Course summary
Could you write an award-winning film, TV drama or animation? Or devise a multi-layered narrative for a ground-breaking game? In partnership with BBC Drama - This rigorous, practical course has a long history of producing outstanding writers for film, television, animation and games, and will give you the chance to see your writing tested in production. The voice of the individual screenwriter is at the heart of our course. You’ll be taught by working screenwriters, producers and script developers, and your voice will be nurtured, developed and challenged to produce work of quality and originality, ready to take out to the industry. All aspects of professional screenwriting are addressed, with the added benefit that you will also collaborate with other departments – including fiction, animation, producing and games - putting into practice the skills you learn throughout the course.
Modules
This is a hands-on course set in a working film and television studio – something that is unique to studying Screenwriting at the NFTS. You’ll cover all aspects of screenwriting across film, television, games and animation, in different forms and genres, from the development of ideas, treatments and bibles, through the drafting of scripts, into production and post, and you’ll receive comprehensive preparation for the professional world of the screenwriter. You will also have your writing workshopped by professional directors and actors and, working with student producers and directors, have the chance to see your writing tested in production. Samples of your work will be read by literary agents, broadcasters, commissioners and film and television production companies, in advance of a round of industry meetings in your final term where you can pitch your ideas directly to the industry.
Assessment method
Assessment is based on a dissertation and a final portfolio.
Entry requirements
The course is intensive and full-time and requires a high level of dedication, a prolific output, and the ability to meet professional deadlines. You will need to display a talent and passion for screenwriting, a fund of ideas and the desire to tell stories for the screen. You may have written in other forms - plays, novels, short stories, journalism – or already have a body of work, but whatever your experience, your writing must demonstrate an original voice with something to say. Professional experience in any field is an advantage, in particular work in film, TV or theatre, or allied creative arts. A sound general knowledge of film, TV and theatre writing is expected, as well as a high level of self-discipline and personal motivation. While many applicants will have a degree from a British or overseas university, we will consider applicants who do not have a degree if they have an impressive portfolio, a creative track record or an alternative qualification. If you have any questions, please email [email protected].
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
No fee information has been provided for this course
Additional fee information
2025 Fees will be confirmed Spring/Summer 2024
Students with EU settled / pre-settled status will be eligible for home fees subject to residency checks.
Sponsorship information
NFTS Scholarships available for UK Students.
Provider information
National Film and Television School
Beaconsfield Studios
Station Road
Beaconsfield
HP9 1LG