MFA Writing for the Screen
Where Your Ideas Become Innovative Screenplays
LMU School of Film and Television (SFTV) is a top-ranked film school located in the heart of Los Angeles’ media, entertainment, and technology industries. In our comprehensive 3-year, full-time MFA in Writing for the Screen, you’ll immerse yourself in the screenwriting process from day one, from first draft to final polish.
Over the course of the program, you’ll learn the fundamental elements of storytelling while crafting your own portfolio, which will include:
- Three feature-length screenplays
- One episodic teleplay
- At least one original pilot for television
Learn the Craft
Throughout the program, you’ll master the art of storytelling for the screen while honing your unique voice. You’ll take part in collaborative workshops, receive hands-on mentorship from industry-savvy, award-winning faculty, and focus on professional development, where you will:
- Pitch your ideas and rehearse your delivery and presentation
- Receive personalized feedback on your writing portfolio
- Attend exclusive guest lectures and industry workshops
- Pursue internship opportunities with top production companies
Our exclusive, annual First Pitch event is your opportunity to bring your writing into the room – and onto the radar of industry decision-makers. Over 40 agents, managers, and other film and TV professionals come to campus to hear directly from our MFA writers. You’ll pitch your ideas and share your creative vision with industry pros who can help launch your career.
Ready to write your future? Take the next step towards becoming a working screenwriter.
Let's Start a Conversation
Learning by Doing
Build confidence through hands-on production and real-world pitching sessions while creating a polished portfolio that highlights your voice, creativity, and potential. Let your talents shine, and show agents and managers you’re exactly who they’ve been looking for.
Amplify Your Voice
Your story matters, and we’ll help you tell it. Our distinguished faculty are working professionals who know what it takes to succeed in today’s industry. Through mentorship and hands-on guidance, you’ll sharpen your storytelling skills and develop your own distinctive voice that will help bring your ideas to life. You’ll learn how to navigate the creative process along with the business behind it.
Industry Access
Our acclaimed faculty and staff aren’t just professors; they’re industry insiders. From helping you land internships to introducing you to managers and agents, to advising you on entering film festivals, they’ll open doors to exciting creative opportunities. You’ll attend industry meet-and-greets, panels, and pitch events that give you direct access to the people shaping the future of film and television.
Own Your Work
You create it, you own it. For every script, short film, or pilot you create, you’ll retain full creative control and ownership of your work. As you develop your craft and voice, we’ll equip you with the creative, business, and technical skills needed to succeed. You’ll graduate with a professional portfolio that not only showcases your talent and vision but also belongs entirely to you.