Media Parks:
The Cinematic & Televisual History of Theme Parks
Session A (July 21 – August 2, 2025)
Program dates for 2026 will be announced this fall.
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On-campus housing is back for Summer 2026!
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Program Overview
In this two-week intensive program, participants will explore theme park history, and the evolution of the relationship between moving image media (film, television, and video games) and theme parks. The program will include lectures, screenings, discussions and guided site visits to Disneyland, Disneyland California Adventure, Universal Studios Hollywood, and Warner Brothers Studios. The course will examine the contexts and shared histories of theme parks and screen media, explore theoretical, industrial, and cultural issues surrounding them, and investigate how these cultural phenomena are shaping one another in today’s media landscape.
In class, participants will study case studies of theme park rides and theme park “lands” by researching and analyzing scholarly texts, reference films, television shows, and video games. Each guided site visit will also include an on-site behind-the-scenes lecture.
Curriculum
Due to the intensive nature of the program, a maximum of one excused program absence is permitted.
Eligibility
Online Registration
Registration opens February 15
Applicants are required to provide the following during the online registration process:
- An unofficial transcript from grade 9 to present reflecting a cumulative GPA of 3.2 or higher.
- If your school transcript utilizes a different grading system, please submit your transcript as is. If available, please attach a translation/equivalency guide.
- If your school has a translation/equivalency guide, please also include it with your transcript. If you do not have a translation/equivalency guide, please still submit your most up-to-date transcript as is for staff to review.
International students must also submit:
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- Proof of TOEFL Results with score of 100 or above. Please review the Emerging Filmmakers Frequently Asked Questions page for more information about English Language requirements.
Eligible applicants who successfully submit all requirements will be reviewed and notified via email of an admission decision within two weeks. Early application is strongly encouraged.
There is a non-refundable application fee of $35.
I really enjoyed the course as whole. Everything put together made it an unforgettable experience. The professor, peers, TA’s, food were amazing.
This course was the highlight of my summer.
Supply List
Technology
Access to a laptop/computer to complete class assignments.
Additional Details
Schedule
Program dates for 2026 will be announced this fall.
Emerging Filmmakers Media Parks Session A (July 21 – August 2, 2025)
NOTE: All course meeting times are in Pacific Daylight Time (PDT). The program schedule is subject to change.
On Campus (Housing Mandatory)
Due to the rigorous and intense nature of the program, the residential plan, which includes a meal plan, is mandatory for all on-campus participants. Participants will be housed in one of the UCLA residence halls, comfortably furnished and conveniently located within easy walking distance of classrooms, libraries, and recreational facilities.
Program Costs
2026 fees will be announced this winter and include on-campus housing costs.
2025 (Commuter only) fees were:
Program Fee: $5995
Registration Fee: $350
Total Fee: $6345
Current UCLA Student Program Costs:
Program Fee: $4215
Registration Fee: $350
Total Fee: $4565
Please see our Frequently Asked Questions page to find answers to commonly asked questions about UCLA Emerging Filmmakers