It all starts with the script. Screenwriting is the craft of writing stories as scripts for film and television. Whether crafting their own ideas or collaborating with others, screenwriters set the tone, create compelling characters, and kickstart the process that leads to what an audience sees on screen. A screenwriting career starts with developing strong samples and learning how the industry works.
Learn screenplay craft and format
Start with the fundamentals: writing visually and economically, scene construction, proper formatting and the differences between writing feature-length films vs. episodic TV.
Read scripts like a writer
Study professional screenplays and pilots to understand pacing, character construction, story structure and genre expectations.
Write portfolio-ready samples
Focus on completing polished work that shows range and voice. Typically, a feature script and/or an original pilot.
Workshop, revise, repeat
Screenwriting is rewriting. Use structured feedback (table reads, workshops, and notes) to strengthen character, dialogue, and story logic across multiple drafts.
Build professional readiness
Learn pitching, collaboration, and how projects move from idea to script to production. You’ll start building relationships through internships, student and independent productions, and industry events.
Do I Need to Go to Film School to Become a Screenwriter?
“You don’t have to go to film school to become a screenwriter. You can do it on your own, but it’s a longer, lonelier road.” – Susan Isaacs, Assistant Professor, Screenwriting
No, but film school can accelerate your growth through mentorship, structured learning with deadlines. Most importantly, you will build your very own creative network of fellow writers, directors, and producers.
At Chapman’s Dodge College of Film and Media Arts, students can pursue dedicated screenwriting pathways such as the BFA in Writing for Film and Television and the MFA in Screenwriting. These programs help writers build a portfolio, refine their voice through workshops, and connect craft to professional expectations as you develop the skills you need to land that entry-level job.
Learning to Write for Film and Television
Whether you’re revising your own script or working in a writers’ room, you’ll explore character development and story structure across various formats such as shorts, features, and episodic television. By the time you graduate, you’ll have a portfolio of scripts and experience collaborating with other emerging filmmakers.
In Chapman University’s programs, you will:
Craft Characters
Three-dimensional characters are the cornerstone of any story. Learn how to write them with depth.
Structure Stories
Master narrative structure and pacing so your scripts land key moments at the right time.
Find Your Voice
Develop a distinctive voice through consistent writing, collaboration and faculty feedback.
Share Your Creativity
Translate your ideas, experiences, and values into stories that connect with audiences, and have opportunities to see your screenplays produced by fellow classmates and screened at Dodge College.
Learn more:
- BFA in Writing for Film and Television: https://www.chapman.edu/dodge/programs/undergraduate/bfa-writing-for-film-and-television.aspx
- MFA in Screenwriting: https://www.chapman.edu/dodge/programs/graduate/mfa-screenwriting.aspx
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