What major is recommended for someone considering a career as a screenwriter?

Question

I have a large mindset on going to med school, as medicine and health fascinate me. However, I have also began considering a career as a screenwriter (probably for Soaps) or broadcast journalist. I know; they are at completely different ends of the spectrum. But- I am a little confused as to what education is recommended for screenwriters and if there are a lot of people heading into that area of creative writing. Thanks!

Answer 1

First, talk to your counselor. You might consider majoring in medicine and having a minor in film or creative writing. For many students interested in arts, sports and what some consider unstable career choices, that's the popular road. I'm doing the same, majoring in psychology and minoring in performance art (and I write on the side too).

As far as classes, you probably should start in a film and theatre appreciation class. Taking actual drama classes would probably help out a lot too, whether it's required or not. Definitely a creative writing class and if they have one, a writing class particular to screenwriting. Basically surround yourself with classes that keep you watching and observing. Just like how novelists read a lot to keep their writing gears working, screenwriters are always watching movies to keep the same juices flowing. Depending on what particular kind of films or shows you'd want to be working on, you might take classes in those directions too if applicable.  

Answer 2

If the school itself does not have screenwriting then you would mostly likely be better off doing English with maybe a creative writing concentration, most schools have that but you definetely need to take English as a major with maybe a minor in theatre.

Answer 3

The last I heard, the College of Santa Fe (NM) offered a 3-part major in Creative Writing & one of them was Screenwriting.  The state is getting tons of money to produce movies there so that should be an incentive.  I know the school has an Independent Film week every year so students can showcase their work.

I'd always heard, however, that USC was the place to go for this field. There are a lot of famous alumni from there.

Answer 4

creative writing and cinematography/videography (film studies)