Screenwriting – Creative Writing

Our program is a supportive literary home where the “language of human experience” is translated into the visual rhythm of the screen. We offer both a one-year MA and a two-year MFA terminal degree, providing a path that honors your specific professional goals.

• A Personal Apprenticeship: In a field that can often feel inaccessible, we offer a small, welcoming community where you receive personalized mentorship from a diverse faculty of accomplished content creators.
• The Full Spectrum of Story: We focus on nurturing your unique voice as you produce multiple original screenworks, from short films to feature-length scripts and television series.
• A Professional Portfolio: You will leave the program with a polished, industry-ready portfolio, gaining critical skills through dynamic coursework and invaluable real-world insights from industry experts.
• A Creative Fellowship: Our summer residencies bring together all concentrations, reinforcing the bond of creativity you share with peers from diverse backgrounds who encourage exploration and individuality.
• Built for the Working Writer: Our low-residency model allows you to dive deep into the world of film without leaving your home or current career, blending live virtual classes with the visceral connection of our summer residencies in Gunnison.

Whether you are writing your first pilot or refining a feature-length script, our program provides the technical mastery and communal support to help you see your stories in motion.

Our program is designed to be as dynamic as the screen itself, blending the flexibility of online learning with the visceral, creative energy of our summer residencies. Under the leadership of Concentration Director James Napoli, you will move through an efficient curriculum designed to help you produce at least three original works for the screen.

A Community of Award-winning Storytellers

You won’t just study film; you will apprentice with those who create it. You will be mentored by a faculty of accomplished content creators including Kimberlea Kressal, JS Mayank, and Liz Sczudlo. Our students also benefit from regular interactions with legendary guest experts such as Oscar winner Callie Khouri and Emmy nominee Rick Cleveland, providing you with invaluable real-world insights into the industry.

Your Learning Path

• The Summer Residencies: Your journey begins in Gunnison, Colorado. MFA students attend three residencies to develop their visual narrative style and workshop full screenplays. MA students attend two residencies focused on foundational skills. These gatherings bring all concentrations together, reinforcing the bonds of creativity you share with a diverse, supportive community of writers.
• The Academic Year: During the fall and spring, you will engage in two online courses per semester. These workshops focus on nurturing your unique voice while providing high levels of individual feedback on your scripts.
• Professional Readiness: From industry networking to career planning support, you will gain the critical skills needed to navigate the ever-changing film and streaming landscape. You will leave us with a polished portfolio and the confidence to present your work professionally.