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Screenwriting Courses

Screenwriting courses can help you learn character development, plot structure, dialogue crafting, and genre conventions. You can build skills in creating compelling narratives, understanding pacing, and writing for different media formats, such as film and television. Many courses introduce tools like Final Draft and Celtx, which assist in formatting scripts and organizing ideas, while also covering techniques for pitching your screenplay and collaborating with other creatives.


Popular Screenwriting Courses and Certifications


  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    M

    Michigan State University

    Write A Feature Length Screenplay For Film Or Television

    Skills you'll gain: Storyboarding, Writing, Writing and Editing, Storytelling, Peer Review

    4.6
    Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
    ·
    301 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    M

    Michigan State University

    Script Writing: Write a Pilot Episode for a TV or Web Series (Project-Centered Course)

    Skills you'll gain: Peer Review, Storyboarding, Editing, Storytelling

    4.5
    Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
    ·
    790 reviews

    Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    W

    Wesleyan University

    Creative Writing

    Skills you'll gain: Storytelling, Peer Review, Writing and Editing, Writing, Editing, Proofreading, Storyboarding, Content Creation, Constructive Feedback, Persistence, Professionalism, Creativity

    4.6
    Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
    ·
    6.3K reviews

    Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    U

    University of Colorado Boulder

    The Art of Visual Storytelling

    Skills you'll gain: Adobe Premiere, Video Production, Videography, Post-Production, Video Editing, Storyboarding, Storytelling, Cinematography, Adobe Creative Cloud, Media Production, Editing, Writing, Graphic and Visual Design, Scripting, Multimedia, Timelines, File Management, Creativity, Quality Assurance

    4.6
    Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
    ·
    135 reviews

    Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: New
    New
    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    C

    California Institute of the Arts

    The Art of Filmmaking

    Skills you'll gain: Adobe Premiere, Peer Review, Cinematography, Video Editing, Videography, Video Production, Post-Production, Storyboarding, Photo/Video Production and Technology, Editing, Creativity, Media Production, Visual Design, Graphic and Visual Design, Design Elements And Principles, Storytelling, Creative Design, Content Creation, Graphic and Visual Design Software, Personal Development

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    16 reviews

    Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: New
    New
    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    S

    Skillshare

    Learn Cinematography

    Skills you'll gain: Cinematography, Videography, Video Production, Photo/Video Production and Technology, Photography, Post-Production, Storyboarding, Storytelling, Creativity, Podcasting, Content Creation, Image Quality, Music

    Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

What brings you to Coursera today?

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    C

    California Institute of the Arts

    The Art of Filmmaking: Composition and Moving Image

    Skills you'll gain: Peer Review, Cinematography, Videography, Video Production, Storyboarding, Photo/Video Production and Technology, Editing, Design Elements And Principles, Storytelling, Creativity

    4.9
    Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
    ·
    9 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    U

    University of Michigan

    Good with Words: Writing and Editing

    Skills you'll gain: Writing and Editing, Editing, Constructive Feedback, Concision, Writing, Organizational Skills, Proofreading, Storytelling, Productivity, Planning, Detail Oriented, Time Management, Brainstorming, Content Creation, Overcoming Obstacles, Resourcefulness, Lifelong Learning, Decision Making, Critical Thinking, Creativity

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    2.6K reviews

    Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: New
    New
    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    S

    Skillshare

    Create and Finance a Short Documentary Film

    Skills you'll gain: Cinematography, Videography, Post-Production, Video Production, Storytelling, Proposal Writing, Storyboarding, Target Audience, Presentations, Sales Presentations, Business Writing, Promotional Strategies, Marketing, Concision, Editing, Creativity, Writing, Color Matching

    Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    W

    Wesleyan University

    Creative Writing: The Craft of Plot

    Skills you'll gain: Storytelling, Writing and Editing, Storyboarding, Content Creation, Creativity

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    5K reviews

    Mixed · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    U

    University of Michigan

    Writing and Editing: Word Choice and Word Order

    Skills you'll gain: Writing, Storytelling, Editing, Detail Oriented, Resourcefulness, Decision Making, Creativity, Communication Strategies, Professionalism, Time Management

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    2K reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    B

    Berklee

    Songwriting: Writing, Arranging, and Producing Music

    Skills you'll gain: Music Theory, Musical Composition, Music, Music Performance, File Management, Instrumental Music, Storytelling, Performing Arts, Media Production, Automation, Writing, Editing, Technical Support, Creativity

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    2.1K reviews

    Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

1234…9

In summary, here are 10 of our most popular screenwriting courses

  • Write A Feature Length Screenplay For Film Or Television: Michigan State University
  • Script Writing: Write a Pilot Episode for a TV or Web Series (Project-Centered Course): Michigan State University
  • Creative Writing: Wesleyan University
  • The Art of Visual Storytelling: University of Colorado Boulder
  • The Art of Filmmaking: California Institute of the Arts
  • Learn Cinematography: Skillshare
  • The Art of Filmmaking: Composition and Moving Image : California Institute of the Arts
  • Good with Words: Writing and Editing: University of Michigan
  • Create and Finance a Short Documentary Film: Skillshare
  • Creative Writing: The Craft of Plot: Wesleyan University

Frequently Asked Questions about Screenwriting

Screenwriting is the art and craft of writing scripts for film, television, and other visual media. It involves creating compelling narratives, developing characters, and structuring scenes to engage audiences. Understanding screenwriting is crucial because it serves as the blueprint for visual storytelling, guiding directors, actors, and production teams in bringing a story to life. A well-crafted screenplay can evoke emotions, provoke thought, and entertain, making it a vital component of the entertainment industry.‎

A career in screenwriting can lead to various job opportunities within the entertainment industry. Screenwriters can work as freelance writers, script consultants, or in-house writers for production companies. They may also find roles as story editors, producers, or even directors, depending on their experience and interests. Additionally, screenwriters can explore opportunities in related fields such as video game writing, advertising, and content creation for digital platforms.‎

To succeed in screenwriting, several key skills are essential. First, strong storytelling abilities are crucial, including understanding narrative structure and character development. Additionally, proficiency in writing dialogue that feels authentic and engaging is important. Familiarity with screenplay formatting and industry standards is also necessary. Beyond technical skills, creativity, adaptability, and the ability to receive and implement feedback are vital for growth in this field.‎

There are numerous online courses available for those interested in screenwriting. Some of the best options include courses that cover the fundamentals of screenplay writing, character development, and the nuances of dialogue. Look for programs that offer practical assignments and feedback from experienced instructors. These courses can provide valuable insights and techniques to enhance your writing skills and help you develop your unique voice as a screenwriter.‎

Yes. You can start learning screenwriting on Coursera for free in two ways:

  1. Preview the first module of many screenwriting courses at no cost. This includes video lessons, readings, graded assignments, and Coursera Coach (where available).
  2. Start a 7-day free trial for Specializations or Coursera Plus. This gives you full access to all course content across eligible programs within the timeframe of your trial.

If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in screenwriting, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.‎

Learning screenwriting can be approached through various methods. Start by reading screenplays and studying films to understand different styles and techniques. Enroll in online courses that provide structured learning and practical exercises. Additionally, consider joining writing groups or workshops to share your work and receive constructive feedback. Regular practice and revision are key to developing your skills and finding your unique voice in screenwriting.‎

Screenwriting courses typically cover a range of topics essential for aspiring writers. Common subjects include the fundamentals of screenplay structure, character arcs, dialogue writing, and genre conventions. Many courses also explore the process of developing ideas into full scripts, as well as techniques for pitching and selling screenplays. Some programs may even touch on the business aspects of screenwriting, such as networking and understanding the industry landscape.‎

For training and upskilling employees in screenwriting, look for courses that focus on practical skills and industry-relevant knowledge. Programs that offer hands-on projects, peer reviews, and mentorship opportunities can be particularly beneficial. These courses can help employees enhance their storytelling abilities and adapt to the evolving demands of the entertainment industry, making them valuable assets in creative roles.‎

This FAQ content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

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