About MA in Screenwriting for Film and Television

Application: IADT

What is Screenwriting?

This programme is intended to give writers the opportunity to explore, experiment and learn the craft of screenwriting, in conjunction with the development and writing of a full-length screenplay. 

Screenwriting is not a craft apart, it draws on the crafts and techniques of rhetoric and narrative which writers have been honing and developing since Homer. The programme positions screenwriting within the traditions of dramatic literature and provides you with the means and skill to express your individual and unique cinematic visions. The MA’s primary aim is to nurture and develop talent.

Our programme aims to inspire you to develop the art and craft of screenwriting and related ancillary skills to a high level. You will have already demonstrated an aptitude for writing (through your undergraduate studies or your portfolio work) and by the end of the programme, you will have written a full-length feature script.

You will also have an in depth knowledge and understanding of the craft of screenwriting, and will have gained a clear understanding of the stages of writing from idea to final draft.

You will also have a good knowledge of the existing opportunities in the film and television industries, and be acquainted with matters relating to copyright and contracts.

Full-time mode attendance: two days a week (total attendance aggregated over a week)

Part-time mode attendance: one day a week

Aims and Objectives

What will I be able to do when I graduate?

You may find careers in the Film and Television industry as screenwriters, editors and/or tutors/teachers.

What modules will I study?

The programme, divided into two semesters and delivered over thirty weeks, comprises four mandatory modules: Project Development, The Craft of Screenwriting, Dramatic Traditions, and Film History and Theory. 

Lectures and seminars by prominent writers, directors and producers will support the four modules.

What are the Entry Requirements?

• Undergraduate qualification of 2^nd Class Honours or higher at Honours Degree Level.
  
• In exceptional cases, applicants will be considered provided they can demonstrate Honours Degree equivalence, which can be verified through APEL (Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning) process. Applicants in this category will be required to present a qualifying essay of a standard that demonstrates their ability to undertake work at MA level.
  
• Portfolio submission, as part of your application
  
• Two references must also support your application 
  

It is essential that you have an aptitude and a demonstrated commitment to writing for the screen.

Applications, including the portfolio, are screened and short-listed. Short-listed applicants will be required to attend an interview.

 

What should my Portfolio include?

• Substantial relevant written material such as scripts, work published or produced for screen or radio, poetry, stories, etc.
  
• At least two script ideas in your portfolio application. These can be in the form of synopsis, treatment or first draft.
  

  

What are the fees?

In 2009/2010, € 6750 full-time and € 3,750 part-time per annum.

What is the closing date?

Application form and portfolio must be submitted to the Admissions Office in IADT.

1st round of applications: 7th May 2010.

2nd round of applications (if places available): 20th August 2010.

Referees must also return reference forms by these dates.

  

Download application form here or contact our Admissions Office on admissions@iadt.ie / (01) 239 4621