Learn the basic elements of screenwriting for movies and TV via lectures, script readings, discussions, and in-class writing exercises. All the fundamentals of visual storytelling are covered in depth, including character, plot, theme, dialogue, genre, and format. Assignments familiarize you with dramatic conflict, scene structure, subtext, and subplots as you advance from idea to outline to scripted pages. By the end of the course, you will have an outline and about 30 pages of script. Registering at least three weeks prior to the course start date is highly recommended.
This course may be used to fulfill the requirements of the Certificate in Writing and Producing for Film and Television. It may be taken to pursue the certificate, or as a standalone course. Certificate students who wish may instead take Writing for the Screen: An Exercise-Based Approach as a substitution for Beginning Screenwriting. You might also consider taking TV and Film Producing, a single course that fulfills the requirements for the Certificate in TV and Film Producing (Accelerated).
Questions? Contact us at The Center for Publishing, Writing, and Media: Email sps.pwm.ce@nyu.edu or call 212-998-7289.
Continuing Education Units (CEU) : 3
You'll walk away with
- An overview of the basics of screenwriting
- Familiarity with the proper formatting and conventions of screenwriting
- An outline for an original film or TV show and 30 pages of script
Ideal for
- Students new to screenwriting
- Students with a love for film and an interest in the business
Upcoming courses
Registration is recommended at least three weeks before the course start date.
Upcoming courses
Registration for this course is closed.
Certificates that include this course
Earn a discount on courses by declaring your candidacy for a certificate.
