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Certificate in Screenwriting
Course Overview
Course Objective
Students will gain a foundation understanding of screenwriting principles and techniques — including log line and synopsis writing, character development, dialogue writing, step outlining, and script development — enabling them to write effective short scripts and grow as screenwriters.
What You'll Learn
Develop a strong understanding of screenwriting principles and techniques
Write effective log lines and synopses
Understand character development and write believable, nuanced characters with effective dialogue
Write a step outline and develop a full script from it
Write short scripts for film and apply screenwriting principles across multiple formats
Analyse successful screenplays and apply lessons learned to your own writing
How You're Assessed
Assessment
Ongoing Assessment
40%Quizzes & tests
20%Practical exercises & scripts
10%Class participation & engagement
10%Final Assessment
60%Short script
30%Step outline & script development
15%Final written exam
15%Contact hours: 2 hrs/week lecture & discussion + 2 hrs/week practical exercises, tutorials & mentorship — 4 hours total per week.
Attendance: Given the intensive nature of this course, unapproved absences may negatively impact your academic performance and final grade. Please notify your instructor in advance if you need to miss a class.
20 Weeks · 1 Semester
Course Curriculum
Six months moving from screenwriting fundamentals through character development, step outlining, and short script production — finishing with writing for music video and television commercial formats.
Theory
- ›Introduction to screenwriting principles and techniques
- ›Understanding the role of the screenwriter in the film and television industry
- ›Writing log lines and synopses
Theory
- ›Understanding character development
- ›Writing effective dialogue
Practical
- ›Writing a 10-minute script with two characters only in one location
Theory
- ›Understanding the purpose and format of step outlines
- ›Developing scripts from step outlines
Practical
- ›Writing a step outline for a short script
Theory
- ›Understanding the format and structure of short scripts
Practical
- ›Writing a 5-minute script utilising three locations, using the step outline as a guide
Theory
- ›Understanding the format and structure of music video scripts and television commercials
Practical
- ›Writing two music video scripts
- ›Writing four television commercial scripts
Your Script — Brought to Life
As part of the screenwriting programme, students will have the opportunity to see their 5-minute scripts brought to life by students from other faculties — including Directing, Producing, and Acting.
Although screenwriting students will be engaged in their own classes during this time, they are encouraged to participate in pre-production, production, post-production, and post-screening discussions. This hands-on exposure develops a deeper understanding of the collaborative nature of filmmaking and how scripts are interpreted and realised on screen.
Ready to Start?
Enrol in Certificate in Screenwriting
Turn your ideas into scripts. Contact our admissions team to learn more about intake dates and enrolment requirements.