Film and Media Arts BFA with Screenwriting Concentration

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Temple University

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Screenwriting at Temple University is designed for aspiring writers who are passionate about storytelling through film and television. This program offers a comprehensive curriculum that combines creative writing with practical skills, making it ideal for students who want to develop their unique voice while mastering the craft of screenwriting.

Curriculum Structure:

In the first year, students dive into the fundamentals of screenwriting with courses like "Introduction to Screenwriting" and "Storytelling for the Screen." These classes focus on the basics of narrative structure, character development, and dialogue, providing a solid foundation for students to begin crafting their own scripts.

During the second year, students build on their foundational skills with courses such as "Intermediate Screenwriting" and "Writing for Television." This year emphasizes the importance of genre and format, allowing students to explore different styles of writing while honing their ability to create compelling stories for both film and television.

In the third year, students engage in more advanced coursework, including "Advanced Screenwriting" and "Adaptation." Here, they learn to refine their scripts through workshops and peer feedback, while also exploring the intricacies of adapting existing works into screenplays, which is a crucial skill in the industry.

In the final year, students focus on their capstone project with "Senior Thesis in Screenwriting," where they develop a complete screenplay or teleplay. This year is pivotal as students prepare for the professional world, showcasing their work in a portfolio that reflects their unique style and voice, while also participating in industry networking opportunities.

Focus Areas: Narrative structure, character development, genre exploration, adaptation, and industry practices.

Learning Outcomes: Mastery of screenwriting techniques, ability to critique and revise scripts, understanding of industry standards, and development of a professional portfolio.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The BFA in Screenwriting is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD), ensuring that the program meets high educational standards.

Reputation (Employability Rankings): Temple University consistently ranks well in employability, with strong connections to the film and television industry, enhancing graduates' job prospects.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Temple University, the BFA in Screenwriting program is designed to immerse students in the practical aspects of storytelling and script development. Students gain hands-on experience through a variety of projects, collaborations, and access to state-of-the-art facilities. The program emphasizes experiential learning, allowing you to refine your craft while working with industry-standard tools and resources.

Here are some key features of the BFA Screenwriting program that enhance your learning experience:

- Screenwriting Labs: Dedicated spaces equipped with the latest software for scriptwriting, including Final Draft and Celtx, allowing you to develop and format your scripts professionally.
- Collaborative Projects: Opportunities to work on group projects with peers in film production, giving you real-world experience in a collaborative environment.
- Internship Opportunities: Access to internships with local production companies, studios, and media organizations, providing valuable industry connections and practical experience.
- Field Trips: Regular excursions to film festivals, studios, and industry events, offering insights into the professional world of screenwriting and filmmaking.
- Access to Libraries: The Temple University Libraries provide extensive resources, including a vast collection of screenplays, books on writing, and access to online databases for research.
- Film and Media Arts Facilities: State-of-the-art production facilities, including sound stages and editing suites, where you can bring your scripts to life.
- Workshops and Guest Lectures: Regular workshops and lectures from industry professionals, giving you the chance to learn from and network with experienced screenwriters and filmmakers.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Screenwriting at Temple University prepares students for a dynamic career in the film and television industry. Graduates often find themselves in roles such as screenwriter, script consultant, and production assistant, equipped with the skills and knowledge to thrive in a competitive landscape. The program not only emphasizes creative storytelling but also provides practical experience that leads to successful career outcomes:

- University Services: Temple offers dedicated career services, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and networking events specifically tailored for screenwriting students. The Film and Media Arts department also hosts guest lectures and workshops with industry professionals.

- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: According to recent data, over 80% of graduates from the BFA Screenwriting program secure employment in their field within six months of graduation, with starting salaries averaging around $50,000 annually, depending on the role and location.

- University–Industry Partnerships: Temple has established partnerships with local and national production companies, providing students with internship opportunities and real-world experience that can lead to job placements after graduation.

- Long-term Accreditation Value: The BFA in Screenwriting is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD), ensuring that the program meets high educational standards and is recognized by employers in the industry.

- Graduation Outcomes: Alumni have gone on to work with major studios and networks, contributing to award-winning projects and gaining recognition in the industry.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the BFA in Screenwriting, students have the option to pursue a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Screenwriting or related fields, which can further enhance their skills and open doors to higher-level positions in the industry. Additionally, students may choose to specialize in areas such as directing or producing, allowing for a broader range of career opportunities. Temple’s strong alumni network and ongoing industry connections can provide valuable support as you continue your academic journey.