About MA in Screenwriting

This Masters 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 situates screenwriting within the traditions of dramatic literature and provides you with the means and skill to express your individual and unique cinematic visions.  Its primary aim is to nurture and develop talent.

Aims and Objectives

• To enable students who already demonstrated an aptitude for writing through their undergraduate studies, or their portfolio work, to develop the art and craft of screenwriting and related ancillary skills to a high level
• To enable you to complete a full-length screenplay (90 minutes)
• To develop critical and analytical skills in the study of film, literature and the dramatic arts
• To provide skilled writers to satisfy the needs of a growing industry

On completion of the programme, you should:

• Have an in depth knowledge and understanding of the craft of screenwriting – with specific emphasis on the feature length drama script for film or television
• Have applied that knowledge and understanding to a professional standard in your personal work/final submission for the programme – a full-length feature script, of the highest standard, will be expected from each student
• Have a clear understanding of the stages of writing from idea to final draft
• Have had the practical experience applying the understanding of film grammar through studio exercises
• Have a good understanding of the collaborative nature of film making
• Have a clearer sense of your own creative vision, career path and suitable subject matter/genre
• Have a good knowledge of the existing opportunities in the film and television industries
• Have had a professional writer as a mentor and contact with other writers, directors and producers working in the industry
• Have an in-depth understanding of modes of research
• Be acquainted with matters relating to copyright and contract
• Have a good academic knowledge of the history and theory of film

What will I be able to do when I graduate?

Careers in the Film and Television industry as screenwriter

What subjects will I study?

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

• Modules 1 and 2 focus on the craft of creative writing and on building the core skills for screenwriting.  These modules are taught through schedules lectures, seminars and practical classes and you will be expected to submit essay work
• Module 3 is the Project Development and its runs throughout the year
• Module 4, the academic component, is taught through lecture and tutorial.  You must submit an extended essay for assessment.

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

What are the Entry Requirements?

A portfolio must be submitted as part of the applications procedure.  Two references must also support the application.  Applicants must also meet the following requirements:

• Hold an Honours Degree (second class honours minimum).  This degree will normally be held in the field of study appropriately related to the subject of the Masters.  However, this is not a prerequisite

Or

• Qualify for a limited number of places under the APEL (Accreditation of Prior and Experiential Learning) scheme.  These places are reserved for exceptional applicants who have proven relevant experience and whose academic background is non-traditional.  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 all candidates have an aptitude and a demonstrated commitment to writing for the screen.

What should my Portfolio include?

• Your portfolio should contain substantial relevant written material such as scripts, work published or produced for screen or radio, poetry, stories etc
• You must submit at least two script ideas in your portfolio application.  These can be in the form of synopsis, treatment or first draft

Is there an interview?

Applications, including the portfolio, are screened and shortlisted.  Shortlisted applicants will be required to attend an interview.

What are the fees?

The fees in 2006/2007 are €5,685. The fees include examination, registration and student services fees. 

Tax Relief for Fees Paid:

This is an “approved post-graduate course” for tax relief under Section 21 of the Finance Bill 2000 and students may be eligible for tax relief for fees paid.

* Note: This programme is subject to reaching a minimum number of participants in order to proceed.