The Emerging Filmmakers TV Writing Track immerses students in the world of episodic television. In this three-week program, students write under the guidance of a TV Writing industry professional, engage in screenings, discussions, and writers’ groups, and participate in professional development workshops focused on equipping students with the tools needed to pursue a career in the TV Writing Industry. Commuter and Virtual sessions offered.
The Emerging Filmmakers TV Writing Track immerses students in the world of episodic television. In this three-week program, students write under the guidance of a TV Writing industry professional and participate in professional development workshops, teaching students 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 students how to develop original series concepts, navigate the contemporary marketplace, and take advantage of the tools and opportunities available to gain visibility in this competitive industry. In the process, students 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. In small workshops, students meet to discuss ideas, break stories, and give feedback and notes on each other’s work. Students 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, students will gain the tools necessary to continue writing their pilot episodes and develop future TV show ideas after the program’s conclusion. Students 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 students 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.