A creative writing distance learning class can help a writer develop his or her style, improve writing skills, and benefit from the experienced of a seasoned writer. Choosing the best creative writing distance learning program involves researching which programs that fit your budget and which programs that are taught by experienced writers who will be available to communicate with you regularly about your writing. Choose a creative writing distance learning program from an accredited institution to ensure that your money and time are wisely invested, and the education you receive is of the highest standard.
Any institution that offers a creative writing distance learning class should be accredited. This means an accrediting agency has verified that the institution is offering high quality education, and that the institution is granting legitimate certificates and degrees honored by loan servicing agencies as well as employers. A non-accredited institution will cost you about the same amount of money, but the payoff will be much lower; the certificate or credits you earn may not transfer to other institutions, and you may not be able to secure loans to pay for your education. Employers may also be less likely to consider you for a job if your education was not undertaken at an accredited institution.
Research the best programs for creative writing distance learning, as well as the programs you can afford. Apply to those programs and choose the one that fits your needs and your budget the best. Remember that just because you apply to a creative writing distance learning program does not mean you will be accepted; most institutions have specific requirements that students must meet before being accepted, so research the requirements and make sure you can fulfill them. This may mean taking other courses to prepare for the creative writing distance learning course.
The best writing classes will be taught by experienced and published writers who can lend their expertise and talents to your writing. Research the instructor and ensure that he or she has the experience you are looking for. Research further to find out if the instructor's writing and experience mesh with your goals and writing style; the best instruction will come from an instructor who can clearly understand your writing goals and help you achieve them.
Try to find out what the structure of the class will be before enrolling. Creative writing classes are often workshop classes, meaning your work will be read by other students as well as the professor. Therefore, it is important to make sure you are comfortable with that format. Distance learning classes via the web are often conducted on private message boards, so be sure you are familiar with this set-up and comfortable with the way the class will be conducted.
