Learn How To Write a Screenplay at NYFA
In the 15-Week Online Story and Structure Screenplay Workshop, students study the basics of feature screenwriting and feature screenplay story structure. From format and framework to how to write specific types of scenes, such as phone calls, montages and dreams, students investigate in-depth writing tools and techniques, such as screenplay structure, story, and use of subtext and exposition in dialogue.
This program is project-based and intensive, and is a great fit for aspiring screenwriters who want to strengthen their narrative storytelling skills.
This workshop has several class time options. Students must commit to one of the following three schedules (this will be the schedule time for the length of the program):
Section 1 – Tuesdays at 10 a.m. Pacific Time/1 p.m. Eastern Time
Section 2 – Tuesdays at 5 p.m. Pacific Time/8 p.m. Eastern Time
Section 3 – Wednesdays at 10 a.m. Pacific Time/1 p.m. Eastern Time
Students meet once per week for 3 hours (two 1.5-hour sessions with a 30-minute break).
Workshop DescriptionWorkshop Name: 15-Week Online Screenplay Story and Structure Workshop
During this hands-on workshop, students learn how to structure their screenplay and write a film treatment, detailing the feel and flow of a story for a feature film. They study how to generate and develop stories, finding out the answers to questions such as: Where do stories come from? How do we find them in the world around us? What is the difference between a good idea and a good story?
Students will plot a feature film idea and create a treatment that they will then break into a detailed beat sheet. Lastly, they will begin work on the script, writing the first sequence to get the feel of the script. After completing this program, many students continue their scripts by enrolling in our 15-Week Online Screenplay Workshop.
To learn more about NYFA’s screenwriting workshops, see NYFA’s Course Catalog or request more information.
This workshop has several class time options. Students must commit to one of the following three schedules (this will be the schedule time for the length of the program):
Section 1 – Tuesdays at 10 a.m. Pacific Time/1 p.m. Eastern Time
Section 2 – Tuesdays at 5 p.m. Pacific Time/8 p.m. Eastern Time
Section 3 – Wednesdays at 10 a.m. Pacific Time/1 p.m. Eastern Time
Students meet once per week for 3 hours (two 1.5-hour sessions with a 30-minute break).
At NYFA’s Screenwriting School, students complete a variety of scripts and projects. In the 15-Week Screenplay Workshop, students plot a feature film idea and create a treatment that they will then break into a detailed beat sheet. To learn more, visit our projects page.
This workshop has several class time options. Students must commit to one of the following three schedules (this will be the schedule time for the length of the program):
Section 1 – Tuesdays at 10 a.m. Pacific Time/1 p.m. Eastern Time
Section 2 – Tuesdays at 5 p.m. Pacific Time/8 p.m. Eastern Time
Section 3 – Wednesdays at 10 a.m. Pacific Time/1 p.m. Eastern Time
Students meet once per week for 3 hours (two 1.5-hour sessions with a 30-minute break).
Additional video lessons are posted online and may be viewed according to a student’s personal schedule. Outside coursework will vary in time based on the student’s writing speed but usually takes 1-4 hours per week.
This is a live, interactive workshop and students meet once a week over Zoom. Video lessons, as well as written lessons and assignments, are made available through Google Classroom. Students connect with their instructors and peers over the Google Classroom as well. In the case that time restrictions prevent or hinder attendance, students may catch up through class recordings and communicate with their class electronically. Additional video lessons are posted online and may be viewed according to a student’s personal schedule. Students should expect to spend 1-4 hours per week outside of class working on coursework. This workshop is held online, and students join virtually.
To attend, we recommend that students have a strong internet connection and have a quiet place to work. To learn more, please visit our technical specifications page. During the online workshops, students may use their preferred screenwriting software, however, they are able to obtain a discounted download code of Final Draft software from the Bursar.
Please note: Equipment, curriculum, and projects are subject to change and may vary depending on location. Students should consult the most recently published campus catalog for the most up-to-date curriculum.