Introduction to Screenwriting
Online Short Course
The path to screenwriting success; learn where to find stories, make a strong narrative, write memorable characters and an industry standard script.
R7 500.00
COURSE FEES
8
MODULES
8 weeks
DURATION
Anytime
REGISTRATION
Payment options available to you
Summary
Welcome to our Introduction to Screenwriting Online Short Course! The course is designed to take the beginner through a gentle but rigorous eight weeks of screenwriting theory and practice to move you from zero to hero. The outcome of the course is a 3 to 10-page short film script in an industry professional format. Learn to write for a production team. Learn to find captivating stories. Create memorable characters. Find out about what career options are out there for screenwriters. And finally, learn how to package your idea, and any others you might have in an industry-standard treatment package. Armed with this information will give you an edge over any other writers entering the film industry.
Module Outline
- MODULE 0
Orientation Module - MODULE 1
Finding Stories - MODULE 2
The World of Short Story Narratives - MODULE 3
Characters - MODULE 4
Script Formatting - MODULE 5
Writing the Scene, Writing the Script - MODULE 6
Re-Writing - MODULE 7
Wrap-up
Subject Matter Expert

Matthew Kalil’s work is marked by a deep understanding and inspired use of narrative, collaboration and subtext to distil sensitive performances and create meaningful cinema. He has an MA in Screenwriting from the NSFTV in the UK and over 20 years of experience in directing, editing and writing. His projects and collaborations have been seen in Canada, Denmark, Morocco, New Zealand, Puerto Rico, Kenya, Thailand, the United States, United Kingdom, to name a few, and throughout South Africa. He has taught at various institutions over the last 20 years.
Tutor Support
With the freedom that online education brings, CityVarsity Online students can upskill in their own time, from almost anywhere on earth. Well, anywhere where the internet is accessible, that is. But although our students may roam far and wide, they are never far out of our minds.
Each course is assigned its own Online Academic Tutor, who is ready and waiting to guide and assist their learners throughout their learning experience. The Online Academic Tutor, who is assigned to your course, is trained to build each student up to reach their fullest potential. Students can expect their Online Academic Tutor to answer questions, offer advice and provide further clarification on any academic aspects.
Course and Technical Requirements
In order to get the full benefit from this course, you require the following:
- Computer/Laptop/Tablet
- Stable internet connection
- Firefox/Microsoft Edge/Chrome web browser (latest version)
- Adobe Acrobat, or similar PDF viewer
- Microsoft Word/Pages (ability to export documents as PDF files)
- Email/Cell phone for notifications and communication
- Ability to scan and upload documents
How you will learn
- Online Learning Studio
- Module Notes
- Videos
- External URLs
- Quizzes
- Assignments
- Feedback
- Forum Discussions
- Academic Support
This course is presented through an interactive learning platform – our Online Learning Studio. You are encouraged to refer to external URLs for a broader understanding and complete the quizzes in order to test your own grasp of each module. Feedback on your assignments will deepen your learning experience, and your participation in the discussion forum with your fellow students brings the classroom into your space.
Certification
Upon successful completion of your course, you will be awarded a CityVarsity Online certificate.