Learn the craft of writing gripping horror stories for books, film and television in this immersive online course. Discover powerful techniques to create atmosphere, build psychological tension and manipulate audience expectations. Move beyond jump scares and shock value to explore how fear works on emotional and intellectual levels.
Through guided exercises, script readings and practical workshopping, you will develop compelling characters, unsettling scenarios and original story concepts. Explore subgenres including psychological horror, supernatural horror, body horror and suspense-driven thrillers. Experiment with structure, pacing and revelation to craft stories that disturb, intrigue and captivate modern audiences.
Learning Outcomes
- Apply proven techniques to write compelling and original horror stories.
- Build suspense, tension and fear through structure, pacing and language.
- Use character archetypes and genre conventions in fresh, innovative ways.
Course Content
- Analysis of horror scripts, excerpts and video examples.
- Techniques for writing horror across books, film and television.
- Workshopping and feedback to refine your ideas and style.
Schedule & Pricing
- 2 sessions (6:00pm–8:00pm) delivered online via Zoom.
- Course fee: $199.
Details
You will learn
- Techniques for building suspense and psychological tension
- How to craft original horror stories for page and screen
- Applying genre archetypes in innovative ways
You will get
- Expert guidance and structured writing exercises
- Practical horror-writing handbook materials
- Supportive workshop feedback online
Appropriate for
Creative writers, authors and screenwriters aged 18+
Preparation
What to bring
- Notebook and pen or laptop
- Your story ideas or drafts
- Stable internet connection
What to wear
Your Teacher
Sydney Community College
Sydney Community College is a registered charity with a voluntary Board of Directors.
The College has a mission to offer innovative continuing adult education and training programmes that support individual efforts and facilitate sustainable social change.
We do this by:
- Providing quality continuing adult education opportunities for people to build practical and theoretical skills and develop knowledge;
- Leveraging from and developing community capacity and inclusivity;
- Developing innovative affordable and accessible skills training programmes;
- Partnering with like organisations to deliver learning opportunities for disadvantaged individuals and communities;
- Partnering with all levels of government to deliver education policy objectives.
Cancellations & Refunds
If the organiser cancels the class:
You are entitled to a full refund.
If you can't attend the class:
You’re welcome to send someone in your place.
OR
- A refund can be requested 10 days before class starts. An admin fee of AU$45.00 applies.
Terms & Conditions
At Sydney Community College, we know that plans can change unexpectedly. Whether it’s a shift in your schedule, a family emergency, or just a change of heart, we want to support you in the fairest way possible.
At the same time, we’re a not-for-profit organisation that commits resources to running each class—so last-minute cancellations can significantly impact our ability to offer quality, affordable programs.
That’s why we’ve created a simple, transparent policy that balances your need for flexibility with our need to plan and deliver courses sustainably. Our cancellation policy offers two clear options, depending on when you notify us:
Cancel More Than 10 Days Before the Course Starts – You can choose to receive a full refund, minus a $45 administration fee OR a non-refundable credit note valid for 12 months for the full value you paid for the course. This credit can be used towards any future course at the College.
Option 2: Cancel Within 10 Days of the Course Starting - You’ll receive a credit note valid for 12 months for 50% of the course fee you paid for the course. This credit can be used towards any future course at the College.
Please note that both refund and credit options are only available before the course begins. Once the course has started—or if you decide to withdraw after it has commenced—no refunds or credits can be issued. If you need to cancel your enrolment, just email us and we’ll take care of it based on the timelines above.
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Tags:
How to Write Horror
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