Professional Screenwriting - Master of Fine Arts

Application Requirements and Program Prerequisites

To be considered for admission, prospective students must meet the University graduate admission requirements listed in the catalog under general information for graduate degrees. There is no separate application process for this program.

• Applicants must hold a bachelor\'s degree or higher from a regionally accredited college or university where an overall grade point average of 2.5 or better was achieved, or where a grade point average of 2.75 or higher was achieved in the last 90 quarter units
• Students with a grade point average of 2.0 to 2.49 may be admitted to the University if they have a satisfactory score on one of the following tests: GMAT, GRE, Miller Analogies Test, or an approved, standardized program-specific exam. These tests are NOT required for those with a GPA over 2.5
• Students with an undergraduate grade point average of 2.0 to 2.49 may be accepted to National University on probation (instead of taking the above tests). Students who receive a grade below "B" during their first 4.5 quarter units while on probation are disqualified and must apply to the Committee on the Application of Standards to be considered for reinstatement
• Preliminary documentation of prior education must be presented at required interview with an admissions advisor. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable
• Complete an application for admission and enrollment agreement.
• Remit a non-refundable application fee of $60
• Individual degree programs may have additional admission requirements

Students are expected to possess or have reliable access to a high- speed Internet connection including an email account outside of National University for course projects and assignments. Students need to have access to a DVD rental service or other reliable source for obtaining access to films, television shows and transmedia. Students must have personal access to a computer that meets the system requirements for viewing films and film clips online and other relevant media. The following software (at a minimum) is required: Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Internet Explorer) or comparable software capable of outputting PDF documents, and a variety of standard browser plug-ins (i.e. JavaScript, Flash, Shockwave, QuickTime, Real player etc.). Students must also have reliable access to a headset and microphone capable of supporting online course technological requirements. Students must also acquire and use approved softwares specific to the creation of film, television and transmedia scripts.

Students enrolling in the program are expected to have written and spoken proficiency in English at the graduate level. If in doubt about your English language skills please contact the faculty advisor for the program.

Program Prerequisites

The Professional Screenwriting MFA is a rigorous, graduate level program. Prior to entry it is expected that students have acquired the knowledge and skills needed to write, evaluate and engage in critical thought at the graduate level. Students who do not have such experience or skills should take appropriate courses before entering the program. It is recommended (although not absolutely required) that students have had undergraduate courses or experience in one or more of the following areas: communication, film, television, English, literary or media studies, history, philosophy, psychology or sociology or other relevant areas. For more information contact the program lead faculty advisor.