UCLA Film & Television Emerging Filmmakers TV Writing Recently Updated

The Emerging Filmmakers TV Writing Track immerses students in the world of episodic television. In this two-week (on-campus) or three-week (online) 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. On-Campus and Virtual sessions offered.

UCLA Emerging Filmmakers TV Writing immerses students in the creative process behind storytelling for television, streaming, and digital platforms. Guided by a TV industry professional, students develop their own original series concept and experience what it’s like to collaborate in a writers’ room—pitching ideas, breaking stories, and bringing characters to life through lively discussions and creative collaboration. Through lectures, writing exercises, screenings, script readings, and collaborative workshops, students explore the techniques professionals use to captivate audiences. In the process, students learn how to shape the tone, characters, dialogue, and themes that make their voice unique.

In small workshops, students dive into the creative process — pitching ideas, breaking stories, and exchanging feedback in a collaborative environment that mirrors a professional writers’ room. Guided by an experienced TV industry professional, students draft the foundational elements for their original series: a beat sheet of their original pilot episode, a visual pitch deck, and the teaser of the pilot script. Students also gain the tools necessary to continue writing their pilot episodes and develop future TV show ideas after the program concludes.

This immersive experience mirrors the practice of professional writers in the world of television and digital media by teaching students about industry expectations, how to develop original series concepts, navigate the contemporary marketplace, and take advantage of the tools and opportunities available to gain visibility in the industry.

UCLA Emerging Filmmakers will receive a certificate of completion at the conclusion of the program.

Due to the program’s intensive nature, a maximum of one excused program absence is permitted.

Please note that this is an intensive program. Students should plan to spend at least 15 hours per week writing outside of class, with built-in time during Writers Groups to work on assignments.