Students begin their screenwriting journey with a strong foundation in the basic building blocks of solid, engaging storytelling. Students will mine their own lives in order to create memorable stories, characters, and settings. Additionally, students will learn basic screenwriting skills such as character development, constructing atmosphere, and the fundamental components of a scene. PREREQUISITE(S): None

Advanced critical analysis of multiple film structures beginning with a solid understanding of classically structured linear narratives told in three acts and ultimately exploring non-traditional feature film structures including but not limited to: ensemble, multiple protagonist, non-linear and episodic. Films will range from classic Hollywood films to contemporary independent films. Students will learn various theorists' approaches to terminology (which may include Snyder, Field, Campbell, and Howard) in order to develop a language with which to discuss scripts and finished films, both other people's work as well as in developing their own. PREREQUISITE(S): None

This advanced course examines the development process that enables the screenplay's journey from draft to screen. By crafting professional coverage and development notes, the class will deconstruct feature length scripts and student work in an effort to forge them into cinematically viable properties. The assignments and class discussions are designed to expose the inner workings of Hollywood and provide a framework for what it takes to succeed in the entertainment industry. Enrollment is only open to MFA students. PREREQUISITE(S): None

In this course, students study and analyze produced motion picture scripts. This course emphasizes the use of traditional storytelling, classical mythology and how these devices apply to contemporary screenplays. Students will move from concept/treatment to a completed first act of a feature length screenplay of their own. This script will be completed, revised, and polished in DC 403 and DC 404. PREREQUISITE(S): DC 201

In this class, students will learn the basic teleplay structures for both half-hour and hour-long television shows. Students will choose an existing show and write a spec episode, practicing the skills of matching character voice, structure, and tone. PREREQUISITE(S): DC 101, DC 201, or DC 501

This course focuses on the writing of the second and third acts of feature length screenplays. Students finish and begin revising the first draft of the script started in DC 402. Emphasis is placed on proper character development, effective use of conflict, and adherence to the three act structure. PREREQUISITE(S): DC 402

Advanced study in screenwriting focusing on a specific genre each quarter such as: Science Fiction, Film Noir, Comedy, Action-Adventure, Nonfiction, etc. May be repeated for credit. PREREQUISITE(S): DC 201

Production of a feature-length digital motion picture written by students or faculty within the Digital Cinema program. Students will work as crew under supervision of faculty members heading each of the various production areas. Goal is to produce a completed digital motion picture suitable for festivals or distribution. In addition to production work, graduate students are required will write a 7-10 page paper which analyzes the experience and how it relates to their MS/MFA course of study.

In this class, students complete a feature length outline and first act of their thesis script. Extensive feedback from in-class workshops and thesis advisors provide a viable framework for the completion of the project, which is completed in Thesis II and III. PREREQUISITE(S): Instructor permission

In this course, students analyze half hour situational comedy teleplays. The course will feature a specific focus on story-telling styles and techniques of successful sitcom predecessors, various formats of sitcom teleplays, and methods for pushing original projects out into the world. Students will create an original sitcom pilot. PREREQUISITE(S): DC 400

In this course, students analyze hour-long dramatic teleplays. This course features a specific focus on story-telling styles and techniques of successful dramatic predecessors, various formats of hour-long drama teleplays, and the definition and significance of "show bibles". Students will create an original hour long pilot. PREREQUISITE(S): DC 400

In this class, students complete the second and third acts of their thesis script. Extensive feedback from in-class workshops and thesis advisors provide a viable framework for the completion of the project, which is completed in Thesis III. PREREQUISITE(S): DC 561

Modeled after professional writing assignments, this advanced course challenges students to write a feature length screenplay in ten weeks. Lectures and strict weekly page submission deadlines provide a practical framework on how to write quickly without sacrificing quality. Constructive analysis will be used in discussing produced scripts, weekly assignments and group workshops to reveal the writer's unique voice and perspective. It is imperative students possess a viable concept and outline before enrolling. PREREQUISITE(S): DC 403

In this class, students complete a polish of their thesis script. Extensive feedback from in-class workshops and thesis advisors provide a viable framework for the completion of the project. PREREQUISITE(S): DC 562

Students will hear from guest speakers representing the wide spectrum of roles in the business of making movies. Speakers may include agents, managers, entertainment lawyers, producers, writers, directors, and development executives. Students will learn valuable industry skills and will prepare, practice, and perfect their own pitches. PREREQUISITE(S): DC 101, DC 201, or DC 501