Online Class: Screenwriting 101
no certificate
with CEU Certificate*
-
17Lessons
-
31Exams &
Assignments -
1,933Students
have taken this course -
12Hours
average time -
1.2CEUs
Course Description
"Navigating the World of Screenwriting: Your Comprehensive Guide"
Stepping into the realm of screenwriting can often feel like venturing into a vast, uncharted territory. With its blend of creative artistry and technical precision, screenwriting can be as challenging as it is rewarding. Our course, "Navigating the World of Screenwriting: Your Comprehensive Guide," is designed for those budding storytellers who are passionate about crafting cinematic tales but might be unsure where to begin.
Why choose screenwriting? With the rise of streaming platforms and a growing appetite for diverse content worldwide, there's never been a better time to dive into the world of screenwriting. According to recent statistics, the global box office revenue is anticipated to reach over $50 billion by 2023. This boom in the industry offers an array of opportunities for screenwriters, both new and seasoned.
However, for those just starting, there are foundational principles to grasp. A well-structured script is paramount; without adhering to industry standards, even the most compelling stories can be overlooked. For instance, understanding the traditional three-act structure might seem rudimentary, but it's an essential framework, proven to engage audiences for decades. By mastering such basics, you enhance your chances of your screenplay getting the attention it deserves.
Our course doesn't just stop at the technicalities. While ensuring you're well-equipped with the nuts and bolts of screenplay format and structure, we delve deeper into the nuanced world of storytelling. Learn about the history of screenplays and how this art form has evolved over the years. Discover the different markets, current trends, and where emerging writers can find their niche. By understanding these aspects, you'll be in a better position to carve out a space for yourself in this competitive landscape.
Additionally, this course emphasizes the importance of integrity and sensitivity in storytelling. As a screenwriter, you wield significant power in shaping narratives and influencing audiences. Thus, it's crucial to approach topics with care and avoid unnecessary exploitation, ensuring that your stories are both impactful and respectful.
Here's a sneak peek into our curated curriculum:
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Why Get into Screenwriting and What are My Chances of Success?
- Understand the allure of screenwriting.
- Realistic expectations: success rates, challenges, and potential returns.
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A Brief History of the Screenplay
- Journey through time: from early theater scripts to modern cinematic screenplays.
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Markets, Current Trends, and Where Beginners Fit In
- Grasp the current industry landscape and find your unique spot.
... [The rest of the lessons continue as previously listed, but each will delve deeper into their respective topics, supported by case studies, real-world examples, and practical exercises.]
By the end of our 17 lessons, you'll not only have a robust foundational understanding of screenwriting but also gain insights into the professional world, from approaching agents to making your mark in Hollywood. Whether you're aiming for the big screens or finding solace in smaller projects, there's a place for every storyteller.
Remember, while winning an Oscar might be a dream for many, the journey of screenwriting offers its own set of joys – the thrill of creating characters, the satisfaction of completing a script, and the possibility of seeing your vision come alive on screen.
Join us on this comprehensive journey, and let's navigate the mesmerizing world of screenwriting together. Your story awaits!
Course Motivation
Let's define our terms: a screenwriter composes scripts that are produced as material for some kind of motion picture. Yet, some people might be satisfied with writing one short film, maybe 20 minutes long, and seeing it produced. They might even do this for free, for the simple joy of it, and never write another screen story. Another person might obsessively pursue only a full-time, life-long career as a top flight screenwriter with high pay and many big budget film credits. Or you may wish to write for TV, documentaries, corporate videos, and commercial spots. Believe it or not, you might want to write a screenplay or two just for yourself.
Here are some questions you should ask yourself, before deciding that you want to be a screenwriter:
- What is the real reason that I feel working as a screenwriter is something I want to spend time on?
- In my own view of things, what do I feel a screenwriter really does and what does the working life of a screenwriter actually involve?
- If I have the success I want as a screenwriter, what will I be doing, what rewards do I expect, and how does that success seem like it will take shape for me personally?
- If I fail as a screenwriter, will my life be destroyed and will I end up living in the gutter, homeless, or bankrupt?
- Am I really the type of person who would endure long hours at a computer keyboard alone with myself?
- Do words, thoughts, ideas, and concepts come easily for me?
- Am I fearful of a blank page or do I enjoy jumping into the abyss of the uncreated?
- Do I often finish long or demanding projects that I start?
- Do I work well with other creative people who may or may not fully appreciate my artistic efforts?
If those answers are yes, then congratulations----you really do want to be a screenwriter. You may even comprehend what you're getting into. Like any other business, your chances of success depend on a myriad of factors. Some of these you control; some you don't. It also depends on what you mean by success---or what success means to you.
No, it really doesn't, if only for the sake of the writers who won't make the cut. But remember, you can always grab a $300 mini-DV camera, some light stands, and some unemployed actors and film your own script. The cost today is lower than ever and yours may be the eye, the hand, and the mind that enlightens others.
- Completely Online
- Self-Paced
- Printable Lessons
- Full HD Video
- 6 Months to Complete
- 24/7 Availability
- Start Anytime
- PC & Mac Compatible
- Android & iOS Friendly
- Accredited CEUs
Course Lessons
Learning Outcomes
- Identify why choose screenwriting as a career and estimate the chances of success.
- Describe the history and evolution of the screenplay.
- Describe markets, current trends, and where beginners fit in.
- Summarize mastering screenplay format.
- Describe story types, genre, and targeting your script to sell.
- Describe mastering plot, story, and basic three act structure.
- Describe mastering characters and character development.
- Describe writing comedy.
- Describe writing action stories.
- Describe writing dialogue.
- Define work environment and professional standards.
- Summarize getting representation.
- Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.
Additional Course Information
- Document Your Lifelong Learning Achievements
- Earn an Official Certificate Documenting Course Hours and CEUs
- Verify Your Certificate with a Unique Serial Number Online
- View and Share Your Certificate Online or Download/Print as PDF
- Display Your Certificate on Your Resume and Promote Your Achievements Using Social Media
Choose Your Subscription Plan
No Certificate / No CEUs
This course only
Includes certificate | X |
Includes CEUs | X |
Self-paced | |
Instructor support | |
Time to complete | 6 months |
No. of courses | 1 course |
Certificate & CEUs
This course only
Includes certificate | |
Includes CEUs | |
Self-paced | |
Instructor support | |
Time to complete | 6 months |
No. of courses | 1 course |
Certificates & CEUs
Includes all 600+ courses
Includes certificate | |
Includes CEUs | |
Self-paced | |
Instructor support | |
Time to complete | 12 Months |
No. of courses | 600+ |
Certificates & CEUs
Includes all 600+ courses
Includes certificate | |
Includes CEUs | |
Self-paced | |
Instructor support | |
Time to complete | 24 Months |
No. of courses | 600+ |
Student Testimonials
- "This course was fantastic, I'm looking to convert some books and short stories I have written into screenplays. This has been incredibly informative." -- Paul H.
- "This course was indeed helpful, and I had fun doing it. Near as I can tell, Screenwriting 101 doesn't need anything at all included - it's a fantastic experience as is." -- Berenger D.
- "Great course!" -- Latina F.
- "I loved this course. it was highly informative." -- Keith J.
- "This course was extremely helpful." -- Malinda M.
- "Great, thank you, I'm so glad I took this course." -- Jacinta L.
- "I loved the course and the instructor." -- Lanna L.
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