Digital print technology has dramatically changed self-publishing with eBooks and POD, but also in the areas of marketing and promotion. This course will cut through the hype and misinformation providing you with the information you really need to know.

Course Description

Thinking about self-publishing your writing? 

Whether you’ve completed a novel, memoir, poetry collection or nonfiction book, Self-Publishing is a practical course designed to help you understand how to bring your work to life. 

This introductory course explains the self-publishing process from start to finish, covering everything from printing options and cover design to copyright, publicity, and book distribution.

You'll explore the advantages and challenges of self-publishing and learn what’s involved at each stage. 

The course includes specific advice tailored to different types of writing, helping you decide whether self-publishing suits your goals. 

Through clear explanations and open discussion, you’ll leave with the knowledge and confidence to take the next step on your publishing journey.

Course Structure

The course begins by defining self-publishing and outlining the different formats and platforms available. 

From there, you’ll look at the pros and cons, with examples of how self-publishing can (or may not) work for various genres such as fiction, memoir, poetry, or short stories. 

The tutor will walk through each step of the publishing process including cover design, printing, ISBNs, copyright, promotion, and distribution, highlighting legal obligations and timelines. 

Questions and group discussion are encouraged throughout, helping you clarify the best path forward for your own writing.

Course Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

• Define what self-publishing is and how it differs from traditional publishing
• Identify the pros and cons of self-publishing
• Understand the key elements involved in the self-publishing process
• Evaluate if self-publishing is suitable for their specific type of writing
• Know the steps required to publish their work independently
• Recognise the timeframes and order of tasks involved in a successful self-publishing process
• Be aware of important legal and practical considerations (eg; copyright, ISBNs, and publicity)