University of Portsmouth United Kingdom

Screenwriting BA (Hons)

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 3 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

Develop your unique voice and master the craft of screenwriting with the BA (Hons) Screenwriting degree at the University of Portsmouth. This programme is designed for aspiring writers who are passionate about storytelling for film and television, and who want to understand the intricate relationship between narrative, character, and visual media. You will explore foundational concepts in film craft, screen debates, and the ethical considerations of creative production, preparing you to contribute compelling narratives to the dynamic screen industries. This undergraduate degree provides a robust grounding in both theoretical analysis and practical application.

You will study this course full-time on campus over three years, immersing yourself in modules like "Writing for the Film and TV Industries," "Screenwriting," and "Advanced Screenwriting." Through hands-on projects, you will learn to structure compelling stories, develop memorable characters, and pitch your ideas effectively. The curriculum includes opportunities to explore British, world, and transnational cinema, and you can tailor your studies with optional modules ranging from crime writing to film and ethics. You will graduate with a portfolio of work and the professional skills necessary for careers as a screenwriter, script editor, or in related fields within the creative industries.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BA (Hons) in Screenwriting provides a comprehensive foundation in film craft, screenwriting techniques, and industry practices across three years of study. You will explore various cinematic forms, from true stories to British and world cinema, while developing essential skills in writing for film and television. The program also offers opportunities for professional development, industry exchange, and specialized writing projects, culminating in advanced screenwriting and dissertation options.

1 Year 1

Film Craft Compulsory
Future Production Compulsory
Screen Debates Compulsory
Tips, Tricks, Techniques Compulsory
True Stories Compulsory
Writing for the Film and TV Industries Compulsory

2 Year 2

British Cinema Compulsory
Screenwriting Compulsory
Fiction Film-Making Compulsory
World and Transnational Cinema Compulsory

3 Optional modules

Film, Media and Communication Study Exchange Optional
Crime Writing Optional
Finding Form - Fiction Optional
Creative Writing and Critical Thinking Optional
Engaged Citizenship Through Interdisciplinary Practice Optional
Film and Ethics Optional
Professional Experience Optional
Student Enterprise Optional

4 Year 3

Professional Industry Skills Compulsory
Self Promotion Compulsory

5 Optional modules

Creative Writing Dissertation Optional
Film and Media Dissertation Optional
Advanced Screenwriting Optional
Gender, Sexuality and Cinema Optional
Media Fan Cultures Optional
Writing Project (With Publishing) Optional

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,195.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,195.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,195.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 72,586.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 912.00 - USD 2,400.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,028.00
Transport USD 645.00 - USD 1,289.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 1,934.00
Estimated Total USD 4,190.00 - USD 7,251.00

Living cost estimates are based on Portsmouth Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

94%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Client Services & Account ManagementDevOps & Site Reliability EngineeringDigital MarketingEnvironmental & Sustainability ConsultingFilm & Television ProductionForestry & LoggingJournalism & ReportingMedia Research & AnalyticsPublic Broadcasting & DocumentarySupply Chain & Commodity Trading

Top Employers Hiring for this course

British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)

National Farmers'​ Union

Preply

Sky Group

University of Portsmouth

Why Study Screenwriting BA (Hons) at University of Portsmouth

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Portsmouth in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Screenwriting BA (Hons) at University of Portsmouth

Can I work while studying?

As an international student on a degree course, you may work up to 20 hours per week during the term and full-time during breaks. You do not need a separate work permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To enroll, you need to meet the English language requirements, such as a TOEFL overall score of 91 or an IELTS overall score of 6.5. Ensure your individual section scores also meet the minimum thresholds.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as screenwriters, script editors, researchers, producers, or showrunners.

What will I actually study in this course?

The BA (Hons) Screenwriting course focuses on scriptwriting and the interconnection of screenwriting with filmmaking. You will study theories, genres, and gain practical production skills.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Screenwriting BA (Hons) program has an intake month in September. Make sure to apply before the deadline to secure your spot.
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