We have been running our copywriting course since 2003. During this time, we have seen huge growth within the copywriting industry. The need for skilled and certified copywriters is the highest it ever has been. We do not see this slowing down – quite the opposite.
Choosing the right copywriting course can be a tough task – especially with so many online course providers offering courses within this highly competitive sector.
We have put together this checklist to help you benchmark against other copywriting course providers, and to help you make the most informed and educated decision as possible.
We understand that our own copywriting course may not be the right fit for you, and we know that many other great copywriting courses are available.
This advice is accurate, objective, and follows our accreditors’ marketing rules.
1. Accreditation
Although there is no official regulating body for the copywriting industry, it’s always imperative to check that any copywriting course has been externally accredited. This means that the provider has undertaken a rigorous external inspection of its procedures, teaching material and tutors. Accreditation also protects your interests as a learner and safeguards you because the provider will usually have to adhere to a strict code of conduct.
2. Who are the course tutors?
When choosing a copywriting course, it is vital to check who the tutors are, and whether they have any genuine experience within the field. Most online copywriting course providers will list the tutors on their website and will provide a comprehensive overview of their experience. You should also be able to find their LinkedIn bios, which will list all of their skills and experiences.
3. Tutor support
Check how much tutor support is offered. Some copywriting courses don’t offer any, some limit theirs, while some offer their tutor support on an unlimited basis. There is no right or wrong choice. It all depends on what you are looking for.
4. How regularly is the course updated?
Copywriting is a very fast-moving industry with changes to technology happening almost every day. It is important to check that any copywriting course you are looking to purchase, is up to date and in sync with latest trends.
5. Course delivery
Copywriting courses are delivered in a variety of formats. Some are delivered in real time and are taught via Zoom, Google Classroom or other similar video software, while others are delivered as downloadable content. The latter is usually more accommodating for those with busier lifestyles, but it really does come down to personal preference.
6. How many modules / lessons are there?
Looking at the total number of lessons within a copywriting course is usually a great way to gauge how comprehensive it is, as well as giving you a clear understanding of exactly what is covered.
7. Practical assignments
It is important to check whether a copywriting course is theory based, practical, or both! We find the best is a balance of both. A course that allows you to put the theory into practice is usually the best option. Again, this does come down to personal preference, so it’s up to you to decide what suits you best. Practical assignments can also be used to form a portfolio, so it’s also worth bearing this in mind too.
8. Copywriting course tutor marked assignments
Try to find out how many assignments are personally marked by a tutor, with in-depth and constructive feedback. Courses that offer tutor marked assignments usually cost more, as you are paying for the experience and expertise of an expert.
9. Help finding work after your copywriting course
It is always good to check if the learning provider offers you support at the end of your course. Many online copywriting courses offer help with CVs, covering letters, interview preparation and much more.
10. Help starting a freelance career
Becoming a freelance copywriter can be a very lucrative career option. Always check if a copywriting course offers advice on starting in the freelance world.
11. Certifications and awards
Certificates are a great way to prove that you have undertaken a copywriting course, and to demonstrate your credibility. So, make sure you check what certificate you get, if it’s accredited, and also if it’s endorsed by an awarding body.
12. References from your tutor
When applying for jobs, it is always of great benefit to have a glowing reference. Check if the copywriting course you are looking at offers a personal reference for any jobs you apply for.
13. Staff training options
Some copywriting courses offer staff training options. If you want to book a copywriting course for your team, or an individual member of your organisation, it is best to contact the course provider directly to discuss this.
14. History
Check how long the course has been running for. There are plenty of ‘get rich quick’ copywriting courses around, as well as many new courses being offered for as little as £10. We are not saying that these courses do not work, but it’s always good to practice due diligence before making a purchase.
15. Awarding body
Remember to ask a copywriting course provider if their certifications have been endorsed by a recognised awarding body.
16. UK Register of Learning Providers
If you are looking to study a UK based copywriting course, it is helpful to ensure that the provider is on the UK Register of Learning Providers. You can check here
17. Quality endorsement
Find out if the learning provider’s course materials, tutoring, practices and policies have been independently assessed for quality.
18. Expiry dates
Check how long you have to complete your online copywriting course.
19. Reviews
It goes without saying that reviews are important. They give the buyer a good idea of how other people found the course. It is also good practice to check the reviews on independent sites such as Google and Facebook.
20. Success stories
It’s important to check if a course actually works and does what it claims to do. Success stories are a very good way of doing this, and most copywriting course providers list their learner’s success stories on their websites.
These can easily be verified and validated through sites like LinkedIn and you can also ask the provider to put you directly in touch with the course participant. Most providers will more than happy to facilitate this for you.
21. Access to materials
Check how long you have access to your course materials for. Lots of copywriting course providers limit this, so make sure you invest in a course that you can realistically complete within the given timeframes.
See our copywriting course