MFA in Screenwriting in Northridge United States | California State University, Northridge

CSUN's Master of Fine Arts in Screenwriting is a rigorous 42-unit, two-year program focused on television and film writing. The curriculum emphasizes cultivating the skills needed to craft original narratives in your distinctive style. Our faculty consists of active and former industry professionals who teach within their specialized fields.

The program begins with an immersive first semester where you'll develop a full season arc and draft a one-hour spec script in a simulated professional Writers Room environment. You'll also study narrative structures and storytelling methods used in engaging feature films across genres, while outlining and writing the opening act of an original screenplay.

During the second semester, you'll finish your feature script's first draft, compose a half-hour comedy spec, and outline an original pilot. Additionally, you'll explore cinema and television history while designing a screenwriting course syllabus and delivering a sample lesson in our pedagogy class.

The third semester involves crafting an original one-hour pilot and beginning a second feature's first act while developing your thesis project for either television or film. You'll also take a producing course instructed by former development/production executives.

Your final semester centers on perfecting your thesis, completing an internship, and participating in a Business of Screenwriting course where you'll develop pitch materials. Industry professionals including writers, producers, agents, and attorneys will share insights about sustaining a screenwriting career, industry operations, and professional development through both virtual and in-person sessions.