How to Apply to LMU SFTV’s Writing for the Screen MFA for 2025 Entry

New and seasoned screenwriters alike can hone their craft in LMU SFTV’s Writing for the Screen MFA. The acclaimed three-year program emphasizes long-form storytelling with humanistic themes and prepares students to write for film, television, the web, mobile, and every format in between. Plot development, character development, cinematic style, and storytelling structure are a few key areas of focus. By the end of the program, students complete three feature-length screenplays, one episodic teleplay, and at least one original television pilot.

In addition to enhancing their screenwriting skills, student learn the business side of the industry by interacting with producers, managers, agents, and guest speakers from the Writers Guild of America. They also participate in mentorships, internships, and workshops to network and generate new ideas.

Take a look at the year-over-year program breakdown:

Year 1​

Fall
  • SCWR 510 - Production Fundamentals for Screenwriters
  • SCWR 540 - Elements of Feature Screenwriting
  • SCWR 635 - Advanced Motion Picture Script Analysis
Spring
  • SCWR 541 - Writing the Feature Screenplay
  • SCWR 660 - Writing the Drama TV Spec Series or
    SCWR 670 - Writing the Comedy TV Spec Series
  • Film, TV, and Media Studies (FTVS) Elective

Year 2​

Fall
  • SCWR 640 - Rewriting the Feature Screenplay
  • SCWR 650 - Advanced Feature Screenwriting
  • SCWR 685 - The Business of Entertainment
Spring
  • SCWR 641 - Feature Film and Television Adaptation
  • SCWR 651 - Rewriting the Advanced Screenplay
  • SCWR 598 / 698 - Writing Elective or
    SCWR 661 - Writing an Original Drama Pilot or
    SCWR 671 - Writing an Original Comedy Pilot

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Year 3​

Fall
  • SCWR 690 -Thesis Screenplay Project
  • SCRW 661 - Writing an Original Drama Pilot or 671 Writing an Original Comedy Pilot
  • SCWR 598 698 - Writing Elective
Spring
  • SCWR 691 - Rewriting Thesis Screenplay Project
  • SCWR 692 - Feature Film and Television Portfolio Workshop

How to apply​

  1. Fill out the Graduate Division application. This is the general application for graduate students. For the complete instructions, read "LMU SFTV General Admissions Requirements for Graduates in 2024-2025."
  2. Fill out the Supplemental SFTV application. The application has several parts:
    1. Personal Statement: In 1000 words or fewer, write a creative essay or short story that expresses an understanding of how you became the writer you are today. This piece should reflect your unique perspective on life and the world.
    2. Creative Samples: Applicants to the graduate program in Writing for the Screen and Writing and Producing for Television must write:
      • Creative Challenge: Choose one of the following prompts to write a three-page screenplay in any genre (lease use proper script formatting):
        • At the beginning or end of the scene, a hand holds a knife.
        • One character has to break bad news to the other.
        • A confrontation scene in an extraordinary location.
        • A ride-sharing driver and their customer.
      • 2 writing samples:
        • One feature length screenplay or teleplay (half-hour or one-hour; spec or pilot).
        • The second sample should be the first 30 pages of a feature length screenplay or a complete teleplay (half-hour or one-hour; spec or pilot.) Alternately, you may submit a short story or a one-act play.
    3. Video Recording: Create up to a two-minute video telling us who you are and why you want to tell stories. Simply record yourself telling your story on-camera. Do not script it, nor do you need to 'perform' the event. The recording will not be viewed past the two-minute mark.
    4. Two Letters of Recommendation: Select your recommenders carefully, as this is a critical portion of your application. Each recommender must have supervised your work. Do NOT send letters from colleagues or friends. We prefer that you provide one academic letter and one professional letter, or two academic letters. You must submit the recommenders' information through the online graduate application. Recommenders will be required to submit the letters electronically. It is the applicant's responsibility to ensure the letters are received.
    5. A One-Page Resume: List your professional and creative achievements, including film industry-related grants and awards.

Ready to apply?​

Click here to fill out the application.
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