Media Parks:
The Cinematic & Televisual History of Theme Parks
Session A (July 21 – August 2, 2025)
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Program Overview
In this two-week intensive program, students 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, students 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
This track is open to high-school students enrolled in 10th-12th grade in Spring 2025 with a GPA of 3.2 or higher.
Online Registration
Registration opens February 15, 2025.
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.
- INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS: If you are an international student, a transcript refers to your complete secondary academic record. To learn more about converting your grades into a US-based GPA, please click here.
- 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.
Application Questions
- Why would you like to participate in the program, and what do you expect to gain from the experience? (150 words or less)
- Describe a specific example of a recent collaborative experience when you positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes or contributed to group efforts over time. (250-300 words)
- Students are expected to exhibit maturity inside and outside of the classroom and to abide by the UCLA Student Conduct Code. Bullying, academic dishonesty, and disorderly behavior, among other violations, will not be tolerated. Describe a time that you witnessed bullying or disrespectful behavior among your classmates. How did you respond? What did you learn? (150-200 words)
- Is it better to be perfect and late, or good and on time? (100 words or less)
- This is a disciplined and rigorous program. Describe a time you took on an academic challenge. What were some of the obstacles you encountered and how did you overcome them? Remember to be specific. (250 – 300 words)
- Design a theme park ride that has not been created before, based on a TV show or film. Describe the ride’s concept, focusing on the story you want to tell and how the ride’s elements (ie: scenery, motion, special effects) help bring that story to life. (100-150 words)
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
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.
Commuter Program
UCLA Emerging Filmmakers Media Parks is a commuter program. Participants must commute to the UCLA campus each day of the program. Specific location information (e.g. classroom) will be provided to enrolled students closer to the start of the program.
For more information, we encourage parents and students to attend an upcoming info session.
Program Costs
Program Fee: $5995
Registration Fee: $350
Total Fee: $6345
Please see our Frequently Asked Questions page to find answers to commonly asked questions about UCLA Emerging Filmmakers