13 Best Screenplay Writing Classes for Aspiring Writers

Finding the right screenplay writing classes can shape your entire creative journey, whether you’re an emerging writer, an industry pro, or part of a team pushing boundaries in film, gaming, or TV.

We break down 13 of the best options—based on teaching style, networking opportunities, and real-world outcomes—so you know exactly where to invest your time and talent to move your screenwriting goals forward.

1. Aaron Sorkin Teaches Screenwriting (MasterClass)

Start here if you want direct advice from a true Hollywood insider. Aaron Sorkin's MasterClass is a comprehensive, high-impact program packed with practical takeaways and rare behind-the-scenes knowledge.

Where this class stands out:

• Watch Sorkin break down his own scripts and reveal hard-earned lessons from The Social Network, The West Wing, and more. He shows you exactly how he builds tension, layers story, and polishes dialogue.

• Dive into 35 video lessons with hands-on assignments. You'll tackle everything from story outlines to full scenes, following a real Hollywood workflow.

• Get community feedback and download interactive workbooks. You won’t just watch videos; you put theory into action.

• Sorkin addresses industry realities—pitching, studio notes, collaborating with directors. This is job-readiness from day one.

• Learn Sorkin’s approach to rewriting, a skill that separates emerging writers from pros in the field.

If your top goal is actionable lessons from someone who’s shaped Hollywood storytelling, this class is built for you.

You grow fastest when you see, try, and immediately apply what industry pros do—not when you watch from the sidelines.

WriteSeen gives you that edge—offering secure script uploads, timestamped revisions, peer feedback, and a creative network full of writers just as driven as you. Whether you're mid-draft or ready to pitch, it's where your next breakthrough begins.

2. Shonda Rhimes Teaches Writing for Television (MasterClass)

Thinking about launching a TV writing career or building your first series? Shonda Rhimes takes you deep inside the real-world process, from shaping compelling characters to leading a writers’ room.

What Sets This Course Apart

• Rhimes walks you through original pitch materials, network bibles, and script breakdowns—from the earliest Grey’s Anatomy documents to full pilot scripts.

• She coaches you through every step in creating a standout TV show idea, explaining how to write for longevity while planning twists, reversals, and ensemble dynamics.

• Demystifies pitching, staffing, and industry relationships—skills essential for getting your story past studio gates.

• Specific strategies for running a diverse, high-performance writers’ room set you up for showrunner-level thinking.

• Exercises let you build a series concept, draft a bible, and start your pilot, mirroring real industry tasks.

Writers serious about TV gain a playbook for pitching, building, and sustaining gripping series.

3. University of East Anglia – An Introduction to Screenwriting (FutureLearn)

Jumpstart your journey with a respected UK creative writing department. This course takes new screenwriters from nervous to knowledgeable in just six hours—no film school needed.

Why it’s great for beginners:

• Everything is designed for clarity: core theory, story structure, character work, and the basics of visual storytelling broken down step-by-step.

• You’ll work through script samples, quizzes, and interactive forums. This isn’t passive learning—it’s hands-on.

• Supported by BBC Writers Room and led by award-winning faculty, this course gets updated with current trends in TV and film festivals.

• Learners use real short film scripts as models, then build and polish their own.

• Provides a foundation for advancing to higher-level industry programs after you finish.

If you’re looking to figure out story structure, format, and get real with professional standards, this course unlocks your next level.

4. Young Screenwriters – Writing the Feature

Ready to turn your blank page into a complete screenplay? Young Screenwriters’ 10-week intensive is a proven roadmap to get you there, fast.

What this hands-on course delivers:

• Live Zoom workshops each week let you workshop scenes, ask questions, and get feedback in real time.

• Taught by a veteran NYU Tisch professor who moves you from concept to market-ready script with weekly accountability.

• Your work gets peer and mentor eyes—ensuring you don’t stall or second-guess. The process includes advanced story beats, genre strategies, and real script breakdowns.

• Past students have finished optioned or produced scripts within months of starting.

• Bonus: Industry guests appear for extra feedback and practical insights.

This is ideal if discipline, process, and direct feedback are what you’re missing.

5. Beginning Screenwriting Made Easy (Udemy)

If you want to nail the basics at your own speed without breaking the bank, this Udemy course is built for real beginners or writers jumping from prose to script.

Here’s why it’s so useful:

• It’s packed with clear templates, checklists, and scene construction lessons—everything to take you from blank software to a useable screenplay.

• Track your progress and use downloadable guides to keep your workflow organized.

• Join a global forum for rapid peer feedback, so you never write in isolation or repeat classic beginner mistakes.

• Updated regularly to match the newest script formatting and market rules.

• Actionable, digestible advice keeps you moving—no fluff or filler.

Writers who want affordable, low-pressure, and no-nonsense instruction love this approach.

6. Script Hackr: Online Screenwriting Course (Script Reader Pro)

Some classes are all theory. Script Hackr is not. This is an actionable, practical series focused on doing, fixing, and finishing scripts swiftly.

Best features for busy, ambitious screenwriters:

• Seven interactive modules walk you from raw idea to final draft, crushing common story problems with proven tactics.

• Get direct feedback from script consultants—and sample coverage reports used by real producers.

• Deep-dive case studies show you exactly how professional writers repair and elevate scripts.

• Complete with master templates for formatting and story mapping. This is hands-on mastery, not guesswork.

• A private writers’ group keeps you connected, supported, and accountable.

If you learn best by writing, reviewing, and revising with concrete industry input, you’ll thrive here.

On WriteSeen, you can upload scenes, get timestamped feedback, and collaborate with screenwriters, producers, and mentors all focused on elevating the craft—together.

7. UCLA Extension – Professional Program in Screenwriting

Looking for a practical, portfolio-focused training that feels close to an MFA—without the price or years lost? UCLA Extension puts you in the room (virtually or onsite) with established screenwriters who’ve done the work.

Why serious screenwriters sign up:

• Complete at least two polished feature scripts, ready to show industry contacts at the end.

• Tackle both film and TV scripting to round out your portfolio and boost marketability.

• Attend exclusive pitch fests and script showcases where real producers listen and talent scouts take notes.

• One-on-one guidance and live workshops fuel your progress. Guest lectures from Oscar and Emmy winners open your perspective.

• Lifetime access to industry network and alumni forums creates long-term value.

Writers targeting top script competitions, studio jobs, or agency meetings gravitate to this results-driven option.

8. Nashville Film Institute – Screenwriting Course

Want real production experience, not just theory? Nashville Film Institute offers an immersive diploma or degree that places your script at the heart of filmmaking.

How this program accelerates your growth:

• Team up with directing and production students to simulate true writers’ room and film set conditions.

• Professional mentors work with you through pitching, revising, and production rewrites. You improve fast with in-the-moment feedback.

• On-campus showcases and events judged by producers and agents put your work in front of actual decision makers.

• Alumni have gone on to contribute to award-winning indie films and top TV shows.

• Career advising and job placement assistance post-graduation help launch your paid writing journey.

If gaining on-set collaborations, festival credits, and a clear professional trajectory is your goal, this is your kind of training.

9. Toronto Film School – Writing for Film & TV Diploma Program

This intensive, 18-month diploma program is designed for writers who want to get industry-ready without years of wait or theory-heavy detours. You’ll find a practical curriculum and a pipeline to Canada’s media landscape.

Why it’s a top pick for emerging screenwriters:

• Courses led by working screenwriters and producers give you access to real industry knowledge and trends.

• Build a diverse portfolio while pitching scripts, learning copyright essentials, and working inside real studio spaces.

• Networking events and annual festivals connect you to Canada’s largest production companies.

• Workshops and guest lectures deliver actionable, career-focused tips.

• Alumni land jobs, internships, and professional credits before graduation.

Writers looking for a results-focused, studio-connected path into film or TV production get fast, comprehensive support here.

10. Screenwriting Master Class with Tom Benedek and Scott Myers

If you want personalized guidance and deep craft mentorship, this master class puts you face-to-face with award-winning writers. Their direct approach gets you unstuck and pushes you toward breakthrough progress.

What to expect:

• Receive in-depth script notes, scene reviews, and feedback—not just general advice.

• Live Q&A and workshops let you work through advanced projects for features or pilots.

• Strategy for breaking into the business via competitions, festivals, and smart submissions.

• Ongoing alumni groups support collaboration and challenge you to keep improving.

• Specialized genre modules give you targeted skill-building.

Best for writers counting on expert mentorship to reach the next rung.

Consistent, detailed feedback from professionals is the single fastest way to sharpen your scripts for the market.

11. Gotham Writers Workshop – Screenwriting Workshop

For community-minded screenwriters, Gotham is an institution. Their craft-focused classes mix expert instruction, peer critique, and structured revision to help you produce market-ready work.

Key benefits for your writing:

• Classes from beginner to advanced, so you can keep progressing as you grow.

• Submit scripts to internal competitions and public readings that get your work noticed.

• Access active instructor network and extensive alumni system.

• Learn to format, revise, and market screenplays with clear, actionable support.

• Members-only events and panels to network and stay updated on trends.

Writers needing structure, camaraderie, and direct instructor attention find balance here.

12. Sundance Collab – Screenwriting Courses and Masterclasses

Sundance is a magnet for bold, independent writers aiming to innovate and break into festivals. Its screenwriting lab offers direct access to professional mentors and real exposure opportunities.

What makes it a launching pad:

• Participate in selective multi-week deep dives or one-off masterclasses.

• Unlock script labs, fellowships, and pitch sessions—doors open to festival exposure.

• Independent storytelling and fresh voices are championed.

• Scripts reviewed by actual festival programmers and filmmakers.

• Alumni gain festival placements and career development deals.

Writers wanting to accelerate entry into the indie circuit and grow their network lean in here.

13. Inspirational Screenwriting (Udemy)

Sometimes you need inspiration and discipline, not just craft lessons. This Udemy course focuses on unlocking creativity, building strong writing habits, and delivering scripts that make readers care.

What’s inside:

• Assignments sculpt your storytelling voice and emotional connection—real results for authentic writing.

• Systems for overcoming blocks and ramping up daily output.

• Access to a supportive peer review forum keeps you accountable.

• Visual and outlining exercises help spark and sustain ideas.

• Many alumni credit this course for restarting projects and boosting energy.

Take this route if motivation and unlocking your process matter as much as structure.

What to Look for When Choosing Screenplay Writing Classes

You need classes that truly fit your path, learning style, and bold ambitions. The landscape is packed with options—here’s how to spot what works:

Analyze These Core Elements:

• Instructors with produced credits or direct industry ties typically offer lessons you won’t find in books.

• Decide: hands-on workshop, deep theory, or fast portfolio building? Pick the vibe that ignites your learning.

• Prioritize classes with networking—feedback from pros, access to pitch events, or alumni placement stats matter.

• Consider cost, time, and flexibility. Online suits hectic lives; in-person can accelerate deep relationships.

• Groups and peer review accelerate growth. Consistent, specific feedback wins.

• Scan the syllabus: story mechanics, dialogue, real-world industry advice, and career-focused tips should stand out.

Where you learn shapes how far—and how fast—you go.

Frequently Asked Questions About Screenplay Writing Classes

Every screenwriter comes with burning questions. We hear these the most:

• Are online classes as good as live programs? Yes, if you get feedback, apply lessons, and stay active.

• How long until I’m ready for the industry? With structure and real-time critique, you can jump several stages in a matter of months.

• Do I need a degree? A strong script trumps a diploma. Courses can open doors, but your portfolio gets you hired.

• Who owns my script after class? Most top programs let you keep total ownership. Always double-check.

Supporting growth with clear resources, peer insights, and community connections amplifies your learning beyond the basics.

Essential Skills and Mindsets for Aspiring Screenwriters

What separates talented writers from produced, pro-level screenwriters? Consistent habits, smart networking, and relentless revision.

Gamechanger Skills:

• Write and revise daily, even if it’s a single scene.

• Accept and apply feedback from peers, mentors, and the market.

• Understand current trends—genre, format, pitching, and production realities matter.

• Build connections and stay active in creative communities like WriteSeen, where peer reviews, pro feedback, and a secure, distraction-free environment let your creativity thrive.

• Stay resilient: every produced film or show started with many rejected drafts or ideas.

Focused improvement and the right support make your writing career not just possible—but inevitable.

Conclusion

You don’t need to go it alone. The right screenplay writing classes offer more than instruction—they offer momentum. Whether you're new to the craft or deep into your career, these programs give you structure, real-world feedback, and creative clarity.

From Hollywood veterans to emerging indie voices, writers at every level benefit from expert-led lessons, peer critique, and access to industry-facing opportunities. Progress isn’t about talent alone—it’s about community, support, and staying sharp.

Join WriteSeen to share your scripts in a secure, timestamped space, get real-time feedback from fellow writers, and grow your screenwriting journey inside a global creative network built for progress.