student on her computer

Screenwriting Certificate

Program Overview

Program Overview

Unlock Your Screenwriting Potential Online.

Dive into the world of screenwriting with our graduate level Screenwriting Certificate, designed for aspiring writers who aim to master the art of storytelling within the Hollywood standard structure for film. Our program offers a comprehensive online learning experience that equips you with the skills, knowledge, and connections needed to thrive in the competitive landscape of screenwriting.

Your path to screenwriting success starts here. Embark on a journey that transforms your passion for storytelling into a career in screenwriting. With this Screenwriting Certificate, you'll not only learn how to write captivating scripts but also how to navigate the industry with confidence. Apply today and take the first step towards becoming a part of the next generation of screenwriters ready to make their mark in Hollywood. 

"From classes with dedicated professors with real-world industry experience to unique educational opportunities like the Writers Room Intensive, Lipscomb's screenwriting and television writing certificates truly prepare students for the film and television industry."

- Chris Luccy, Writer and Co-Producer, ABC’s A Million Little Things (2018-2023)
the hollywood standard screen writing book


Who Should Apply?

This program is ideal for graduate-level students, emerging screenwriters, and professionals seeking to pivot into the screenwriting industry.

Whether you're looking to refine your craft, understand the business aspects of screenwriting, or connect with a community of like-minded writers, our Screenwriting Certificate offers the resources and support to help you achieve your goals.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 




Customize Your Degree (Stackable MFA)

Certificate + Certificate + Certificate + Capstone = Stackable Master of Fine Arts

Combine this certificate with two others in creative arts sectors to craft your own Master of Fine Arts degree program. Our stackable certificates offer not only versatility but also an economical path to a prestigious qualification. Pave your way toward an MFA in Entertainment, Design & Creative Enterprise – a degree that stands as the pinnacle of achievement in the fine arts. Learn more about the MFA stackable degree.

Explore more certificate options for the MFA Stackable degree:

TV Writing Animation Foundations 2D Advanced Animation CG Advanced Animation Film/TV Business

Admissions Requirements

Admissions Requirements

* Due to high demand enrollment is limited

All applicants to the screenwriting certificate graduate program must submit the following:

  • Application Form. Each applicant must complete an application form. The application form is available at grad.lipscomb.edu/apply.
  • Application Fee. Each application should be accompanied by a $50 nonrefundable application fee.
  • Official Transcript(s). Each applicant must submit an official transcript, showing degree conferral when appropriate, from all schools attended. Official transcript(s) Undergraduate degrees with a cumulative 3.0 GPA will receive priority consideration.
  • Personal statement
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Résumé

* The admission process also includes an interview which will be scheduled through the program director. 

Courses

Courses

15:1

Faculty to student ratio

Online Flexibility, Real-Time Feedback

Our courses are offered entirely online, providing you with the flexibility to learn from anywhere in the world. Most courses meet once a week via Zoom for live sessions that are crucial for receiving personalized feedback, a core component of our teaching approach. These interactive sessions allow you to engage directly with instructors and peers, ensuring your writing not only grows in skill but in depth and impact.

Hollywood Standard Mastery

Learn the intricacies of the Hollywood standard structure for film, a crucial framework that guides successful screenplays. Our curriculum is designed to immerse you in the principles of this structure, from crafting compelling narratives to developing unforgettable characters, ensuring your scripts stand out among other storytellers.

Travel Course Options

Beyond the virtual classroom, our certificate program offers unique travel course options. These opportunities are designed to encourage networking and foster a sense of community among our writers. Travel to iconic locations for immersive workshops and seminars that provide invaluable industry insights and connections.

Collaboration and Networking

We believe that collaboration, mentoring, feedback, community, and networking skills are just as foundational as storytelling itself. Our program emphasizes these aspects, providing you with numerous opportunities to work alongside peers, connect with experienced mentors, and build a network that will support your career long after you complete the certificate.

Our Faculty

  • Melissa Forte headshot

    Melissa Forte

    Assistant Dean of Graduate Studies, George Shinn College of Entertainment and the Arts

    After six years of industry work with the Walt Disney World company in Orlando, Fla., Melissa Forte returned to Ohio University to complete an M.A. in Media Studies and an...

    Meet Melissa Forte
  • Mike Nawrocki headshot

    Mike Nawrocki

    Visiting Professor

    As co-creator of "VeggieTales," co-founder of Big Idea Entertainment and the voice of the beloved Larry the Cucumber, Mike Nawrocki has been part of the pulse of the "VeggieTales" brand,...

    Meet Mike Nawrocki
  • Tony Bancroft headshot

    Tony Bancroft

    Program Director

    Tony Bancroft is a seasoned Director, Animator, and Podcaster with over 30 years of experience in the animation industry. He's known for his work at Disney, co-directing Disney's Mulan and...

    Meet Tony Bancroft
  • Steve Taylor

    Steve Taylor

    Assistant Professor

    Steve Taylor is a filmmaker, writer, producer and recording artist who earned his "Renaissance Man" stripes (Prism Magazine) from a body of work that's garnered him multiple Grammy, Billboard, Telly,...

    Meet Steve Taylor
  • Mike Meredith headshot

    Mike Meredith

    Chair, Animation and Interactive Media Department

    Mike Meredith is a seasoned illustrator and educator with over two decades of experience in the creative industry. Currently serving as the Associate Professor and Program Chair for Animation &...

    Meet Mike Meredith
  • Diana Coco-Russell headshot

    Diana Coco-Russell

    Artist in Residence

    Diana Coco-Russell has spent most of her artistic career in animation, with her longest run at Walt Disney Feature Animation as a clean-up animator. Beginning with Beauty and the Beast...

    Meet Diana Coco-Russell
  • Eric Stars

    Eric Stars

    Visiting Professor

    With over a decade of experience working as a professional animator and visual effects artist, Eric Stars comes to Lipscomb University from Fivestone Studios. Stars' primary focus is 3D character...

    Meet Eric Stars
  • Jake Morgan headshot

    Jake Morgan

    Marketing Videography Producer

    Jake Morgan is a screenwriter living in Nashville. After graduating with an MFA in Screenwriting from Florida State University, Jake moved to Los Angeles where he worked for companies like...

    Meet Jake Morgan
  • Lori Fischer

    Lori Fischer

    Adjunct Faculty

    Lori Fischer (MFA, NYU Dramatic Writing Department) is an Independent Vision Award Nominee for Outstanding Achievement in Screenwriting for her feature film Chasing Taste. Chasing Taste was also the Feature Comedy Award...

    Meet Lori Fischer