Screenwriting: Theory and Practice

Undergraduate | 2026

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Area/Catalogue
MDIA 2016
Course ID icon
Course ID
200903
Level of study
Level of study
Undergraduate
Unit value icon
Unit value
6
Course level icon
Course level
2
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Inbound study abroad and exchange
Inbound study abroad and exchange
The fee you pay will depend on the number and type of courses you study.
Yes
University-wide elective icon
University-wide elective course
Yes
Single course enrollment
Single course enrolment
Yes
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Note:
Course data is interim and subject to change

Course overview

This second-year course aims to familiarise students with a wide variety of approaches to writing for screen. Students will be introduced to the formal and industry-oriented expectations of a range of genres and formats, including writing for feature films, for streaming/series, and for fine art/installation. The course works to develop students technical skills in relation to this form of writing, in addition to affording opportunities to explore different genres and formats as they work towards a portfolio of short scripts.

  • Foundations
  • Features And Form
  • Shorts And Experiments

Course learning outcomes

  • Critically analyse different modes, histories, and theories of screenwriting
  • Analyse creative, critical, and theoretical texts related to different screenwriting forms, informed by an understanding of the national and historical contexts of their production
  • Conceptualise short screenwriting projects, incorporating processes of research, drafting, and revision, and fulfil these to deadlines, aiming for a produceable standard
  • Critically assess a range of screenplays, whether produced by other writers or by students themselves
  • Describe national and international screen ecosystems and industry practices
  • Offer sensitive and insightful feedback on peer writers' work

Assessment

Peer Review, Peer Review, Essay, Creative Work