The Dramatic Writing Program

Writers are made, not born. CMU’s School of Drama offers graduate playwrights and screenwriters the opportunity to hone their craft.

Writers are progressively challenged through a system of writing (including collaborative workshops with actors and directors), readings, and workshop productions. In addition, dramatic writing students receive concentrated coursework in acting, directing, and the history of dramatic literature.

During the second year, playwrights and screenwriters focus on their individual tracks, culminating in the development of their thesis projects. All thesis projects are developed under the guidance of established mentor writers in each field.

Applicants who are selected as finalists for an MFA in Dramatic Writing are invited to campus to sit in on classes, meet current students and to have an interview with the Coordinator of Dramatic Writing. Applicants who cannot come to campus are interviewed by telephone.

Dramatic Writing applicants must submit either one full length play or one full length screenplay in addition to all university and school applications.

Questions? Contact Coordinator of Dramatic Writing Program


Rob Handel

Office Phone: (412) 268-2398
E-mail: rhandel@andrew.cmu.edu

Questions about the School of Drama's undergraduate program, or admissions?

Questions about the School of Drama's graduate program, or admissions?