Writing for Script & Screen MA (Online)

In this module, you will examine, explore and practice the fundamental questions of storytelling and script writing: 'How do we tell stories for the screen and how do we experience stories as audiences?' 

You will learn specific screenwriting skills including script formatting, visual storytelling, character and structure, and the fundamentals of pitching. 

(30 credits)

In this module you will learn more complex elements of screenwriting related to deep structure, including genre, theme and audience studies in feature films, television series and games. 

(30 credits)

In this module you will have the choice of working collaboratively or alone on a professional brief. 

Students will have the chance to situate themselves in a hypothetical industry scenario where they work in groups to 'break' and write an episode of a television series. Students will also learn how to assemble professional readers reports where they can greenlight or pass on a project. 

(30 credits)

In this module, you will learn strategies for promoting yourself as a freelance screenwriter. 

You will identify an area of special interest and research contemporary practice to produce a case study that evaluates current markets and opportunities. 

You will also develop an industry standard pitch deck for a long form film, series or game in line with the standards of Netflix, Amazon Studios and other leading streamers. 

(30 credits)

In the final module, you will work on a major script development project for a platform/medium of your choice. 

You can either further develop work that you have produced on other modules, or you can develop a new concept.  

You will also develop a critical essay to reflect on your creative process and how it aligns with contemporary industry practices.

(60 credits)

You'll learn through a blend of lectures, webinars, guest talks, tasks and discussion forums, which you'll access via our dedicated virtual learning environment. This is also where you'll find all key documentation, get course announcements and access extensive learning resources. 

What are my study hours?

You'll refine dynamic screenwriting practices, spending 20-25 hours a week working on your craft. 

Find out more about learning online

You'll be supported academically by Online Tutors, who will also deliver weekly webinars and facilitate the online forums. As you progress through the course, formal teaching will gradually shift towards more independent exploration and learning. 

If you need assistance with anything that isn't directly related to course material, a dedicated Student Advisor team will be on hand to help. You'll also have access to Falmouth University's excellent Employability Service. 

Assessment provides the course team with a means of offering tailored guidance alongside advice on how to progress knowledge and skills in key areas that relate to the course Learning Outcomes. The course team will identify your strengths and weaknesses as an individual and discuss them with you throughout your time on the course. 

You will be assessed via coursework at the end of each module in the form of visual, verbal and written assignments. You will also receive regular feedback via webinars, Q&As and workshops with your peers. 

You can apply to begin your studies in September 2024 by selecting the relevant course route below:

Apply for MA

Apply for PGDip

You can apply to begin your studies in January 2025 by selecting the relevant course route below:

Apply for MA

Apply for PGDip

Qualifications 

An honours degree or Level 6 equivalent qualification. 

A piece of sample writing in the form of a screenplay, formatted to an industry standard. The screenplay can be as long as you wish but should be at least 5 pages. It can be an excerpt of a larger piece of writing. You can also submit other pieces of sample writing such as short stories, plays or radio dramas along with your screenplay, to support your application. 

If your first language is not English, you'll need to take one of the following tests to verify your proficiency: 

• IELTS - minimum overall score of IELTS 6.5 with at least 6.0 in Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening 
• TOEFL iBT (online test) - minimum of 88 overall and at least 21 in all 4 components 
• LanguageCert (online test) - a High Pass from the ESOL B2 Communicator test in reading, writing, speaking and listening (2 parts) 

We accept a number of additional English language qualifications as well. 

Candidates without a degree or formal qualification are also encouraged to apply. If you have prior learning or experience with this subject, you may even be able to apply for Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL). You can learn more about this via our APL guide. 

For more information on course requirements, including advice regarding your eligibility, please get in touch via the form at the end of this page.