Bennington College Launched New Screenwriting MFA Program
The low-residency degree combines online coursework with intensive sessions in Vermont and Los Angeles.
Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Distance Learning
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Bennington College has established a new Master of Fine Arts program focused on screenwriting. The selective course aims to cultivate original creative voices through a hybrid educational model.
Why it matters
The program seeks to empower writers through a humanistic liberal arts tradition, bridging academic study with the professional demands of the entertainment industry.
The two-year curriculum comprises 8 ten-week online courses and 4 ten-day residencies. The inaugural class is strictly capped at 6 students.
The players
Bennington College
A private liberal arts college in Vermont known for its progressive approach to higher education.
David Hemingson
A professional screenwriter and faculty member tasked with guiding students in the new program.
The details
Students are required to produce feature scripts, television episodes, an original pilot, and a series bible throughout their studies. The degree concludes with a capstone industry showcase hosted in Los Angeles.
Timeline
Bennington College announced the launch of the new MFA program on October 1, 2026.
Culture Shift
This program follows the pedagogical framework established by the Bennington College MFA in Writing. It reflects a broader trend of prestige liberal arts institutions creating specialized, low-residency vocational tracks for digital-age storytelling.
Prospective writers in Vermont gain access to a competitive professional training program without needing to relocate full-time. Students must prepare for the logistical commitment of balancing eight online courses with mandatory travel to both Vermont and Los Angeles.
The takeaway
Aspiring screenwriters should prioritize programs that offer direct access to industry showcases and mentorship. This hybrid model highlights the increasing importance of combining academic creative feedback with real-world professional networking.
Further reading
Learn more about evolving educational models in the Distance Learning section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Hollywood Reporter.
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