This is the course site for Advanced Television Comedy Scriptwriting.

Course Description:

Scriptwriting for television comedy programming. Developing scripts based on research, character analyses, plot analysis, and story treatments. Course will feature comedy/sitcom scripts. (Not open to students who have completed Television, Radio and Emerging Media 4173 [73], Special Topics: Advanced Television Writing: Drama.)

Prerequisite: Television, Radio and Emerging Media 2616 with a grade of B or better, or Film 1301 Screenwriting I with a grade of B or better, or permission of the chair.

Overview:

Writing a TV show is hard. Creating a TV show is harder…. Being funny.. good luck… Getting it made… How do we do it? Better question is — why do we do it?

Students will find out whether they are able to create a TV show or write an episode of a TV show. By reading scripts/chapters/articles, watching pilots, and diving into the work, we will do something incredible…. And try to be funny at the same time.

Students will learn how to create a premise, beat sheet/outline, characters, and students will write several drafts of their script.

Required Reading:

This course uses OER (Open Educational Resources) and ZTC (Zero Textbook Cost) readings. There are ZERO purchases for textbooks. All work will be available by Week 1.

Additional Requirements and Materials Needed:

• Viewings: TV – see below
  • Access to television shows via streaming for certain full-length programs.
  • There are free trials for most streaming services – make sure to cancel!
• Writing Program – Writer Duet (others are available but WD is preferred)
  • There is a FREE basic option. I have a code for 60% off if a student wants to use the Pro version, but this is optional.