Emerging Filmmakers TV Writing
Session A In-Person Commuter (June 23 – July 11, 2025)
Session B Virtual (July 14 – 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
The Emerging Filmmakers TV Writing Track immerses participants in the world of episodic television. In this program, participants write under the guidance of a TV Writing industry professional and participate in professional development workshops, teaching participants the tools needed to pursue a career in the TV Writing Industry. This program mirrors the practice of professional writers in the world of episodic television and digital media by teaching participants how to develop original series concepts, how to navigate the contemporary marketplace and how to take advantage of the tools and opportunities available to gain visibility in this competitive industry. In the process, participants learn how to identify and capture the tone, characters, dialogue, and themes that make their story unique while collaborating in a workshop environment with their peers.
Curriculum
In small workshops, participants meet to discuss ideas, break stories, and give feedback and notes on each other’s work. Participants complete a beat sheet and outline for the first act of their original pilot episode, a series treatment, and the teaser of the pilot script under the guidance of a TV industry professional. In this program, participants will gain the tools necessary to continue writing their pilot episodes and develop future TV show ideas after the program’s conclusion.
Participants will attend professional development workshops led by guest lecturers to explore topics such as How to Pitch, how to develop a strong portfolio, and the role of writer’s rooms. These development workshops will focus on identifying the tools, strategies, and career pathways available to aspiring TV Writers.
Please note that this is an intensive program and participants are expected to spend a minimum of 20 hours-per-week writing outside of class meetings.
UCLA Emerging Filmmakers 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.
Portfolio Review
In the final week of the program, each participant will have a one-on-one virtual portfolio review with an industry professional to discuss their writing, their future academic and career goals and their ‘next-steps strategy’.
Professional Development
How to Pitch:
In this workshop, participants will get the inside scoop of how projects are pitched and sold in Hollywood taught by a seasoned industry professional. With an eye toward the pitch panels at the end of the session, participants will learn what goes into a pitch, the elements that make it compelling, and how to apply it to their own material in a way that will keep their listeners on the edge of their seats.
Participants will also tour a major Hollywood Studio and have opportunities to connect with other UCLA Emerging Filmmakers students.
Table Read
The program concludes with a table reading of a section from participants’ scripts by professional actors, a closing ceremony, and a networking mixer for participants. Friends and family are welcome!
Eligibility
This track is open to high school students enrolled in 9th – 12th grade. Applicants must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher. International students must also submit proof of TOEFL results with a score of 100 (iBT) or above.
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 3.0 or higher. For students currently in 9th grade, please provide at least 2 years of study (7th, 8th, and fall semester of 9th).
- 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.
Supply List
Technology
Access to a laptop/computer with:
- Final Draft 12 or 13 Educational Screenwriting Software
- Microphone (built-in, USB, or wireless Bluetooth)
- Webcam (built-in or USB).
Internet connection – broadband with a minimum bandwidth of 600kbps (up/ down); 1.5 Mbps (up/down) or higher is recommended.
Program Details
Schedule
Program dates for 2026 will be announced this fall.
Emerging Filmmakers TV Writing Session A Commuter (June 23 – July 11, 2025)
Emerging Filmmakers TV Writing Session B Virtual (July 14 – 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:
In-Person Commuter:
Program Fee: $4245
Registration Fee: $350
Total Fee: $4595
Virtual:
Program Fee: $2605
Registration Fee: $350
Total Fee: $2955
For information on payment deadlines, refund policies and other questions, please see our Frequently Asked Questions here
Please see our Frequently Asked Questions page to find answers to commonly asked questions about UCLA Emerging Filmmakers