MFA in Film - Screenwriting and Directing in New York United States | Columbia University

The Screenwriting & Directing concentration aims to thoroughly educate aspiring filmmakers in crafting stories for cinema, TV, and digital platforms. Designed for those passionate about both scriptwriting and filmmaking, this program prepares students to excel as dual-role writer-directors. Participants learn diverse genre techniques and narrative approaches through hands-on writing assignments, directing exercises, short film productions, and screenplay development (ranging from brief scripts to full-length features). These experiences help students refine their artistic vision and develop a distinctive creative identity. Columbia's curriculum begins with a foundational first year of core classes and film projects common to all students, followed by specialized second-year workshops in writing and directing. The program concludes with thesis development and Research Arts projects. While typically spanning three years, students may extend to a fourth year with faculty approval. Graduates complete the program by assembling a professional portfolio showcasing their short films, feature-length screenplays, and television writing samples.