MA Creative Writing Scriptwriting

University of East Anglia UEA

The scriptwriting strand of our world-renowned MA Creative Writing has three core modules. First, Dramaturgy, in which you will study the core principles of drama as explored from Aristotle to McKee and as embodied in a range of plays, films and TV programmes, from Antigone to Game of Thrones.

You will also take part in the Scriptwriting workshop, building upon your study of dramaturgical theory where each week you will benefit from the scrutiny and feedback of your fellow writers and workshop leaders, such as the renowned playwrights Steve Waters and Timberlake Wertenbaker. You will incorporate this theory into your own writing practice in weekly creative development workshops, completing scriptwriting and planning exercises. Over the course of the workshop, you and your fellow writers will bring your exercises to the group for discussion and evaluation.

Alongside these modules runs the Process module, where you will develop a short script for your choice of medium, building an idea from concept to realisation under the keen eye of an industry expert and exploring the modes of script development that are common practice for working writers.

Over the summer you will also write a dissertation, under the supervision of a member of our faculty.

Prepare for a career writing for theatre, film or television with an MA that allows you to explore and produce dramatic writing across the media. You’ll study both the theory and practice of dramatic writing, addressing contemporary critical debates, analysing written and performance texts, and experimenting with a range of techniques in original writing. You’ll develop your skills in constructive criticism and creative editing of your peers’ writing, creating a supportive writers’ network in the process.

You’ll be taught by renowned theorists, practitioners and visiting specialists through seminars, presentations, screenings, workshops, readings and performance visits. All with the rigour and professional insight that are the hallmark of our creative writing teaching.