Short Story Writing

Who is the course for?

The course is aimed at anyone with an interest in writing, particularly the short story form. It may be that you have never studied short stories before, or that you may have a basic appreciation of narrative and story-telling techniques. You may also wish to write a story to record or comment on a specific event or to celebrate a personal experience – if this is the case then this course is for you.

Many writers and novelists begin their career writing short stories and mastering the form could lead to further extended writing projects or be the beginning of a longer piece of work.

What will I study?

The course will begin by introducing students to the development of the short story through the close reading of a variety of texts of different types (genres). This will familiarise those new to the genre with the traditions and techniques that underpin the course. The course will cover the following:

1. Introduction to the genre – the best short stories and their writers
2. History of the genre, from Poe to present
3. Developing character
4. Structuring a narrative: – what goes where?
5. A Sense of Time & Place
6. Point of View: – who tells the story?
7. Genre & Style
8. A Twist in the Tale? How to end your story

Course Objectives

• To identify ideas for a short story
• To understand a series of fictional techniques
• To apply imaginative and critical faculties to your own and others’ writing.

Students who enrol on this course may be interested in the Life-Writing and Poetry Writing courses. They may also wish to progress to the Access to HE Level 3 English Language and Literature course, and eventually the BA in English Language and Literary Studies.

How will the course be delivered?

Through classroom based activities, alongside a tutor and other delegates at a similar level. The course will also include interactive forums and tutorials via our Moodle virtual learning environment (i.e. online).

Course Entry Criteria

Although no prior experience is needed for the course, attendees should have an interest in the subject.

The college operates a no refunds policy as detailed below. Cancellations and transfer requests are subject to the following conditions:

• More than 4 weeks notice – no charge
• 4 weeks notice – 30% of the cost
• 2-3 weeks notice – 50% of the cost
• 1-2 weeks notice – 75% of the cost
• Less than 1 weeks notice – 100% of the cost

All cancellations must be made in writing and are subject to a £10 administration charge. The full fee’s policy is available on request.

What will I get at the end of the course?

You will receive a Blackburn College Certificate of attendance upon successful completion of the training.

What can I do next?

See our other creative courses here

How much does it cost?

The course fee is only £149.00 per person including all tuition/workshops/critique and a Blackburn College Certificate of Attendance. (prices are subject to change)