The M.F.A. Writing and Producing for Television program trains hyphenates—writer-producers—to become the creative leaders of television programming. As a student in this program, you will master story development, character development, story structure in all formats, and cinematic style. Through coursework, writing a portfolio of long- and short-form teleplays, and producing a thesis project, you will gain an insider's understanding of the TV business and all the know-how you need to launch your television career.
Why Choose Us?
The Writing and Producing for Television program will prepare you for a creative career in TV, whether at traditional networks or on new and emerging platforms, through a professional and challenging curriculum.
Coursework in the first two years centers on the development of spec scripts, pilots, and long-form teleplays, all of which are written in a writers room environment. But you'll also get a thorough grounding in writing plays, games, and the Internet. You also will be placed in internships with the television companies you most admire.
In this program, groups of eight students unite in a workshop setting where experimentation is applauded and imagination encouraged to roam. You will use the guidance and constructive critiques from your professors and colleagues to revise your writing constantly to create a portfolio of projects that illuminates your artistry and point of view. Close mentorship from our award-winning faculty, extensive hands-on production experience, and ample access to our industry-leading facilities and equipment, round out your immersion in learning how to become a showrunner.
By your third year, the creativity you have honed and the skills you have acquired are funneled into activities that prepare you for your career. You will get a scrupulous portfolio review, intensive pitching practice, and access to industry heavyweights during networking events. You will leave the program with a portfolio of speculative scripts, pilots, and a webisode or trailer for a series you will write and produce.
The program culminates in our annual First Pitch event, in which faculty bring more than 40 agents, managers, and other industry professionals to campus to meet SFTV’s M.F.A. writing graduates. You will pitch your portfolio to industry pros and discuss your vision for the stories you want to tell as a writer-producer. At the end of the night, the MFA Screenwriting Directory, containing your contact information and portfolio summary, is put into the hands of these powerful people who can help you launch your career.
