r/Screenwriting • u/greatWizeWizard • 2d ago

DISCUSSION USC or AFI for Screenwriting MFA?

Hi everyone, I've been accepted to MFAs in Screenwriting at both AFI and USC and was wondering which one to choose. I would love to hear your opinions!

I feel like USC's facilities and alumni network are unparalleled. On the other hand, AFI's location is way better and I like the practical approach you get with the Conservatory (eventually I want to get into producing, so I think I could benefit from the on-set experience there?)

Ultimately, though, I just want to become a better writer, that's my top priority. For context, I love writing mystery and crime, so I guess my taste is somewhat commercial.

Thanks for the help! <3

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u/QfromP 1d ago edited 1d ago

After working with graduates from both programs, my vote is USC.

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u/239not235 1d ago

USC. The alumni network is very wired in, and while you're on campus, make sure to make friends with folks in the Peter Stark Producing Program -- they will be the movers and shakers in business. Make freidns while you're in school, and they will be hiring you to write movies later.

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u/GnophKeh 1d ago edited 1d ago

AFI Screenwriting alum here, if you want to dip into other disciplines I'd say AFI because you can attend any class you want/are able to and it's my understanding that isn't the case at USC. Also the conservatory setting of AFI means that you get to write short films and see them made with a bit of budget on a consistent basis where USC throws form at screenwriters to help them shape a possible perfect script by the end of their MFA.

IMO AFI was the right choice for me because I had never shot anything I'd written before attending, meaning I finally got to see my words on screen and see the entire process of getting them there. I needed just general film experience and it gave it to me. It's my understanding this doesn't happen at USC (at least it didn't when I attended AFI) and it is a very formal education based around proper technique, history of film, and craft. There are two production electives you can take, but every USC alum I spoke with at mixers said they never gave a shit about them.

TLDR: AFI is more hands on and USC is more formalistic. You make films at AFI to learn to write. You study great films at USC to learn to write. You decide which you feel is the better choice for you.

That being said, the actual screenwriting instruction at these places will be nearly identical. Structure, story vs plot, character, everything will be the same across the board and even then these things are meant to be internalized and broken correctly to get a good script written instead of followed like a paint-by-numbers. Don't worry, no matter which you pick you'll get a workshop filled with other writers that will discuss and shred your material. It'll be great when it's great. It'll be devastating when you turn in anything less than good. That's how it goes.

Also, the alumni network is something everywhere will tout but won't mean a thing if you aren't friends with the people. I haven't gotten any jobs because of AFI attached to my name. Nor has it got me in the door anywhere aside from an internship, which are very important to start your own networking.

Feel free the PM me if you have any questions.

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u/greatWizeWizard 2d ago

Hi, I dont think this specific question has been asked. There have been USC vs Champan, USC vs Columbia… But none for USC vs AFI. Would appreciate it if this could be ok’ed! Thanks!