Ma In Television Fiction Writing

at Glasgow Caledonian University

There are four main strands to this masters:

Story and Script Techniques (two modules)
You will study storytelling and narrative, genre, character and voice, developing your critical and evaluative skills as well as your creative writing talents.

Writing for Existing Long-running TV Drama (two modules)
You will gain a thorough understanding of how creative and writing processes work on long-running dramas such as soap operas or medical dramas and then write your own mock storylines and scripts.

Creating Original TV Drama (two modules)
You will tackle the challenge of creating your own original drama in the context of current commissioning trends.

Researching TV Drama Markets
You will explore the terrain of the TV fiction market, the main channels (home and abroad) and commissioning policies and audiences in order to enhance their market readiness.

Module list
Story and Script Techniques (two modules); Writing for Existing Long-Running TV Drama (two modules); Creating Original TV Drama (two modules); Researching TV Drama Markets; Independent Script Project.

All entry requirements listed here should be used as a guide and represent the minimum required to be considered for entry. Applicants who are made a conditional offer of a place may be asked to achieve more than is stated.

Minimum academic requirement
UK Honours degree 2:2 or equivalent and evidence of creative writing experience.

Evidence of creative writing experience
 

• In the personal statement section of the application form, candidates must demonstrate evidence of prior interest and/or achievement in writing fiction for television and/or the general field of creative writing.
• This must be supported by samples of personal creative writing (up to three short pieces such as: short stories, scene from play or screenplay). These works do not need to have been published or performed.
• Additionally, applicants must make a clear and unequivocal statement of why they wish to pursue a career in television writing.

Interview/Test
Candidates will also be required to attend and pass an interview and test as part of the application process. The test will consist of a previously unseen scripting exercise conducted under class test conditions.

Annual full-time tuition fees
 

• Home (Scottish) and RUK: £9,000
• International: £14,500

Fees are subject to change and published here for guidance only.

With the hands-on experience offered in our MA Television Fiction Writing degree, you'll graduate uniquely prepared to launch an exciting new career in the field. GCU has built a reputation amongst employers including Warner Bros. Entertainment UK and Shed Productions for training creative and accomplished professionals who leave the TV master's degree ready to make meaningful contributions to television. You may also choose to pursue further academic work. After graduation, you will enjoy a year's association with a top London agent.