Screenwriting for Television Short Course

About this course

The course examines how television drama is developed, from an initial premise through to pitch and production. Participants explore character creation, theme, story structure, action, dialogue, tone and techniques for engaging audiences early in a script. Teaching combines lectures, group discussion, case studies and practical exercises. Weekly writing assignments provide opportunities to apply the material and receive feedback, with attention also given to television formats including series, serials and singles.

What you'll learn

• Develop characters, premises and themes for television drama
• Apply principles of television story structure
• Use action, dialogue and tone in screenwriting
• Examine techniques for engaging an audience in the opening pages
• Distinguish between series, serial and single television formats
• Relate the writing process to television development from pitching to production

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for beginners interested in writing television drama. Participants should be prepared to develop, rewrite and rework their ideas, and to contribute to a collaborative class environment involving discussion and feedback.

• Suitable for learners starting to explore television drama writing
• Includes regular writing assignments and feedback
• Requires willingness to revise ideas repeatedly
• Involves group discussion and collaborative participation