Introduction to short story writing: further practice

Key facts

  • Cost: £170
  • Credits: 10

Summary

“Short stories are tiny windows into other worlds” says writer Neil Gaiman. And it is true, in a relatively small number of words, entire lifetimes and worlds can be conjured up by a good short story. But they also take a lot of practise, redrafting and experimentation to learn how to write well – which makes them a great training ground for beginners or re-energising challenge for existing writers. So how do writers convey so much in such a short read exactly? What further tips and tricks can help create dynamic characters, vivid worlds and engaging stakes in just a few words? 

Join this playful and practical beginner’s course to further learn and apply the foundational skills involved in writing short stories with encouragement, support and guidance. Open to newcomers or those seeking further inspiration and practise. 

Over a series of welcoming talks, close-readings and approachable writing exercises, our expert tutor will explain: 

  • The key features of some further inspiring short stories  
  • how to further apply these ideas and techniques to your own writing 
  • how to continue to share what you’ve written with others and improve with feedback  

You will also have the chance to discuss and reflect on what you learn with other students and the tutor in seminars. 

Choose this course if you want to learn: 

  • the basics of what makes short stories work 
  • Further key techniques to help you write short stories 
  • More chances to share your work and improve with mutual feedback 
  • (for those who submit for assessment) how to improve with written feedback, how to reflect on your writing process 

Who is this course for?

Anyone already developing as a writer and interested in: 

  • writing imaginatively and improving their short story writing skills 
  • Developing further creative writing skills and refreshing their practise 
  • finding a supportive writing community to share work and gain feedback  
  • the short story as a literary form 

Qualifications/credits

(optional) 10 credits at SCQF 7 / Level 1 

Can contribute towards the attainment of Certificate or Diploma in Higher Education (Creative Writing) 

Assessment

If you opt to take the course for credit the assessments are: 

  • One 1,500-word creative portfolio (75% of final grade) 
  • One 500 word self-reflective essay (25% of final grade) 

Mode of study

This 10-week course will be delivered via 2-hour seminars led by a tutor.

Course materials will be provided via our online learning platform Moodle 

Prospects

  • Can begin your journey as a writer and help you find a supportive community 
  • Can reenergise and refresh your existing writing practice  
  • Can begin your study of creative writing at university level  
  • contribute towards a Certificate or Diploma in Higher Education 
  • can inform your personal reading list and introduce you to some inspiring writing 

Find out more

The University holds open days throughout the year where you can meet with staff to discuss our short course provision. Find out more about University of Glasgow open days

Available sessions

  • Date: 09/04/2025 - 11/06/2025
    Day: Wednesday
    Time: 19:00 - 21:00
  • Tutor: To be confirmed

    • Reference: Introduction to short story writing: further practice(8042)- Online live book now