Making a film means telling a story. A screenwriter expresses that story in a form that makes it clear in words what the viewer will be seeing on the screen. The concept is the same for a short film, soap opera, comedy, series, animated feature, commissioned film, commercial or feature film.

It goes without saying that you love writing if you opt for this programme. Perhaps you’re overflowing with ideas for a film, want to edit a book, or enjoy working on a commissioned screenplay.

Creative and cooperative
In order to write strong screenplays, you have to be creative and inventive. Intense curiosity and your own perspective on the world are useful qualities for convincing your audience later.

A screenplay goes beyond writing a literary work of fiction. Film is collaboration. You need to consider the budget and the preferences of the client (the broadcasting company or producer, for instance). And then there’s the director. There may be a world of difference between your first concept and the final version of the screenplay. You will have to come up with new solutions every time, at all levels (plot, structure, characters, dramatic build-up, the role of audiovisual elements). A healthy dose of independence can’t possibly hurt, since a screenwriter spends hours and hours alone behind a computer.

Screenplays are filmed during your studies, so you can see what works and what doesn’t right away, offering you a deeper understanding of the entire film-making process. You will have the opportunity to try out various narrative forms and styles and to work with different directors. Writing and researching, reading and watching, and a focus on personal development and authenticity are the cornerstones of your degree in screenwriting.

Programme details
Study load240 EC
Study length4 years, full-time
Language of instructionDutch
CROHO-code34733 (B Film and Television)
TitleBachelor of Arts (BA)
Share