Master of Fine Arts in Screenwriting

The MFA in Screenwriting, a low-residency, joint degree between Creative Writing and Film, is designed to produce a new type of graduate, one geared toward versatility and self-sufficiency. Our program seeks to provide career enhancing opportunities to students of underserved populations. Curriculum options have been organized to encourage artistic expression, critical thinking and ethical responsibility in media. Intensive study in writing for film and television combines with course work in narrative forms such as the novel, playwriting and adaptation of those literary forms for the screen. In addition, students receive training in areas of video production and writing for interactive media. The goal is to educate a complete filmmaker, capable of handling multiple aspects of getting a story idea onto a screen and into the film and new media economy. Training in how to create a budget and seek funding and a general literacy about the business aspects of the film, television and media industries as they currently exist prepare students for the “new Hollywood”—the decentralized, streaming-oriented industry in which independence and the ability to work with micro-budgets and larger budgets alike allow the writer-filmmaker to in essence be their own start-up, as well as to participate in emerging forums for filmmaking. Our MFA in screenwriting is focused on this central vision, its curriculum encouraging multiplicity, adaptiveness and a broad creative spirit ready for all contingencies. A strong teaching faculty on both sides of the equation and ample opportunity to create multiple filmic projects while in residency ensure a thoroughly prepared MFA graduate at the end of this process.

Each student is required to create a substantive body of work, at a professional level, culminating in a thesis project of their choice, which incorporates research, exploration, and meaningful contribution to their chosen industry. Public exhibition of thesis work appropriate to project type is expected through screenings, festivals, etc.

This program is geared toward working professionals and individuals who aspire to integrate into the professional industry. Support, resources and opportunities are presented for the motivated student to develop professional connections in the industry while they are in the program. This facilitates a more timely and smooth transition into positions in the industry than might be possible without such resources and opportunities.

Mount Saint Mary’s University is regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

Total Credit Hours: 48