Content Creation & Scriptwriting
Use improv and playwriting skills to influence and shape the world of content creation.
Attend Our Virtual Info Session
Join us Tuesday, December 9th at 7:30 PM PT for a virtual information session on UCLA Theater Laboratory Intensives offerings for Summer 2026!
Program Overview
The Content Creation and Scriptwriting Summer Institute is a two-week, UC credit-bearing intensive program for students interested in writing for the web, film, and theater. This program provides opportunities to work with our distinguished faculty in classes such as web writing, screenwriting, play analysis, improv, and sketch comedy. The combination of these courses will allow students to use their training to create stories that can be shared across all entertainment mediums. Students will learn the technical components of writing for the screen, stage and web while gaining hands-on experience in developing, filming and completing three short-form writing samples. Beyond the classroom, students will attend guest workshops, and learn the art of collaboration.
The program is designed for artists and students who seek additional discipline and training required for participation in a university theater program or a career in the entertainment industry. Participation in this institute is open to high school (16 years and older), college, and professional artists.
Admission to the program is by digital audition and instructor consent. As part of the application process, we encourage each applicant to submit a resume. The resume can be uploaded during the application process.
*Please note that all levels are encouraged to apply.
Program Details
On-Campus (Commuter)
As a commuter, housing contracts are not available through UCLA Housing Department, however, the UCLA Summer Hostel that is located on the residence hill provides housing options for all registered UCLA Summer Sessions students who are 18 years of age or older. For those who will not securing housing on campus, it is expected that students who fall into this category will commute to class daily.
Program Costs
2026 fees will be announced this winter and include on-campus housing costs.
2025 (Commuter only) fees were:
Program Fee: $2560
University Fees: $111
Registration Fee: $350
Total Fee: $3021
Contact Theater Laboratory Intensives
theatersummerinstitutes@tft.ucla.edu
Requirements
Applications are reviewed and admission to the program is granted on a rolling basis starting December 1st. Applying at your earliest convenience, prior to May 1st, is highly recommended.
Applicants are required to provide the following during the online registration process:
In 400 words, why are you interested in content creation and scriptwriting and what do you hope to gain?
A resume (if you do not have a resume, submit a brief description of your theatrical and/or artistic experience). The resume can be uploaded as a word or pdf file during the application process.
Note:
The essay will be prompted on the registration form and can be uploaded (.pdf) along with the resume during the application process.
All responses will not be accessible to edit in any form after submission of the application.
Program Eligibility
- 9th – 12th grade
- Ages 15 – 19
Curriculum
View sample syllabus. UCLA Theater Laboratory Intensive students will receive a certificate of completion at the conclusion of the program. The program does not carry college credit.
Due to the intensive nature of the program, a maximum of one excused program absence is permitted.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Financial Aid is not available for the Theater Laboratory Intensives. As an alternative, students should explore the American Theater Wing, Andrew Lloyd Weber Training scholarship .
Important Dates and Deadlines
June 1, 2026
Application deadline
June 6, 2026
Enrollment Deadline
Sessions
June 21-July 3, 2026