Advice on MFA programs vs. non-degree/certificate courses

[Brooklynrich]

I'm looking into screenwriting courses and wondering if anyone has any advice for me. I have a BFA in an unrelated field, and was looking at MFA Screenwriting Programs. Unfortunately, I don't have a significant writing portfolio, aside from a full length play, and a few short pieces. I also, don't have the connections for good Academic recommendations. So, I was considering a non-degree or Certificate Program. I'm looking into the New School's program and it looks pretty good. Does anyone have any information on it that they can share? Or are there other programs that you can recommend? Either in New York or CA. Is a certificate program worth the cost and time involved?

Thanks!

 

[Jayimess]

Don't count yourself out. I only had one academic LOR, and got in to three top programs with some poetry and the first act of the first script I ever wrote. You don't need experience to get into screenwriting programs/film school. Just show them you have stories to tell and the determination to follow your dreams...you may be surprised at what happens.

 

[Brooklynrich]

Thanks for the vote of confidence Jayimess. Do you mind if I ask which programs you got accepted to? The top schools I was thinking of applying to are UT Austin, USC and Chapman.

 

[taraberyl]

just want to agree with jayimess on this one. going into an MFA program with a full length play and a few short pieces under your belt will, i suspect, make you more experienced than a number of your fellow classmates. most schools don't expect you to have experience with the craft - they'll teach you all that. they are just looking for people with raw talent. And a BFA in an unrelated field is no detriment, either - most programs like to take students with a variety of backgrounds.

 

[Jayimess]

Originally posted by Brooklynrich:
Thanks for the vote of confidence Jayimess. Do you mind if I ask which programs you got accepted to?

UCLA straight up, USC and AFI off waitlist. I attend USC.