Online Class: Writing Women's Fiction

In this course, we're going to show you how to write creative women's fiction. We're going to review what is how and how to create a compelling story step-by-step.
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  • 16
    Lessons
  • 39
    Exams &
    Assignments
  • 721
    Students
    have taken this course
  • 7
    Hours
    average time
  • 0.7
    CEUs
 
 
 

Course Description

"Empowerment Through the Pen: A Comprehensive Guide to Crafting Women's Fiction"

According to recent data from the American Bookseller Association and the Book Industry Study Group, the pull of women's fiction on the literary landscape is undeniable. Accounting for a staggering 40% of adult popular fiction sold in the United States and 60% of its paperback sales, this genre has carved an impressive niche for itself. Furthermore, a recent analysis has revealed that women's fiction is a flourishing $24 billion industry. A sheer testament to its magnetic allure!

But what truly constitutes women's fiction? The narrative thrives on the protagonist's resilience, where she doesn't seek salvation from external forces but emerges as her own savior. The Romance Writers of America further defines it as the depiction of women on the cusp of life-altering moments and transformations. Their journeys, imbued with emotional profundity, influence their relationships and culminate in uplifting endings, especially concerning romantic pursuits.

Women's fiction transcends mere 'chick lit' or romance. It marries literary artistry with universal appeal, often portraying strong female characters grappling with both personal and societal challenges.

In our course, "Empowerment Through the Pen", we invite you on a journey of mastering the craft of women's fiction. Whether you're an absolute beginner or a seasoned writer seeking refinement, our modules are tailored to guide you from foundational concepts to intricate storytelling techniques. You'll learn:

  1. The Essence of Women's Fiction: Understand its core elements and how it distinguishes itself from related genres.
  2. Crafting Relatable Protagonists: Techniques to mold powerful female characters that resonate with readers.
  3. Plot Development: Weave story arcs that encapsulate the challenges, triumphs, and growth of your characters.
  4. Engaging Dialogues and Narratives: Crafting conversations and narratives that captivate.
  5. Industry Insights: Understand market trends, reader preferences, and how to make your manuscript stand out.

Dive into the rich tapestry of women's experiences, emotions, and stories waiting to be told. Join us and master the art and heart of women's fiction. Embark on a literary journey that not only empowers your characters but also empowers you as a storyteller!

Courses Frequently Bought Together:
  • Completely Online
  • Self-Paced
  • Printable Lessons
  • Full HD Video  
  • 6 Months to Complete
  • 24/7 Availability
  • Start Anytime
  • PC & Mac Compatible
  • Android & iOS Friendly
  • Accredited CEUs
Universal Class is an IACET Accredited Provider
 
 

Course Lessons

Average Lesson Rating:
4.71 / 5 Stars (Average Rating)
"Extraordinarily Helpful"
(928 votes)

Lesson One: What, Exactly, Is Women's Fiction?

106 Points
In this lesson, you will learn just exactly what women's fiction is. Additional lesson topics: Best Women's Fiction Novels
  • Lesson 1 Video
  • Lesson discussions: Reasons for Taking this Course
  • Complete: Assignment 1A
  • Complete: Assignment 1B
  • Assessment: Lesson 1 Quiz

Lesson Two: Setting Your Work Schedule and Dumping Writer's Block

205 Points
In this lesson we will talk about your writing schedule and how to avoid, or conquer, writer's block.
  • Lesson 2 Video
  • Complete: Assignment 2A
  • Complete: Assignment 2B
  • Assessment: Lesson 2 Quiz

Lesson Three: Subgenres of Women's Fiction: It's Not Chick Lit!

204 Points
This lesson will explain what a subgenre is, and you will also learn the difference between romance and women's fiction. Additional lesson topics: Women's Fiction vs. Romance: A Tale of Two Genres
  • Lesson 3 Video
  • Complete: Assignment 3A
  • Complete: Assignment 3B
  • Assessment: Lesson 3 Quiz

Lesson Four: The Rules of Women's Fiction

203 Points
This lesson will explain the "rules" of women's fiction. You will learn what you need to include to write in this genre. Additional lesson topics: Helpful writing dialogue tips; Jaclyn Dolamore's blogspot article
  • Lesson 4 Video
  • Complete: Assignment 4A
  • Complete: Assignment 4B
  • Assessment: Lesson 4 Quiz

Lesson Five: Themes of Women's Fiction

103 Points
In this lesson you will learn the common themes of women's fiction. Additional lesson topics: Interview of Writing Process with author Jane Green
  • Lesson 5 Video
  • Complete: Assignment 5
  • Assessment: Lesson 5 Quiz

Lesson Six: Writing Your Central Character

210 Points
This lesson will help you define your main character. You will learn how to build her and give her a backstory. Additional lesson topics: How to Write a Character Analysis; What Makes a Good Story?
  • Lesson 6 Video
  • Complete: Assignment 6A
  • Complete: Assignment 6B
  • Complete Assignment: Character Building Worksheet
  • Assessment: Lesson 6 Quiz

Lesson Seven: Positive Aspects of Women's Fiction

104 Points
In this lesson we will cover the ways positive ideas and themes of women's fiction. It is not all heartbreak and pain! Additional lesson topics: Speech given by Jojo Moyes
  • Lesson 7 Video
  • Complete: Assignment 7
  • Assessment: Lesson 7 Quiz

Lesson Eight: Common Threads and Big Picture Thinking

203 Points
This lesson will explore the common threads of a women's fiction novel. It will also explain what those common threads are. Additionally, we will talk about "the big picture" -- where you hope to go from here. Additional lesson topics: The Story Goal: Your Key to Creating A Solid Plot Structure; Writing a Book and 8211; The Several Step Method
  • Lesson 8 Video
  • Complete: Assignment 8A
  • Complete: Assignment 8B
  • Assessment: Lesson 8 Exam

Lesson Nine: Setting the Scene

103 Points
In this lesson, we will explore the typical settings for women's fiction. Additional lesson topics: How to Write a Setting for a Book
  • Lesson 9 Video
  • Complete: Assignment 9
  • Assessment: Lesson 9 Quiz

Lesson Ten: Plotting Your Course

104 Points
This lesson will discuss plotting, and explain how to use outlines, plot maps, and charts. Additional lesson topics: Glen Strathy's tips How to Create A Plot Outline In Several Easy Steps
  • Lesson 10 Video
  • Complete: Assignment 10
  • Assessment: Lesson 10 Quiz

Lesson Eleven: How to Use Subplots in Your Writing

204 Points
In this lesson, you will learn what a subplot is, and how subplots can help to make your work stronger. Additional lesson topics: 7 Ways to Add Great Subplots to Your Novel
  • Lesson 11 Video
  • Complete: Assignment 11A
  • Complete: Assignment 11B
  • Assessment: Lesson 11 Quiz

Lesson Twelve: A Growing Market

104 Points
This lesson will describe the growing market for women's fiction, and we will discuss agents and publishers. Additional lesson topics: How to Find a Literary Agent; Tips on Finding a Literary Agent
  • Lesson 12 Video
  • Complete: Assignment 12
  • Assessment: Lesson 12 Quiz

Lesson Thirteen: Publishing Guidelines for Women's Fiction

104 Points
In this lesson, we will discuss publishing guidelines and research -- what publishers are looking for when it comes to women's fiction. Additional lesson topics: How to improve your writing skills; Improving your writing
  • Lesson 13 Video
  • Complete: Assignment 13
  • Assessment: Lesson 13 Quiz

Lesson Fourteen: Agents: What They Do and How to Find One

105 Points
This lesson will emphasize the importance of finding an agent, rather than blindly sending queries to publishing companies.
  • Lesson 14 Video
  • Complete: Assignment 14
  • Assessment: Lesson 14 Exam

Lesson Fifteen: Query Letters

104 Points
In this lesson, we will talk about what a hook is --how to write one and why you need one; and you'll also learn what goes into a query letter. Additional lesson topics: How to Write a Query Letter
  • Lesson 15 Video
  • Complete: Assignment 15
  • Assessment: Lesson 15 Exam

Lesson Sixteen: Wrapping it All Up

100 Points
In this final segment, we will recap the previous lessons and talk about what to do now. Additional lesson topics: CreateSpace
  • Lesson 16 Video
  • Lesson discussions: What is your opinion of this course?; Program Evaluation Follow-up Survey (End of Course); Course Comments
  • Complete: Assignment 16
2266
Total Course Points
 

Learning Outcomes

By successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
  • Describe what, exactly, is women's fiction.
  • Demonstrate setting your work schedule and dumping writer's block.
  • Describe subgenres of women's fiction.
  • Describe the rules of women's fiction.
  • Summarize common themes of women's fiction.
  • Demonstrate choosing and writing your central character.
  • Describe positive aspects of women's fiction.
  • Identify common threads and big picture thinking.
  • Demonstrate setting the scene, plotting your course, and using subplots.
  • Summarize publishing guidelines for women's fiction and dealing with agents.
  • Demonstrate writing query letters for your work.
  • Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.
 

Additional Course Information

Online CEU Certificate
  • Document Your Lifelong Learning Achievements
  • Earn an Official Certificate Documenting Course Hours and CEUs
  • Verify Your Certificate with a Unique Serial Number Online
  • View and Share Your Certificate Online or Download/Print as PDF
  • Display Your Certificate on Your Resume and Promote Your Achievements Using Social Media
Document Your CEUs on Your Resume
 
Course Title: Writing Women's Fiction
Course Number: 9770562
Lessons Rating: 4.71 / 5 Stars (928 votes)
Languages: English - United States, Canada and other English speaking countries
Availability: You can take this course online in every U.S. state including California, Texas, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Ohio, and Georgia. International availability includes English-speaking countries like Canada, Australia, the UK, and South Africa.
Last Updated: March 2024
Course Type: Self-Paced, Online Class
CEU Value: 0.7 IACET CEUs (Continuing Education Units)
CE Accreditation: Universal Class, Inc. has been accredited as an Authorized Provider by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET).
Grading Policy: Earn a final grade of 70% or higher to receive an online/downloadable CEU Certification documenting CEUs earned.
Assessment Method: Lesson assignments and review exams
Instructor: Dana Kristan
Syllabus: View Syllabus
Course Fee: $120.00 U.S. dollars

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Student Testimonials

  • "I have enjoyed doing two courses, and now I have signed up for the third one. It is obvious that I like Universal Class. Keep up the good work!" -- Jaya S.
  • "Overall, the course was really enjoyable and excellent value. I will be doing more creative writing courses with UniversalClass." -- Lorraine C.
  • "I had been struggling to get my head around story structure and plotting, and this course helped with that. Also, understanding the women's fiction genre helped me decide where I wanted to focus my writing endeavors; helped me correctly classify the genre of a novel I was working on; and helped me identify what was right and what was wrong in my first draft and what was essential to fix the problems." -- Lorraine C.
  • "I enjoyed the course. It helped me with my manuscript." -- Patsy W.
  • "This is a fabulous instructor who helped me become a better writer. Thank you!" -- Anita B.
  • "Instructor very encouraging and knowledgeable about lessons taught. Prompt to respond to questions." -- Denise H.
  • "I enjoyed all of it." -- Denise H.

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