Master of Fine Arts in Screenwriting California State University - Northridge, USA

Hone your storytelling skills and form career-defining connections in the entertainment capital of the world.

Why Get a Master's in Screenwriting?

With the growth of streaming services, screenwriters with diverse voices are in demand. With the training and resources that come with an M.F.A., you will be well-positioned to tell your unique story.

An M.F.A. in screenwriting means you will have dedicated time to hone your craft. You will receive feedback from professors who have worked in show business. Finally, you will learn firsthand the ins and outs of the entertainment industry.

Why Study Screenwriting at CSUN?

Taught by Seasoned Screenwriters

Our faculty are professional screenwriters who have a passion for sharing their craft. They have long-standing relationships in Hollywood so we have many guest speakers present in our classrooms. They include Robert Towne ("Chinatown"), Paul Thomas Anderson ("There Will Be Blood") and Anne Beatts ("Saturday Night Live").

Career-Focused Curriculum

Our curriculum is practical and focused. We teach you what you need to know to be a successful screenwriter without any fluff. Many of our students have jobs, so classes meet on weeknights so you can balance your school and work life.

Location, Location, Location

Our location means that we are a short drive from film and television studios and offices. Our proximity means we have a strong internship program for students.

Excellent Value

We’re affordable. Our screenwriting program costs a fraction of other comparable programs. At CSUN, you will get the best value for a world-class educational experience.

What You'll Learn

You'll learn how to take a story idea from your imagination and realize it in an edited script that's ready for production. In your classes, you'll analyze scripts and practice writing scenes for films and television. In your final semester, you will create a feature-length script as your thesis screenplay.

You will write screenplays and work samples with critiques from your cohort and our renowned faculty members. You will also practice pitching your work to agents and studios. Finally, you'll learn from presentations by professional guest speakers in film and TV.

By the time you graduate, you will have ready-to-pitch scripts and the ability to write new stories that will impact the industry and world.