Online Class: Screenwriting 101

This is a basic, nuts-and-bolts course, for people who wish to write screenplays, but don't know much about it.

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$120.00
with CEU Certificate*
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$120.00 (with CEU Certificate)
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  • 17
    Lessons
  • 31
    Exams &
    Assignments
  • 1,944
    Students
    have taken this course
  • 12
    Hours
    average time
  • 1.2
    CEUs
 
 
 

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:

  1. Why Get into Screenwriting and What are My Chances of Success?

    • Understand the allure of screenwriting.
    • Realistic expectations: success rates, challenges, and potential returns.
  2. A Brief History of the Screenplay

    • Journey through time: from early theater scripts to modern cinematic screenplays.
  3. 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!

  • 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
Universal Class is an IACET Accredited Provider
 
 

Course Lessons

Average Lesson Rating:
4.61 / 5 Stars (Average Rating)
"Extraordinarily Helpful"
(2,381 votes)

Lesson 1: Why Get into Screenwriting and What are My Chances of Success?

41 Points
This lesson describes the different kinds of screenwriting opportunities, types of jobs, and motivation factors.
  • Lesson 1 Video
  • Lesson discussions: Screenwriting; Reasons for Taking this Course
  • Complete Assignment: Introduction
  • Complete: Lesson 1 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 1 Review

Lesson 2: A Brief History of the Screenplay

40 Points
This lesson explains how screenplays have evolved.
  • Lesson 2 Video
  • Complete: Lesson 2 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 2 Review

Lesson 3: Markets, Current Trends, and Where Beginners Fit In

39 Points
This lesson gives basic guidelines for beginner screenwriters. Additional lesson topics: Screenwriting Resources
  • Lesson 3 Video
  • Complete: Lesson 3 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 3 Review

Lesson 4: Getting Started: Mastering Screenplay Format

39 Points
This lesson describes how to format a feature film script. Additional lesson topics: Dialogue Writing Tips
  • Lesson 4 Video
  • Complete: Lesson 4 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 4 Review

Lesson 5: Story Types, Genre, and Targeting Your Script to Sell

15 Points
This lesson deals with the different types of scripts that film producers are looking for. Additional lesson topics: Marketing a Screenplay; Movie Genres Examples
  • Lesson 5 Video
  • Lesson discussions: Genre
  • Assessment: Lesson 5 Review

Lesson 6: Mastering Plot, Story, and Basic Three Act Structure

40 Points
This lesson describes the Three Act Structure and the plot of the story. Additional lesson topics: Poetics
  • Lesson 6 Video
  • Complete: Lesson 6 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 6 Review

Lesson 7: Mastering Characters and Character Development

39 Points
This lesson describes how to take your experiences in life and develop characters for your scripts. Additional lesson topics: Creating Characters
  • Lesson 7 Video
  • Complete: Lesson 7 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 7 Review

Lesson 8: Writing Comedy

39 Points
This lesson describes how to effectively write comedy. Additional lesson topics: The Seven Laws of Comedy Writing
  • Lesson 8 Video
  • Complete: Lesson 8 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 8 Review

Lesson 9: How High is High Concept?

40 Points
This lesson deals with the issue of writing an original piece versus a storyline that has been done before.
  • Lesson 9 Video
  • Complete: Lesson 9 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 9 Review

Lesson 10: Writing Action Stories

15 Points
This lesson describes how to write action stories using super heroes, great chases, and tension building scenes.
  • Lesson 10 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 10 Review

Lesson 11: Writing Dialogue

40 Points
This lesson gives some tips on writing good dialogue.
  • Lesson 11 Video
  • Complete: Lesson 11 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 11 Review

Lesson 12: Breaking Down the Barriers

39 Points
This lesson deals with how to get film credits and sell your scripts.
  • Lesson 12 Video
  • Lesson discussions: Credits
  • Complete: Lesson 12 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 12 Review

Lesson 13: Work Environment and Professional Standards

15 Points
The lesson addresses the idea that where you work effects how you work.
  • Lesson 13 Video
  • Lesson discussions: Work Space
  • Assessment: Lesson 13 Review

Lesson 14: Submissions, Queries, and Loglines.

39 Points
This lesson offers some pointers on how to get your material noticed.
  • Lesson 14 Video
  • Lesson discussions: Queries
  • Complete: Lesson 14 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 14 Review

Lesson 15: Getting Representation

40 Points
This lesson deals with writer's resources, for-hire jobs, and getting representation. Additional lesson topics: How to sell your movie ideas to Hollywood
  • Lesson 15 Video
  • Complete: Lesson 15 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 15 Review

Lesson 16: Welcome to Hollywood

15 Points
This lesson deals with problems you don't want to encounter in Hollywood.
  • Lesson 16 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 16 Review

Lesson 17: Documentaries, Video Scripts and Other Types

40 Points
This lesson offers some of the choices available for screenwriters. Additional lesson topics: Documentary Screenwriting
  • Lesson 17 Video
  • Lesson discussions: Let us know what you think of this course; Course Comments; Program Evaluation Follow-up Survey (End of Course)
  • Complete: Lesson 17 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 17 Review
575
Total Course Points
 

Learning Outcomes

By successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
  • 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

Online CEU Certificate
  • 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
Document Your CEUs on Your Resume
 
Course Title: Screenwriting 101
Course Number: 9770545
Lessons Rating: 4.61 / 5 Stars (2,381 votes)
Languages: English - United States, Canada and other English speaking countries
Availability: Accessible from any state in the U.S., this course covers key areas such as California, Texas, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Ohio, and Georgia. The course is also offered in English-speaking nations like Australia, Canada, the UK, and South Africa.
Last Updated: June 2024
Course Type: Self-Paced, Online Class
CEU Value: 1.2 IACET CEUs (Continuing Education Units)
CE Accreditation: Universal Class, Inc. has been accredited as an Authorized Provider by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET).
Grading Policy: Earn a final grade of 70% or higher to receive an online/downloadable CEU Certification documenting CEUs earned.
Assessment Method: Lesson assignments and review exams
Instructor: Dana Kristan
Syllabus: View Syllabus
Course Fee: $120.00 U.S. dollars

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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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