MFA in Screenwriting in Boston United States | Boston University

Boston University's MFA in Screenwriting provides the ideal combination: academic training on the east coast paired with professional exposure on the west coast.

Through this four-semester, dual-city program, aspiring writers develop the abilities, practical knowledge, and professional connections needed to break into film and television writing. The journey begins with three semesters in Boston, where students join a supportive community of like-minded creatives. The College of Communication maintains intentionally small class sizes to foster collaboration between students and faculty.

The final semester takes place in Los Angeles, where participants complete industry internships, learn from seasoned professionals through guest lectures, and connect with BU alumni. Every student refines their craft through a rewrite course, perfecting a script initiated during their Boston studies. Details regarding the LA semester (including expenses, coursework, and accommodations) are available on the Study Abroad site.

Throughout the program, students complete at least seven writing projects:

Two full-length feature scripts
Two short film scripts
An episode for an existing hour-long drama series
An episode for an existing half-hour comedy series
An original television pilot with accompanying series bible

4 Semester Program