Screenwriting - MA or MFA in Creative Writing

Q: Is this a low-residency screenwriting program?

Yes. The Screenwriting concentration uses a low-residency model that combines live virtual coursework with immersive summer residencies in Gunnison, Colorado, allowing students to pursue graduate study in screenwriting without relocating.

Part of: Graduate Program in Creative Writing

Offered as: Master's Concentration

Degree: Master of Arts or Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing

Part of: Graduate Program in Creative Writing

Offered as: Master's Concentration

Degree: Master of Arts or Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing

Where words become motion pictures.

For writers seeking a masters-level program in screenwriting, Western’s Screenwriting concentration offers advanced graduate study through the MA or MFA in Creative Writing.

As one of five concentrations in Western’s Graduate Program in Creative Writing, the Screenwriting concentration provides a supportive literary home for writers who see stories in motion. Grounded in the power of visual storytelling, the program offers a welcoming, creatively rigorous environment where students develop original work for film and television while refining their unique narrative voice.

Designed for working professionals, this screenwriting-focused master’s pathway blends live virtual coursework with intensive, one-on-one mentorship from industry-experienced screenwriters. Students build a personalized, professional portfolio while learning the practical realities of the entertainment industry. Whether pursuing the one-year MA or the two-year MFA terminal degree, students graduate prepared to move their scripts from the page to the screen.

Let's connect!

Screenwriting students sit around a table and clap for their peer after she shared some of her writing during class for the GPCW summer residency.

The Screenwriting concentration translates the language of human experience into the visual rhythm of film and television. Through focused mentorship and sustained creative practice, students learn how story, structure, and character operate within the demands of the screen.

The program offers both a one-year MA and a two-year MFA terminal degree, allowing students to choose the pathway that best aligns with their professional goals in film, television, and digital media.

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.

Is there a master’s degree in screenwriting?

Students earn a Master of Arts (MA) or Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing while specializing through the Screenwriting concentration. This structure provides masters-level study in screenwriting within an accredited creative writing degree.

What is the difference between an MA and an MFA in Screenwriting?

The MA is a one-year degree focused on foundational coursework and portfolio development. The MFA is a two-year, terminal degree that allows for deeper specialization and advanced mentorship while building a comprehensive screenwriting portfolio.

Is this program focused on film or television?

Both. Students develop original work across formats, including feature-length screenplays, short films, and television pilots, gaining experience in the full spectrum of visual storytelling.

Is this a low-residency screenwriting program?

Yes. The Screenwriting concentration uses a low-residency model that combines live virtual coursework with immersive summer residencies in Gunnison, Colorado—allowing students to pursue graduate study in screenwriting without relocating.

Do I need screenwriting experience to apply?

No prior professional screenwriting experience is required. Applicants are evaluated based on storytelling potential, creative samples, and interest in developing scripts for film and television.

What kind of mentorship will I receive?

Students receive personalized mentorship from industry-experienced screenwriters through workshops, one-on-one feedback, and guided portfolio development.

What will my portfolio include when I graduate?

Graduates leave with a polished, industry-ready portfolio that may include television pilots, feature-length screenplays, short-form scripts, and other original screenworks.

Will this program help me understand the film and television industry?

Yes. In addition to craft, students learn the practical realities of the entertainment industry, including professional expectations, pitching, revision processes, and career pathways.

Is this program suitable for working professionals?

Yes. The low-residency format is designed for working writers, allowing students to maintain their careers while engaging deeply with screenwriting study.

Can this program help me pursue a career in film or television?

Yes. Graduates are prepared to pursue opportunities in film, television, digital media, and related storytelling fields, supported by a strong creative portfolio and mentorship network.

Can I apply if my background is not in film or creative writing?

Yes. Students from diverse academic and professional backgrounds are encouraged to apply. The program values varied perspectives and a commitment to visual storytelling.

The professors are knowledgeable, kind, and understanding of the fact that every student has their own voice as a writer and a need to express it in their own way. The students have a broad range of tastes and experiences and are eager to share that part of themselves, while also learning about and supporting the tastes and experiences of others. It’s an environment where creativity thrives.

Reanna Gonzalez, MFA

Screenwriting – MA or MFA in Creative Writing

Admissions, Cost & Requirements

Joining Our Community: MFA Admissions & Requirements

We welcome applications for the Master of Fine Arts on a rolling basis from August 1 through May 31. Because our cohorts are small and highly personalized, we recommend applying early to secure your spot for our June start date. You can expect a decision from us within four weeks of completing your application.

What You’ll Need to Apply

A Bachelor’s Degree: Official transcripts from an accredited college (a 3.0 GPA is recommended).
A Personal Statement: A 1,000-word reflection on your experience, your commitment to the writing life, and why Western is the right home for your goals.
Two Professional Recommendations: Letters from mentors or colleagues who can speak to your readiness for graduate-level craft.
A Writing Sample: This is your chance to share your voice with us. Requirements vary by concentration:
- Poetry: 10–15 pages.
- Nature Writing: 20–25 pages (any genre or mix).
- Genre Fiction: 20–25 pages.
- Screenwriting: 15–30 pages of a screenplay or short film script.

Our Approach to Admission

We believe in potential. If you don’t meet every requirement for full admission, you may be considered for Provisional Admission, giving you the space and time (up to one year) to complete any necessary prerequisites while beginning your journey with us.

Apply Now
Program Information

Departmental representatives determine if graduate classes completed at other accredited institutions can be transferred to the respective Western graduate studies programs. Transfer credits must be listed and approved by the major advisor on the degree plan. Transferred graduate credits must be:

Earned at a regionally-accredited institution.
Numbered at the graduate level and accepted as part of a graduate degree program at the sending institution.
Passed by the student with a grade of B or above (courses with grades such as pass/fail or satisfactory/unsatisfactory are not acceptable).
Earned within the past five years unless a department specifies otherwise.
Account for no more than nine credits towards a Western degree.

Students must provide official transcripts, and request and receive permission in writing from Western to transfer coursework.

Joining Our Community: MA Admissions & Requirements

We welcome applications for the Master of Arts on a rolling basis from August 1 through May 31. Because we focus on small cohorts and high-level mentorship, we recommend applying early to secure your spot for our June start date. You will receive an admissions decision within four weeks of completing your application.

What You’ll Need to Apply

A Bachelor’s Degree: Official transcripts from an accredited college (a 3.0 GPA is recommended).
A Personal Statement: A 1,000-word reflection on your writing experience, your commitment to the craft, and how Western can help you reach your professional goals.
Two Professional Recommendations: Letters from individuals who can speak to your readiness for graduate-level work.
A Writing Sample: This is our first look at your voice. Please follow the guidelines for your chosen concentration:
- Poetry: 10–15 single-spaced pages.
- Nature Writing: 20–25 pages (any creative genre or a mix).
- Genre Fiction: 20–25 pages (ideally from a single work).
- Screenwriting: 15–30 pages of a screenplay.
- Publishing: A 3- to 5-page critical assessment of a provided story.

Our Approach to Admission

We look for potential and dedication. If you don’t meet every requirement for full admission, you may be considered for Provisional Admission. This path allows you up to one year to complete any necessary prerequisites as you begin your journey with our faculty and community.

Apply Now
Program Information

Earned at a regionally-accredited institution.
Numbered at the graduate level and accepted as part of a graduate degree program at the sending institution.
Passed by the student with a grade of B or above (courses with grades such as pass/fail or satisfactory/unsatisfactory are not acceptable).
Earned within the past five years unless a department specifies otherwise.
Account for no more than nine credits towards a Western degree.

Students must provide official transcripts, and request and receive permission in writing from Western to transfer coursework.

Investing in Your Writing Life

We believe in transparency when it comes to the cost of your education. Our low-residency model is designed to be accessible, allowing you to maintain your professional life while you pursue your degree. Tuition is billed by the credit hour, allowing you to manage your investment as you progress through the program.

Tuition & Program Value

Tuition: $749.60 per credit hour.
Standard Graduate Fees: $73.40 per credit hour (includes administrative operations, library, and IT services).
One-Time Matriculation Fee: $50.00. Applies once to new students in their first fall semester.
Summer Residency Fee: $600.00 (charged only during the summers you attend the residency in Gunnison).

Program Totals at a Glance

Master of Arts (MA): A focused 15-month journey totaling 30 credits. The estimated total for tuition and fees is $25,940.00.
Master of Fine Arts (MFA): A deep 27-month immersion totaling 60 credits. The estimated total for tuition and fees is $51,230.00.

All tuition and fees are subject to change, and any updates will be announced prior to the summer term.

For both the MA and MFA programs, students have a maximum of five years for completion of a master’s degree from initial enrollment as a graduate degree seeking student. In order to maintain active status, graduate students must register in at least one graduate course per academic year.

A graduate degree is a transformative step that deepens your specialized knowledge and refines your artistic practice. At Western, your chosen concentration allows you to shape your expertise through high-level coursework, culminating in a final project or thesis that serves as a cornerstone for your long-term writing life.

Whether you seek the one-year MA for focused professional development or the two-year MFA terminal degree for university-level teaching and deep craft exploration, our program is built to support your unique journey.

Explore Your Program Path:

MA Program Requirements: A streamlined, one-year path to professional growth.
MA Degree Plan: View the course sequence tailored to your concentration.
MFA Program Requirements: The two-year terminal degree path for a deeper dive into craft and pedagogy.

MA Program Requirements MA Degree Plan MFA Program Requirements MFA Degree Plan

Both the MA and MFA programs are designed for flexibility. While many students follow the full-time track, you have the option to attend half-time or take a leave of absence if life requires it. You have up to five years from your initial enrollment to complete your degree.

We’re excited about your interest in applying to the Graduate Program in Creative Writing with a concentration in Screenwriting! Before starting your application, please take a moment to review the requirements and deadlines. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re happy to help.

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Scholarships & Financial Aid

GPCW Financial Aid

The GPCW is deeply committed to raising funds to support our students. Each year, we offer substantial direct-funding scholarships. Learn more about offered our scholarships & financial aid.

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Graduate Financial Aid

Graduate students at Western receive financial support from various sources, including personal savings, loans, scholarships, fellowships, and graduate assistantships. Learn more ways to offset these costs through financial aid opportunities.

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Experiential Learning

GPCW – Masterclasses

The GPCW offers free masterclasses for folks at any stage in their writing journey. These virtual classes are available to anyone, anywhere.
Read More
GPCW – WordFire Press

Western's Publishing students gain firsthand experience in editing, marketing, and distributing books through an established publishing company.
Read More

Screenwriting
Communication
Script Analysis and Criticism
Copywriting
Proofreading
Research

Screenwriter
Commercial Copywriter
Story Analyst/Consultant
Literary Agent
Proofreading
Research

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Common Questions

Common Searches

Reanna Gonzalez, MFA

Joining Our Community: MFA Admissions & Requirements

Joining Our Community: MA Admissions & Requirements

Investing in Your Writing Life

GPCW Financial Aid

Graduate Financial Aid

GPCW – Masterclasses

GPCW – WordFire Press

Top Skills

Career Pathways

Amy Fox, MFA

Mitali Jahagirdar, MFA

Kimberlea Kressal, MFA

JS Mayank, MFA

James Napoli, MFA

Liz Sczudlo

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Director

Associate Director

Program Coordinator