About MA in Screenwriting

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.

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.

What subjects will I study?

The programme, divided into two semesters and delivered over thirty weeks, comprises four mandatory modules: Project Development, 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?

• Portfolio submission, as part of the application
• Two references must also support the application
• Undergraduate qualification of 2nd 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.

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?

Any queries relating to the 2008/09 Fees, please contact
the Admissions Office 01 2394621 in the first instance.

Closing Dates for Application?

Application form and portfolio must be submitted to IADT by 4pm on Friday,
8th May 2009. Referees must also return reference forms by this date.

Applications must be made directly to IADT by 4pm on Friday, 21st August, 2009.

Contact the Admissions Office for the programme application form.

Download Application Form