Screenwriting

This degree programme is for students who have a devotion to writing for film and television. It covers all the phases of screenwriting process. The programme is hands-on and workshop oriented. Classes are based on student’s own material as a work-in-progress. Reflective and critical approach is practiced throughout the programme. Understanding audience psychology in relation to the film viewing experience is emphasised. Professional mentors supervise periods of independent work and you will complete one feature length film script or a concept for tv-series and a script of at least two episodes during your studies.

The language of the degree programme is English.

You will be supported to work alongside your studies by using an online environment and distance learning practices. A virtual learning environment is used, where supplementary material will be provided.

The degree carries a tuition fee of EUR 10 800 / academic year for non-EU/EEA students. Applicants must submit relevant documentation together with their application. If you are unsure about whether you'd be subject to tuition fees, check the 'Am I required to pay tuition fees?' section on the Studyinfo.fi application site.

Scholarships

Early bird waiver: If the first academic year is paid in full before 31 May, the amount is reduced by -1 500 eur (total to be paid 9 300 eur)

Academic award waiver: If the student completes 60 cr in the first year = 50% reduction is given for the remaining study time (excluding overtime, which carries a separate fee). If the student completes 45 cr in the first year = 25% reduction is given for the remaining study time (excluding overtime, which carries a separate fee).

Academic excellence scholarship: At the time of graduation, students may be eligible for significant Academic Excellence scholarships. These scholarships are governed by the TAMK's R&D Fund. They can be based on final thesis quality, excellence in project work, exceptional practical training success or other grounds set by the Fund.

The studies can be completed within one year alongside work as blended learning. The extent of the programme is 60 ETCS credits, consisting of professional studies (30 credits) and Master's thesis (30 credits).

For the professional studies, there are two modules: 1. Forms and Genres 2. Storytelling and the Moving Image. The first module gives a hands-on introduction to storytelling tradition. It covers ideating, conceptualising, pitching, outlining and step-outlining story as well as developing character arch and making use of turning points, understanding screenplay structure composed of acts, sequences and scenes and using film and screenplay analysis as screenwriter's tool.

In the module Storytelling and the Moving Image, you will complete one feature length film script or a concept for tv-series and a script of at least two episodes. Writing memorable scenes with strong characters, describing essential action and writing dialogue as action of character, making use of subtext and understanding the deep structure of theme and metaphor as well as the use of visual arena and telling details are the key elements in this module.

The MA Script Project involves structured and supervised development of a full-length film script text (the minimum length is 90 minutes) or creating a concept for tv-series and a script of at least two episodes. The aim of the module is learning to edit one's own text, rewriting and script-editing, making use of the feedback given and collaborative process with the mentor at each step of the script development process. There will also be a workshop to apply critical analysis and evaluation of the progressive development of the script. We are working actively towards bringing this MA Script Project up to an artistic and commercial standard that will allow it to compete in the European market.

Links to the global film and TV industry provide opportunities to network with key people and to have feedback on your work; to learn the demands the industry makes on writers; to be at the cutting edge of changes and developments in the industry; and to develop mentoring relationships that may persist beyond the programme.

Besides writing for the film or television industry, you may build a career in other satellite professions such as producer, script editor, storyliner, and script consultant.

The whole degree programme is an inspiring and multicultural learning environment. Other means of guaranteeing a truly international and multicultural study experience are to immerse yourself in language studies, peer tutoring for other international students, friend-family activities and international projects and themed weeks.

Industry links form a significant component of the programme. Besides having connections with film and TV companies, the programme has strong ties with international associations like Cilect, Geect and Nordicil. It is also actively involved in Film Festivals and events all over Europe.

TAMK's Master's degree certificate offers you the possibility to apply for doctoral studies in other universities according to their admission policy.

Academic analyses of the process of scriptwriting are now acknowledged as a field of academic enquiry. Other possibilities include PhDs in the field of the television and radio industry and/or cultural history.