Writing for Television

TV writers know how to effectively collaborate and produce creative work within the strict guidelines of the medium. Even though the way people watch TV is changing, many of the writing processes still remain the same. In Writing for Film & Television, you're exposed to the full scope of TV writing, from original pilots and episodic specs to an elective course in animation and even a two-part course in Pilot Production. You'll also gain an understanding of the history of TV genres and how they inform series produced today.

TV Spec

A TV spec is a sample script for a TV show currently on the air that a writer uses as a calling card to showcase their talents to a producer or literary agent. A good TV spec exhibits an understanding of form and structure, as well as a particular series' characters and tone. In this two-part course you'll pitch, outline, write, and rewrite a script for an existing half-hour or one-hour TV show.

Original Pilots

Creating an original TV series pilot from the ground up is a massive task, but this writing sample can open many doors for an emerging writer. For those who choose to pursue the TV stream, you will develop a series bible that outlines your show from concept to characters to sample episodes.

Final Project

In the TV stream, you focus specifically on deepening your portfolio with a second spec episode for an existing series, which is workshopped in a smaller group with a dedicated instructor.

Production Highlight: Pilot Production

Should you choose the TV stream, you will have an opportunity to collaborate in writing teams to pitch, develop, and produce a pilot series under the guidance of faculty mentors – as well as a chance to have an episode you wrote produced.

Make sure to check out more What You Will Learn highlights in Writing for Film & Television:

Story

Form the heart of your storytelling skills through lessons in story structure, character, dialogue, and style. more

Writing for Film

Workshop your screenplays, study produced successes, and discover the impact of effective rewriting. more

Beyond Film and Television

Gain additional skills to strengthen and broaden your portfolio, from sketch comedy to writing for games and comic books. more

The Business

Learn to navigate the film and television industry with proven strategies for launching your career. more