M.A. in Anthropology
California State University, Northridge (CSUN) offers a dynamic and comprehensive Maste...
M.F.A. in Screenwriting
Los Angeles, California
INTAKE: Fall
Program Overview
The Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) in Screenwriting program at California State University, Northridge (CSUN) is a prestigious and comprehensive program designed to nurture and develop aspiring screenwriters into industry-ready professionals. With its strong emphasis on storytelling, creativity, and practical skills, this program equips students with the tools they need to excel in the competitive world of screenwriting. The M.F.A. in Screenwriting program at CSUN combines a strong academic foundation with practical experience, faculty expertise, and industry connections to prepare students for fulfilling careers in screenwriting. Whether aspiring to write for film, television, or digital media, this program provides the essential skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the competitive world of storytelling in the entertainment industry.
Curriculum:
1. Program Structure: The M.F.A. in Screenwriting at CSUN is typically a three-year, full-time program, although part-time options may be available. The program's structure consists of a combination of core courses, electives, workshops, and practical experiences.
2. Faculty Expertise: CSUN boasts a highly experienced and accomplished faculty, many of whom are active industry professionals with extensive credits in film and television. These professors provide invaluable insights, mentorship, and networking opportunities to students.
3. Storytelling Focus: The program places a strong emphasis on the art of storytelling. Students learn the fundamentals of crafting engaging narratives, developing compelling characters, and structuring screenplays that resonate with audiences.
4. Workshop-Based Learning: A significant portion of the curriculum involves workshops where students write and revise screenplays under the guidance of faculty and industry mentors. These workshops offer a hands-on approach to learning the craft of screenwriting.
5. Genre Exploration: Students have the opportunity to explore various genres, including drama, comedy, science fiction, horror, and more. This exposure helps them develop versatility and adaptability as screenwriters.
6. Industry Connections: CSUN's location in the heart of the entertainment industry, near Hollywood, provides students with unparalleled access to industry professionals, networking events, and internship opportunities.
7. Internships: The program encourages students to undertake internships with industry organizations, studios, production companies, and agencies. These internships provide real-world experience and valuable industry contacts.
8. Screenwriting Competitions: CSUN students are often encouraged to submit their work to screenwriting competitions and festivals. Success in these competitions can lead to recognition and industry attention.
9. Thesis Project: In the final year of the program, students typically complete a thesis project, which involves writing a feature-length screenplay. This project serves as a culmination of their learning and showcases their abilities as screenwriters.
10. Screenings and Showcases: CSUN frequently hosts screenings of student work and showcases to celebrate and share the accomplishments of its screenwriting students. These events offer exposure and networking opportunities.
11. Facilities: CSUN provides state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated writing labs, production equipment, and editing suites, ensuring that students have access to the tools they need to bring their creative visions to life.
12. Alumni Success: Graduates of CSUN's M.F.A. in Screenwriting program have gone on to achieve success in the entertainment industry, with some earning credits for major films and television series.
Location
Los Angeles, California
Score
IELTS: 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 15432
Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs
Application Fees : US$ 70
1. Academic Qualifications: A bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution is required for admission to a postgraduate program at CSUN. Applicants must have completed their undergraduate education with strong academic performance.
2. Minimum GPA: CSUN typically looks for a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) or its equivalent.
3. English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 is required, with no individual band score below 6.
- TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based Test): A minimum overall score of 80 is required.
- PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum score of 58 is required.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): A minimum score of 105 is required.
California State University, Northridge (CSUN), is committed to supporting international students in their pursuit of higher education. The university offers a range of scholarships and financial aid options to help alleviate the financial burden of studying in the United States.
1. International Achievement Scholarship: CSUN's International Achievement Scholarship is designed to recognize and reward outstanding academic achievement. Eligibility is based on academic excellence, and recipients can receive up to $5,000 per academic year.
2. The Dream US Scholarship: This scholarship is specifically aimed at undocumented students, including those with DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) status. It provides financial support to help cover tuition and other educational expenses.
3. Intensive English Program (IEP) Scholarships: CSUN offers scholarships to international students who enroll in the Intensive English Program (IEP). These scholarships are awarded based on merit and help students improve their English language skills.
4. Privately Funded Scholarships: CSUN administers several privately funded scholarships that are available to international students. These scholarships may have specific eligibility criteria related to academic major, community involvement, or other factors.
5. Study Abroad Scholarships: CSUN encourages international students to participate in study abroad programs. The university offers scholarships to help offset the costs associated with studying abroad, including program fees and travel expenses.
6. External Scholarships: CSUN also assists international students in identifying external scholarship opportunities. These scholarships may be offered by government agencies, foundations, and international organizations.
7. Athletics Scholarships: CSUN has a competitive NCAA Division I athletics program. Talented international student-athletes may be eligible for athletics scholarships based on their sports achievements.
8. Cultural Scholarships: Some cultural organizations and clubs on campus may offer scholarships to international students who are actively engaged in promoting and celebrating their cultures.
9. Graduate Assistantships: For international graduate students, CSUN provides opportunities for graduate assistantships that offer a stipend and may include tuition remission. These positions allow students to gain valuable experience while pursuing their degrees.
10. Research Assistantships: - International graduate students can also explore research assistantship positions that provide financial support while contributing to research projects in their field of study.
Application Process: To be considered for scholarships at CSUN, international students typically need to complete the scholarship application provided by the university. Each scholarship may have specific eligibility criteria, deadlines, and application requirements.
The Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) in Screenwriting program at California State University, Northridge (CSUN) is a dynamic and highly regarded program that equips students with the skills and knowledge needed for successful careers in the competitive field of screenwriting. Graduates of this program are well-prepared to pursue a wide range of exciting and rewarding career prospects in the world of film, television, and media.
1. Professional Screenwriter: Many M.F.A. in Screenwriting graduates go on to become professional screenwriters. They write scripts for feature films, television series, web series, and other forms of media. CSUN's program provides students with the expertise and creative prowess needed to craft compelling and marketable screenplays that can captivate audiences.
2. Script Development: Graduates often find positions in script development and analysis, working for production companies, studios, or independent filmmakers. Their expertise in storytelling and script evaluation is highly valued in the industry, where they help identify promising scripts for production.
3. Teaching and Academia: Some M.F.A. graduates choose to share their knowledge and passion for screenwriting by pursuing teaching careers. They may become professors at universities or colleges, offering instruction in screenwriting and related subjects. Academic research and publications in the field are also viable options.
4. Script Editing and Consulting: Graduates can work as script editors or consultants, helping screenwriters refine their work. They provide valuable feedback, assist in script revisions, and contribute to the overall quality of scripts before they go into production.
5. Screenplay Competitions: Participation in screenwriting competitions is a common avenue for M.F.A. in Screenwriting graduates. Winning or placing in prestigious competitions can provide exposure and open doors to industry professionals, potentially leading to production opportunities.
6. Film and Television Production: Graduates may work in various production roles within the film and television industry. They can serve as producers, directors, or production managers, leveraging their understanding of screenwriting to shape the visual storytelling process.
7. Media and Entertainment Management: Some alumni enter the business side of the entertainment industry, pursuing careers in media and entertainment management, marketing, or talent representation. Their deep understanding of storytelling can be a valuable asset in these roles.
8. Transmedia Storytelling: With the rise of digital media, there is a growing demand for transmedia storytellers who can create narratives that span multiple platforms, such as film, television, video games, and social media. Graduates with M.F.A. degrees are well-suited for such roles.
9. Independent Filmmaking: Many graduates choose the path of independent filmmaking, where they can develop and produce their own projects. CSUN's program equips them with the practical skills needed to bring their creative visions to life.
10. Entrepreneurship: Some alumni start their production companies or content creation ventures, driven by their creative and entrepreneurial spirit. They may create their content or offer services to other filmmakers.
