Leeds Beckett University

Overview

Embark on a transformative journey in screenwriting at Leeds Beckett University’s Northern Film School. This postgraduate course is designed to help you cultivate a professional screenwriting portfolio focused on feature films and continuing series. Through industry-led instruction and self-directed writing projects, you will refine your storytelling abilities and deepen your understanding of character and genre craft.

What you'll study

Modules typically include:

• Storytelling – Explore narrative principles, character development, and dramatic structure to understand how stories are constructed for the screen.
• Creative Screenwriting – Engage in script development through hands-on writing exercises, drafting, and receiving iterative feedback.
• Genre – Analyze genre conventions and learn to leverage them to create unique, audience-oriented writing.
• Feature Film – Focus on developing feature-length narratives and scripts, mastering scene construction and pacing.
• The Writers Room – Collaborate on series writing, including pitching, development processes, and dynamics within a writers' room.
• Writing for an Industry Context – Gain insights into professional practices, self-positioning as a writer, and aligning your work with industry expectations.
• Final Project – Complete a major writing piece or portfolio that showcases the screenwriting skills you have developed throughout the course.

Assessment: You will typically be assessed through a mix of written submissions, drafts, and your final project portfolio. Specific assessment methods may vary based on the module.

Entry requirements

• Typically, applicants should hold at least a lower second class honours degree or equivalent experience in a relevant field.
• A portfolio demonstrating your screenwriting aptitude is required. This should include creative work that reflects your understanding of storytelling, ideally featuring examples of screenwriting.
• Your portfolio should be organized chronologically and may encompass relevant projects from your academic background, along with any polished material that highlights your writing capabilities.
• Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview, which could be conducted electronically or via telephone for international applicants.
• All applications should include a reference, either academic or professional.

Career prospects

Graduates of this screenwriting program will be well-equipped to pursue diverse career paths within the film and television industries. Opportunities may include working as screenwriters, script consultants, or in various roles within production companies. The skills and knowledge gained from this course will prepare you to navigate the evolving landscape of storytelling in visual media.