Explore Culture, History & Humanities Courses
Explore our extraordinary range of History, Culture and Writing courses and lectures. We offer both introductory and specialist in-depth courses to suit all levels of interest and experience, from ‘How to read a film’ and World literature, to Creative non-fiction writing courses and American history and Politics courses.
Our tutors are experts in their fields and experienced educators; many have published, teach in universities or share their expertise in the media. Tutors share their knowledge and passion through presentations, readings, interactive discussion and exercises, analysis, and other activities.
Many students return to take more courses, telling us they enjoy being part of our City Lit Learning community.
Our popular courses often sell out quickly, so we invite you to browse and book your place now.
- Remodelling Europe after the First World War: the fate of the vanquishedCourse start date: Wed 10 Sep 2025
Location on this date: Keeley Street
Tutors: Sebastien ArdouinThe defeat of Germany, Austria-Hungary, the Ottoman Empire and Bulgaria in 1918 had profound territorial, political and economic consequences on the future of these countries, some of which are still felt today.Full fee £309.00 Senior fee £247.00 Concession £201.00 - Ways into screenwriting
Course start date: Wed 7 May 2025 (and 4 other dates)Location on this date: Keeley Street
Tutors: Nico MensingaLearn to write for the screen on this practical, introductory course. Writing exercises, presentations and screenings will teach you key skills, and you’ll begin to produce work and an outline for a full-length project.Full fee £239.00 Senior fee £239.00 Concession £120.00 - Ways into poetryCourse start date: Wed 30 Apr 2025 (and 7 other dates)
Location on this date: Online
Tutors: Cecilia KnappRelatively new to writing poetry? This inspiring course offers an opportunity to experiment with language and a variety of poetic devices alongside fellow emerging poets. Discover the key elements of a poem in a friendly and interactive class.Full fee £239.00 Senior fee £239.00 Concession £120.00 - Ways into creative writing Course start date: Wed 7 May 2025 (and 16 other dates)
Location on this date: Keeley Street
Tutors: Claire CollisonWant to have a go at creative writing in a supportive environment? Join one of these introductory courses. Guided exercises will give you the tools to explore language creatively and find your own writing voice.Full fee £239.00 Senior fee £239.00 Concession £120.00 - The history of Western art in 100 paintingsCourse start date: Wed 24 Sep 2025
Location on this date: Off Site
Tutors: Julia MusgraveA chronological introduction to Western art from c.1250 to the present day, taught by looking at artworks in London’s galleries, and related materials.Full fee £679.00 Senior fee £543.00 Concession £441.00 - Writing fantasy stories Course start date: Wed 30 Apr 2025 (and 1 other date)
Location on this date: Online
Tutors: Victoria M. AdamsBuild fantastical worlds, fill them with compelling characters and learn how to structure innovative plotlines in this perfect introduction for those with a passion for fantasy.Full fee £249.00 Senior fee £249.00 Concession £125.00 - Islamic art in the medieval worldCourse start date: Wed 24 Sep 2025
Location on this date: Keeley Street
Tutors: Anita ChowdryA course examining the formation and development of Islamic Art and Design; looking at the role of ideology and patronage, and the key influences that went into its development and evolution.Full fee £309.00 Senior fee £247.00 Concession £201.00 - Ways into playwriting Course start date: Wed 30 Apr 2025 (and 3 other dates)
Location on this date: Online
Tutors: Nicole AcquahExplore the fundamental techniques of writing for the stage in this introductory course. Get to grips with dialogue, character, story and structure, and start work on your own play.Full fee £239.00 Senior fee £239.00 Concession £120.00 - More current affairs Course start date: Wed 30 Apr 2025
Location on this date: Keeley Street
Tutors: Michael BloomfieldContinue your exploration of current affairs through lively, informed discussion. Run as a tutor-moderated discussion group of current news events. This course follows on from 'Current affairs' but new students are welcome. Tutor: Michael Bloomfield.
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