Please note that I supply a pattern as part of the course materials. A good source of practical info about most corset patterns is 'The Merry Corsetier' community on Livejournal
Butterick B4254
I use this pattern a lot for beginners classes - its an easy pattern but the instructions can be confusing. It has a nice shape but often needs lengthening. I would recommend a size down from your normal dress size for this pattern.
Laughing Moon LM100 Ladies Victorian Underwear
I've used the Dore pattern on a few occasions and its a nice curvy corset, easy to work with and straightforward to extend.
Truly Victorian TV110 1880's Late Victorian
A good first corset. Not the most exciting corset in the world but a good basic shape to adapt - altering bust outline, adding shoulder straps etc. Instructions are for basic 2 layer corset so its less scary than some...
Mantua-Maker No 1880-12 1870-1895 Corset
Not for beginners - you should definately have made up some other corsets before attempting this one. For a modern figure the gussets as drawn are too small. I like its length but its a bit of challenge with narrow panels and lots of boning.