| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2025-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
MA Screenwriting (Global Online)
Overview
This 2-year online MA is founded in cutting edge research into screenwriting technique specifically designed to create empowered, innovative, convention-challenging screenwriters with the will and the expertise to break boundaries and create screen stories of international quality.
Mode of Study:
Online learning
Duration:
2 years
Start date:
September
Course details
This programme aims to empower students to construct the mix of knowledge, skills and understanding necessary to become the kind of screenwriter they want to be, broadening not just their core writing skills but their knowledge of the rapidly changing markets and contexts in which screenwriting occurs.
- Writing & Screen Project Development (20 credits)
- Script Workshop 1 (20 credits)
- Unconventional Approaches (20 credits)
- Major Project Research (20 credits)
- The Business of Screen Project Development (20 credits)
- Script Workshop 2 (20 credits)
- From Script to Screen (20 credits)
- Major Project (40 credits)
How you’ll be taught
The course is rooted in student-centred active learning, meaning you’ll learn by doing: completing writing assignments, workshopping your coursemates’ work and completing individual and group learning activities. Asynchronous self-directed work that you complete in your own time will be balanced with synchronous online classes.
Assessments
You’ll complete a mixture of creative assessments and academic assignments like essays and case studies, building your critical thinking and research skills to MA level as well as your creative practice. You’ll build up from short film scripts to 30min scripts to a feature-length Major Project where you’ll put all the skills you’ve learned into action.
Entry requirements
- Bachelor (Honours) Degree at 2:2 or above
- Applicants will also be required to attend an interview and/or be asked to show evidence of an aptitude for the course, appropriate experience, and an indication of how they might benefit from the course
- Personal statement outlining why they want to write for the screen (maximum 300 words)
- Outline for a feature film or single television drama (maximum one page)
- Writing sample - this may be a short film script or an excerpt from a feature film script or television drama (maximum 10 pages)
English language
If your first language isn't English, you'll normally need to undertake an approved English language test. The English Language requirements for this programme are IELTS (Academic) with an overall score of 6.0 with no individual component score of less than 5.5.
International students
We welcome applications from students studying a wide range of international qualifications.
Fees & funding
The course fees you'll pay and the funding available to you will depend on a number of factors including your nationality, location, personal circumstances and the course you are studying.
Tuition fees for 2024/25
| 2024/25 | 2025/26 | |
|---|---|---|
| UK Students | £885 | £945 |
| Overseas Students | £905 | £965 |
Careers
The course gives you the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue a career as a screenwriter, script editor or development professional.
Edinburgh Napier University
Overview:
Edinburgh Napier University is a modern university located in Edinburgh, Scotland. It is renowned for its student learning experience and its commitment to innovation and enterprise. The university boasts a diverse student body with over 20,000 students from over 140 countries.
Services Offered:
The university offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Libraries and Heritage Collections:
Access to extensive library resources and heritage collections.Accommodation:
On-campus accommodation options for students.Student Life:
Opportunities for student engagement through clubs, societies, and events.Funding:
Bursaries and scholarships to support students financially.Career Services:
Guidance and support for career development and job searching.International Student Support:
Dedicated services for international students.Online Study:
Flexible learning options through online courses.Short Courses:
Opportunities for professional development through short courses.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Edinburgh Napier University provides a vibrant and engaging campus experience. Students can participate in a variety of activities, including:
Clubs and Societies:
Joining clubs and societies related to their interests.Events:
Attending university-organized events and social gatherings.Sports:
Participating in sports teams and activities.Student Union:
Engaging with the student union for representation and support.Key Reasons to Study There:
High Rankings:
Consistently ranked among the top modern universities in Scotland and the UK.Student Satisfaction:
High student satisfaction rates, reflecting a positive learning environment.Research Power:
Strong research output and impact, contributing to knowledge advancement.International Focus:
Diverse student body and global partnerships, fostering a multicultural environment.Career-Focused Education:
Programs designed to equip students with the skills needed for successful careers.Academic Programs:
Edinburgh Napier University offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:
