Whether you’re an aspiring author, journalist, blogger, or content creator, this course will help you build a professional non-fiction writing career.
Certificate of Non-Fiction Writing is a professional development course that will provide the skills and knowledge necessary to create a range of non-fiction genres, from memoir and biography to travel, food, news and digital writing.
In this online non-fiction writing course, learn about author platforms, narrative techniques, story arcs, imagery, and build immersive scenes that connect with readers. You’ll also develop skills in research, interviewing, news and feature writing, memoir, and travel and food writing.
You’ll learn to write SEO‑optimised content for digital platforms, how to engage with your audience and build a compelling portfolio. You’ll also explore legal and rights considerations, marketing and launch strategies to promote your work through media, events, and online channels.
On completion of this course, you will feel confident to take a non-fiction project from concept to publication.
Course Structure
Certificate of Non-Fiction Writing
Unit 1: Introduction to Non-Fiction Writing
- Introduction to non-fiction writing
- Non-fiction genres
- Fact vs fiction
- Understanding audience and platform
Unit 2: Storytelling for Non-Fiction
- Storytelling for non-fiction
- Narrative arc
- Techniques for building a strong arc
- Using imagery
- Using specific, relevant details
- Scene-building in non-fiction
- Engaging readers with real events
Unit 3: Research and Interviewing
- Research and interviewing
- Research methods
- Fact checking
- Source validation
- Structuring and conducting interviews
Unit 4: Travel and Food Writing
- Travel and food writing
- Crafting place and atmosphere
- Structuring for flow
- Evoking the senses: Food writing
- Ethical considerations
Unit 5: News and Feature Writing
- News and feature writing
- News articles
- News article structure
- News writing style
- Writing leads
- Nut grafs
- Writing conclusions
- Writing features
Unit 6: Memoir, Biography, and Personal Essay
- Memoir, Biography, and Personal Essay
- Personal voice
- Memory versus record
- Subjectivity: owning perspective
- Honesty and ethics
- Biography: Balancing facts and narrative
- Structuring personal essays
Unit 7: Blog and Digital Writing
- Blog and digital writing
- Developing and using voice
- Understanding audience and purpose
- Headlines: Capturing attention
- Multimedia: Enhancing engagement
- SEO basics
- Building a digital portfolio
- Establishing an online presence
Unit 8: Editing, Revising, and Publishing
- Editing, revising, and publishing
- Clarity, impact, and accuracy
- Working with editorial and peer feedback
- Preparing for publication
- Traditional publishing
- Self-publishing
- Hybrid publishing
- Vanity publishing
- Marketing and launch strategy
- Build and leverage author platform
- Launch events and advanced buzz
- Advanced reviews and engagement
- Broaden your media exposure
- Ongoing engagement and analytics
- Legal and rights considerations
Study Hours
Estimated duration 40 hours
Course Delivery and Start
Start anytime, self-paced and 100% online
Assessment
Assessment will be comprised of written exercises, including short-answer questions, reflective tasks, short reports and/or projects. There are no examinations or due dates for assessment. As a result, you can complete training in your own time and at your own pace with the assistance of unlimited tutor support.
Approval and Recognition
Australian Online Courses Pty Ltd is an approved and recognised member of IARC. The IARC is an International association that recognises quality and excellence in tertiary education providers.
Testimonials
Great course to further my skills in non-fiction writing.
J. Widdowson-Staples, Punchbowl, TAS | Certificate of Non-Fiction Writing
About Us
Graduation
A Certificate of Attainment and Statement of Results will be issued upon successful completion of this course.
How to Enrol
Enrolment Form – Employment Services and Rehabilitation Providers
Enrol via Live Chat (Business Hours)
Enrol via Telephone 1300 76 2221 (Business Hours)
Payment Options
Visa, Mastercard, BPAY and EFT/Direct Deposit. Please allow 1-2 Business days for processing for EFT and BPAY.
Course FAQs
Why Choose Australian Online Courses?
- Professional development that is widely recognised and respected;
- Improve your employment opportunities;
- Study online, anywhere via our elearning system;
- High-quality professional development programs written by industry experts;
- All course materials provided online – no textbooks to buy;
- Unlimited tutor support via email;
- We offer twelve (12) months’ access, with extensions available upon application (fees apply);
- Course may be tax deductible; see your tax advisor.
Are there any entry requirements or pre-requisites?
There are no course or subject pre-requisites for entry into our programs. However, our professional development programs are generally intended for people over the age of 18. In some circumstances, enrolments from younger people may be considered. Please complete the AOC Parent Guardian Consent Form prior to enrolling and submit here.
Are there any computer requirements?
To study online with Australian Online Courses you will need a computer (desktop PC/laptop) running a current/updated operating system with reliable high-speed internet access. You will need to use the Google Chrome browser to access your course.
When can I start this course?
You can start within 60 minutes during business hours when you enrol and pay in full with a credit card!
Credit card: Within 60 mins during business hours.
BPAY: Within 1-2 working days.
Internet Banking: Within 1-2 working days.
Cheque/Money Order: Upon receipt of mailed cheque.
How is this course delivered?
This course is delivered online via our easy-to-navigate Learning Management System (LMS), where you will discover interactive online learning/written content, resources and assessment.
Do I need to attend classes or undertake any work placements?
No. All courses are delivered online via our LMS and there are no work placement requirements in this course.
What support can I expect from Australian Online Courses?
Unlimited tutor support is available throughout your studies via email only during business hours Monday to Friday. Our Administrative team are available Monday to Friday via email, live chat and telephone.
I am an international student. Can I enrol into this course?
Yes! We accept enrolments from individuals both within Australia and internationally; location is no barrier to entry into our programs.
Career Pathways
Future growth
Strong
Unemployment
Low
Professional Development for:
- Writer
- Biographer
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