Writing for the Screen and Stage
The Master of Arts in Writing for the Screen and Stage provides an immersive and craft-focused curriculum designed for students who want to develop original narrative voices across film, television, and theatre. The program blends coursework in screenwriting craft, dramatic structure, character development, and visual storytelling, allowing learners to explore narrative form while refining their artistic instincts. Through writing workshops, script analysis, and collaborative critique, students gain a deep understanding of how stories function on the page and in performance, learning to shape compelling scripts that resonate emotionally and structurally. This academic foundation supports the development of a versatile writing skill set that can adapt to various entertainment mediums.
The program also emphasizes hands-on creative practice through industry-aligned projects, staged readings, and collaborative productions that simulate professional writing environments. Students engage with faculty mentors, guest artists, and industry practitioners who help strengthen abilities in script revision, dialogue construction, story analysis, and collaborative development processes. Exposure to real production workflows, professional pitching strategies, and writers’ room dynamics enables learners to understand how creative decisions translate into performance. By connecting theory with applied storytelling, the program prepares students to navigate both the artistic and professional dimensions of writing for visual and performing arts.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Writing for the Screen and Stage
- Degree Type: Master of Arts
- Duration: 2 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 15 December 2025
- Location: Northwestern University, United States
- Field of Study: Film Studies
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Dramatic Writing & Narrative Craft
• Fundamentals of Screen and Stage Writing
• Character Construction and Dialogue
• Visual Storytelling and Scene Design
• Script Analysis for Film and Theatre
Semester 2 – Applied Writing Practice & Medium-Specific Techniques
• Writing for Television
• Intermediate Screenwriting Workshop
• Playwriting and Theatrical Form
• Rewriting and Workshopping Strategies
Semester 3 – Advanced Script Development & Production Insight
• Feature Screenwriting
• Episodic Storytelling and Writers’ Room Simulation
• Staged Readings and Performance Development
• Writing Across Genres and Formats
Semester 4 – Thesis, Professional Preparation & Industry Engagement
• Thesis Script Development
• Pitching, Industry Practices, and Portfolio Building
• Collaborations with Directors and Performers
• Final Script Presentation and Review
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for creative and professional roles across film, television, theatre, and digital storytelling industries. Many pursue work in screenwriting, playwriting, television writing rooms, and creative development departments, producing original scripts or contributing to collaborative narrative projects. Responsibilities may include drafting and revising screenplays, developing characters and story arcs, analyzing scripts for production teams, pitching narrative concepts, and working with directors, actors, and producers to refine material for performance. With strong training in dramatic craft, narrative structure, and creative collaboration, graduates also find opportunities in content development for streaming platforms, theatre companies, independent film, interactive media, and live performance. The program further provides a solid foundation for careers in literary management, dramaturgy, creative consultancy, or advanced studies in writing and storytelling.
Why Choose This Program
This program is an excellent choice for students who want to cultivate a distinctive narrative voice while gaining practical experience that reflects contemporary writing industries. Its curriculum emphasizes creative development, professional writing practice, and structural mastery, offering a progression from foundational craft to advanced script authorship. The two-year format supports sustained mentorship, immersive workshops, and opportunities to develop a polished writing portfolio that showcases each student’s artistic range. Learners benefit from access to industry perspectives, collaborative production experiences, and environments that nurture long-term creative growth. For individuals aiming to enter film, television, or theatre with a strong creative foundation and industry-ready skills, this program provides a rigorous and inspiring academic pathway.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 312 555 2040
Email: admissions@northwestern.edu
Address: University of Northwestern, 633 Clark Street, Evanston, IL 60208, United States
