Should You Earn a Screenwriting Degree?
Writing skills are valuable in most careers, like film and television. Read why you should earn a screenwriting degree and about potential film industry jobs.
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Have you ever gazed upon a TV screen and felt moved by a story? Have you ever been inspired by a character in film or television? Or perhaps had a movie or show change your day for the better?
It may have been a tear-jerking romance, an adrenaline-pumping thriller, or an uplifting comedy. Regardless of the genre, films have extraordinary power. Screenwriting professionals create scripts that are brought to life in movies and on TV screens and touch the hearts of people all over the world.
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If you are considering screenwriting programs and are wondering if a screenwriting degree is worthwhile, consider these five reasons to earn your screenwriting degree:
As in any art form, practice and experience are of extreme importance in screenwriting. Experience can help you develop from a good writer to a great one. In a screenwriting program, students can improve their writing skills to the high level expected of screenwriters. Graduates of such programs know the techniques to use to create the best final product.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that a bachelor’s degree is the typical entry-level education for writers and authors, including screenwriters.1 A BA degree will help put you on the path to success as a writer and is valued by employers as a symbol of your experience and learning.
Many jobs are available to graduates of a digital film program with an emphasis in screenwriting in addition to becoming a traditional screenwriter.
Here are some screenwriting job opportunities for graduates:
A screenwriting degree drives students to acquire new knowledge and screenwriting skills that will help them attain their career goals. Not only do these skills set up graduates for success after college but they are also influential in helping students discover their writing styles and learn to create effective scripts.
Here are some courses that students might take while earning a screenwriting degree:
A digital film and screenwriting degree strengthens skills including:
Another significant benefit of earning a screenwriting degree is the connection with peers and mentorship from professors. Not only can you form friendships with these people, but you can also learn from their writing, experiences and goals.
The professors in a screenwriting degree program are experienced in their fields and can guide students in discovering their screenwriting strengths. These professionals also know what it takes to be successful in the industry and can share their real-life experiences with students.
These mentors and peers may also serve as references or connections as you enter the film world.
One perk of a screenwriting degree is that there are multiple ways for you to earn your degree, including online, campus and evening classes.
If you are interested in the film industry and screenwriting, Grand Canyon University’s BA in Digital Film with an Emphasis in Screenwriting could be perfect for you. To learn about our other arts and media degree programs, click on the Request Info button at the top of the screen.
1Retrieved from U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Writers and Authors in July 2021
