A biography is the story of someone’s life and often highlights their work, achievements, and what contribution they have made to the world. A biography may cover a person’s whole life or only a short period, from a week to a few years. Popular subjects for biographers include historical figures, actors, artists, writers, and political figures.
The Certificate of Biographical Writing is an online program that will teach you how to research, write, edit and publish a biographical piece for publication.
In this professional development course, you will learn about different types of research and information gathering techniques and how to apply the art of fiction to the craft of biography.
You will also learn how to create a biographical timeline, analyse the life of your subject, decide on content, style and structure, and understand the publishing process, copyright and libel laws. In the final lesson, you will bring together everything you have learnt, undertake research and conduct a draft biographical piece of between 2000 and 4000 words.
On completion of this course, you will bring together everything that you have learned to undertake research and construct the first draft of a biography.
Course Structure
Unit - Biographical Writing
Unit 1 – Scope and nature of biographical writing
- The difference between a biography and autobiography
- Unauthorised biographies
- Using ghost writers in biographies
- Choosing your subject
- Biography vs. Memoir
Topic 2 – Researching a biography
- Types of evidence
- Using evidence
- Fair use
- Where to find evidence
- Conducting an interview
- How to deal with conflicting sources and information
- Citations and referencing
Topic 3 – Developing context
- Determining your theme
- Developing the theme
- Themes and structure
- Using context
Topic 4 – Short biographies
- Principles of the Short Biography
- Distilling Information
- Preparing to write from life experience
Topic 5 – Comprehensive biographies
- What makes a comprehensive biography comprehensive?
- Writing a great biography
- Voice in writing
- Unit 6 – planning a biography
- The short outline
- The detail-heavy outline
- Outlining the biography
- Defining a theme, writing to a central theme
- Word budget
- Organising chapter content
Topic 6 – Editing and marketing a biography
- Editing
- Writing a sales package
- The publishing process
- Publishing processes for Ebooks
- Self-publishing your work
- Distributing and selling your work
- Grants for writing
Study Hours
Estimated duration 50 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.
Testimonials
I enjoyed the activities and gained some valuable practical experience.
G. Ewart, Kirwan, QLD | Certificate of Biographical Writing
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 entry requirements or pre-requisites for entry into this program.
How long will it take to complete this course?
The approximate study hours for this course is 50 hours. We offer twelve (12) months’ access, with extensions available upon application (fees apply).
Can I purchase optional printed materials?
While printed materials are not available for purchase, PDF copies are available for download and self-printing for this program.
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.
Will I receive a certificate upon completion of this course?
Yes! You will receive a Certificate of Attainment upon successful completion of your assessment.
Do I need to attend classes or undertake any work placements?
No. All courses are delivered online via our e-learning system 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 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.
Payment Options
Visa, Mastercard, BPAY and Direct Deposit
Career Pathways
Future growth
Strong
Unemployment
Low
- Aspiring biographers
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