The ideal course for those looking to learn the fundamentals of writing their first work of crime fiction.
1 starting date
Testimonials
Course overview
This ten-week Crime Writing course will include an in-depth look at what makes a crime novel and how to make your own writing strong, compelling and ready to submit.
Areas covered will include plotting, characterisation and analysis of all the elements that give a book that page-turning quality. It is suitable for both beginners and also those who have already started writing but need some direction.
After this course, students might also be interested in Short Story Writing, Novel Writing and Longer Works, and Writers' Workshop.
Who is it for?
For new and more experienced writers who want to learn the fundamentals of writing crime fiction.
Find out more about our Creative writing and publishing at City, University of London courses
Timetable
Teaching takes place once a week for ten weeks, from 6.30-8.30pm.
Benefits
This is a unique opportunity to learn craft of crime fiction from a best-selling thriller writer.
What will I learn?
You will learn a variety of techniques from creating characters that live off the page, to how to build a plot and how to use effective description. Other topics include building tension and pace into your writing; creating crime scene settings; and how to use research to bring veracity to your stories.
By the end of this course, you will be able to:
- Define what makes a crime story work
- Create believable characters that will live off the page
- Understand plot twists and how to use them to the best effect
- Use effective description in your writing
- Build tension and pace into your writing
- Create settings that evoke a strong sense of place.
Assessment and certificates
There is no formal assessment for the course but students are expected to contribute to class discussions, complete any homework assignments and be open to giving and receiving feedback on their work in progress.
Students who attend 70 per cent of the classes will receive a certificate of completion at the end of the course.
Eligibility
No prior knowledge of crime fiction required as course is suitable for beginners or those who would like more direction.
English requirements
You will need a good level of spoken and written English to enrol on this course.
Recommended reading
- Gone Girl, Gillian Flynn, Weidenfeld & Nicholson, 2013
- Someone Else’s Skin, Sarah Hilary, Headline, 2016
- And Then There Were None, Agatha Christie, Harper Collins, 2007
- Slow Horses, Mick Herron, John Murray, 2017.