Film - Writing for Film and Television
The Film: Writing for Film and Television Master of Arts program at Columbia University is a three-year, full-time graduate program designed to prepare students for careers as professional screenwriters, television writers, and creative storytellers. The curriculum emphasizes narrative craft, character development, screenplay structure, and storytelling techniques across multiple media formats. Students study both classic and contemporary film and television, analyzing how cultural, social, and artistic contexts shape narrative forms. The program balances creative exploration with rigorous mentorship, enabling students to develop distinctive voices while mastering the technical skills necessary for the industry.
Students engage in extensive writing workshops, collaborative projects, and individualized mentorship with accomplished faculty and industry professionals. Columbia’s program fosters a professional understanding of the entertainment industry, including pitching, script development, and production considerations. Coursework and practical assignments focus on writing for feature films, television series, and digital media, with opportunities to explore cross-genre storytelling, adaptation, and experimental formats. Through iterative feedback, peer critique, and portfolio development, students build a body of work that demonstrates both artistic originality and professional readiness.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Film - Writing for Film and Television
- Degree Type: Master of Arts
- Duration: 3 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 19 December 2025
- Location: Columbia University, United States
- Field of Study: Film Studies
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Screenwriting
- Introduction to Screenwriting for Film and Television
- Narrative Structure and Character Development
- Genre Studies and Storytelling Techniques
- Workshop: Short Film Scripts
Year 2 – Advanced Writing and Collaborative Projects
- Television Writing and Series Development
- Adaptation and Interdisciplinary Storytelling
- Advanced Screenwriting Workshop
- Elective: Documentary or Experimental Media Writing
Year 3 – Professional Portfolio and Industry Preparation
- Feature Film Script Development
- Capstone Project: Full-Length Script or Pilot
- Industry Practices and Professional Development
- Seminar: Pitching, Marketing, and Production Strategies
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in film studios, television networks, streaming platforms, and digital media production companies. Many become screenwriters, television writers, script editors, or content creators, contributing to both mainstream and independent projects. Others work in creative development, production consulting, or educational roles, using their expertise to mentor, guide, or design media content. Columbia’s strong connections to the film and television industry, combined with its rigorous workshop-based training, position graduates to enter competitive professional environments and advance careers in writing, production, and creative storytelling.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for students who want to develop professional screenwriting skills while exploring creative and narrative innovation for film and television. Columbia University offers a vibrant academic and professional environment with access to accomplished faculty, industry mentors, and a dynamic media community. The three-year curriculum allows for both intensive skill-building and portfolio development, emphasizing collaboration, critical feedback, and professional readiness. Graduates leave equipped to produce compelling scripts, navigate industry practices, and establish themselves as creative leaders in film, television, and digital media storytelling. For those committed to shaping narrative content and contributing to the evolving entertainment landscape, this program provides the expertise, experience, and professional network necessary to succeed.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 212 854 1754
Email: admissions@columbia.edu
Address: University of Columbia, Admissions Office, New York, NY, United States
