on the topic that you are interested in. Also look over the course syllabus to determine if the class is something that you are interested in.

2. Find out what you can about the instructor. What are the teacher's credentials? Discover how much experience this person has. Does she have experience in the specific field that the course covers?

3. Find out what the requirements of the class are. What texts will you have to purchase? How much reading will you have to do? How much will you be expected to write? If you want a class that provides feedback for your writing, it would be pointless to take a class that doesn't require you to turn in writing assignments. You can usually find out what assignments you will need to complete by reviewing the course syllabus.

4. Ask if you can get your money back, if you need to. Find out if you are able to get a refund on your tuition if you discover that the class is not what you expected. Some online courses have a drop option that will allow you to get a portion of your tuition back if you are not satisfied with the course or if you are unable to participate.

5. Find out if you can get credit toward a degree by taking the class. Many colleges and universities offer online writing classes that actually provide you with credit toward a degree program. These courses are usually more expensive than non-credit courses.

6. Ask how advanced the course is. Be sure that the level of the class matches the level of your writing skill. Find out if the course is beginning, intermediate or advanced and determine how these terms are defined. Are there any prerequisites for the course?

Tips & Warnings

• Online writing class are convenient because you do not have to travel to take the course.

• Many writing courses give you the opportunity to receive feedback from the instructor.

• Good writing courses will expect you to write and to turn in writing assignments on a regular basis.

• Online courses vary widely in price and quality.

• Do not take an online course that does not match your skill level. As a novice writer, you will be quickly overwhelmed by an advanced course. As a successful, published author, you will gain little benefit from a beginning writing course.

Resources

• Writers' Village University
• Free Online Writing Classes