What You'll Learn in an NYU Online Screenwriting Class
Screenwriting classes are a great opportunity for students to build a strong knowledge base before jumping into the competitive world of the film industry. They’re also an excellent way to begin building a portfolio of work, as well as a crucial network of connections.
The NYU Tisch Writing for the Screen course is an online screenwriting class taught by seasoned industry professionals that’s designed to give students the solid grounding they need to embark on a screenwriting career. Here’s what you need to know about what you’ll learn in this six-week course.
What Does An Online Screenwriting Class Look Like?
An online screenwriting course is conducted via an e-learning platform and may include virtual lectures, either attended live via video call or pre-recorded for students to view on their own time. These classes typically last anywhere from four to six weeks, and often include assignments that are done independently, or in small groups using a dedicated chat or video application.
Online screenwriting courses fall into two categories. Synchronous programs happen at the same time for all students on a regular weekly schedule, with live feedback on assignments; asynchronous programs take place on an individual student’s chosen timeline, using pre-recorded lectures and pre-assigned work that can be completed at any time during the course duration. Both methods have their benefits and drawbacks. Synchronous courses require regular attendance and offer little flexibility, but offer more chances for direct engagement, while asynchronous courses offer little direct engagement but are highly flexible and allow students to work at their own pace.
What You'll Learn in an NYU Online Screenwriting Class
NYU Tisch’s Writing for the Screen is a six-week synchronous program that runs in six sessions throughout the year—two in Spring, two in Summer, and two in the Fall. The course is taught by a range of distinguished NYU Tisch instructors, including Charlie Schulman, whose work has earned him such honors as the Charles MacArthur Award for Comedy, the Paulette Goddard Fellowship, and the Avery Hopwood Award for Drama.
In this course, students will examine the elements that go into creating successful, impactful, and meaningful stories in a visual format. This includes coverage of story development and structure; understanding screen-specific writing language; and the differences between traditional writing and writing for a visual audience. Additionally, this course includes practical writing assignments that will have students collaborating with faculty to create a finished film treatment and 10-page script by the end of the course.
The course does not require students to use any particular screenwriting software. Students will be expected to return daily and weekly assignments that will be reviewed and discussed with staff during regular sessions throughout the six-week period. Beyond that, students have the freedom to engage with the pre-recorded lectures and modules at their own pace via the state-of-the-art Smashcut e-learning platform.
How to Enroll in an NYU Online Screenwriting Class
Students must be 18 or older and have proficiency in the English language. To enroll, or to gather more information about the program, students can simply visit the NYU Tisch website. (Please note: once enrolled, students should add nyutisch@smashcut.com to their inboxes and check regularly for time-sensitive emails, as some of these will need responses.)
Is a Screenwriting Class Right For You?
Screenwriting is a fascinating field with multiple dimensions that can only be learned through practical instruction and experience. Working with a seasoned industry professional on a flexible course schedule can ensure that you are acquiring all the necessary skills and knowledge to embark on this exciting career path.
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