a
M
M
Apply Now
M

Follow Us

Vertical Storytelling & Online Content Lab

6 weeks

Format: Online Learning + On-Campus Production Intensive
Credential: AFDA Micro-Credential (Credit eligible via CAT/RPL pathways)

Create stories for the world’s most powerful screen — the phone.

From TikTok to Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts, vertical storytelling has become the dominant format of global digital culture. Brands, creators, filmmakers and actors are all producing short-form narrative content designed for mobile-first audiences.

The AFDA Vertical Storytelling & Online Drama Lab gives aspiring creators the opportunity to develop, produce and premiere their own vertical drama project in just six weeks.

This dynamic short course combines story development, digital culture, and practical production, giving students the tools to create content that travels across platforms and audiences.

Overview
Course Structure
Entry Requirements

Fees:

Enquire for fees

Apply Now

Overview

Vertical Storytelling & Online Content Lab

This course introduces students to the AFDA learning experience, where creativity, collaboration and production meet.

Step Into the Creator Economy.  The world needs new storytellers.  Start creating stories for the platforms shaping global culture.

Certification

Students who successfully complete the course receive:
AFDA Micro-Credential: Vertical Storytelling & Online Drama

Course Structure

What You Will Learn

Story Development

Develop an original concept for a short-form vertical drama.

Topics include:
• Narrative structure for short-form storytelling
• Story ideation and concept development
• Scriptwriting fundamentals
• Audience-driven storytelling

Digital Culture & Context

Understand how storytelling functions in the modern digital ecosystem.

Topics include:
• The global creator economy
• Platform culture and trends
• Digital audiences and engagement
• Responsible storytelling in the online world

Digital Production Practice

Bring your story to life through hands-on production training.

Topics include:
• Vertical cinematography and framing
• Smartphone filmmaking techniques
• Directing performers for digital formats
• Editing for mobile-first platforms

Course Experience

Students collaborate in creative crews to take a story from idea to screen.

The course includes:

• Online lectures and tutorials
• Pre-recorded industry insights
• Facilitated discussions
• Collaborative group work
• On-campus production training
• A final project screening and review

Your Final Project

Each student crew will produce a short vertical drama designed for mobile platforms.

Your project becomes part of your creative portfolio, demonstrating your ability to develop and produce platform-ready storytelling.

Requirements

Entry into AFDA Legacy Learning Short Courses:

A relevant undergraduate qualification (NQF LEVEL 7) from an accredited institution: Bachelor’s Degree / Advanced Diploma

Modules

Entry into AFDA Legacy Learning Short Courses:

A relevant undergraduate qualification (NQF LEVEL 7) from an accredited institution: Bachelor’s Degree / Advanced Diploma