Entertainment Studies Certificate Program

Filmmaking is a truly collaborative process. In this certificate, learn about key roles and related aspects of the entertainment industry – from producing to cinematography to directing. Gain a broad understanding of the business by exploring various areas of interest.

PLAN YOUR STUDIES

Courses

9 Required

3 Elective

Methods

In Person

F-1 Visa Eligible

Yes

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This program is perfect for...

Individuals pursuing a career in the entertainment industry

Students with a passion for entertainment who want a versatile, career-ready education

Aspiring entertainment professionals seeking a comprehensive industry foundation

Those interested in exploring multiple aspects of the entertainment industry

What you can learn.

Examine pre-production, production and post-production processes

Study acting, cinematography, directing, development and producing

Learn storytelling techniques that engage audiences across various formats and platforms

Develop a broad skill set across creative, technical and business aspects of the entertainment industry

A Comprehensive Entertainment Industry Education

The UCLA Extension Entertainment Studies Certificate offers an in-depth industry overview across film, television, digital media and beyond. The program is designed for students eager to develop a well-rounded skill set for becoming adaptable professionals in the business.

Explore everything from production to distribution to gain the flexibility needed to pivot across roles and specialties. Build your knowledge, diversify your expertise and open the door to a wider range of career opportunities.

Format: In Person or Online
Duration: 1 year (full-time pace) to 3 years (part-time pace)

This certificate is approved for international students to study full time in the U.S. on an F-1 visa.

International students must meet English language proficiency requirements for admission into the program.

While most certificate programs begin each quarter, some have limited intakes for students studying on F-1 visa. Find this program on the Browse Certificate Programs page to confirm entry quarters before applying.

Learn more:

Get Started

Step 1: Enroll in a Course

Courses in this program are open enrollment and paid for individually. You may take courses without committing to the program.

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Have questions? Talk to an Academic Advisor

Step 2: Become a Candidate

Establish candidacy in the certificate program to receive tailored information, lock in course requirements, and gain access to exclusive student benefits. Registration Fee: $200

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Important Note for International Students: Candidacy fees are included in your program fees and do not need to be paid separately.

View Dates & Program Fees for International Students

Cost and Fees

All courses in this program are paid for individually, unless otherwise noted. An application form is required to establish candidacy in this program. From the 'Apply Now' button, complete the online application and pay the application fee if applicable.

Application and Candidacy Fee

$200

Estimated Textbooks and Materials

$550

Estimated Program Tuition

$10020

International Student Fees

Payment Options

Eligible for VA Benefit
Federal Financial Aid is not available

Required Courses

Customize your experience

Post-Production for Film and Television

Emphasizing how new technologies continue to impact post-production, this course examines the post-production process for film and television. May include guest speakers.

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Pre-Production and Production for Film and Television

This survey course presents an overview of the real-world aspects of producing as practiced in the various sectors of filmed entertainment from script development through pre-production and production.

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The Business of Entertainment

This introductory course examines the changing business issues associated with the entertainment industry through lectures, discussions with industry guests, and case studies.

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The Language of Filmmaking

Learn the many components of film language used by great directors to tell their stories in the most effective way. Analyze shooting and editing techniques employed by the best filmmakers of all time.

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Acting

Students must complete 1 course (4 units) from courses numbered X 400-499 in Acting.

Cinematography

Students must complete 1 course (4 units) from courses numbered X 400-499 in Cinematography.

Directing

Students must complete 1 course (4 units) from courses numbered X 400-499 in Directing.

Development

Students must complete 1 course (4 units) from courses numbered X 400-499 in Film and TV Development.

Producing

Students must complete 1 course (4 units) from courses numbered X 400-499 in Producing.

Elective Courses

Customize your experience

Complete 3 electives (12 units) from courses numbered X 400-499 in Film and TV, Screenwriting, or Music. Below is a list of suggested electives.

Suggested Electives

Entertainment Financing: From First $ to Distribution of Profits

This course covers the financial aspects of each step of the motion picture value chain (from development through profit participation) and considers the implications of financial choices.

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Film and Television Internship

Gain firsthand experience in the entertainment industry through an internship in your chosen field. Only candidates in certificate programs are eligible for internship credit.

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Introduction to Adobe Premiere

Begin your path to mastering Adobe Premiere, an industry standard editing software used for feature films, music videos, and docs. Learn critical editing techniques such as compositing tilting, motion graphics, and more.

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Legal and Practical Aspects of the Music Business

Discover how to monetize and maintain revenue in the music industry, no matter what your role may be, by exploring copyrights, streaming services, social networks, the nature of talent/business agreements, and much more.

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Legal Primer for the Entertainment Business

Explore key legal principles and contractual relationships within film and television. Develop a core understanding of subjects including idea protection, copyright, defamation, privacy, and the right of publicity.

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An internship in the entertainment industry can provide you with practical experience in a variety of job functions. Certificate students must complete a minimum of 12 units of program curriculum (3 courses) before completing the application for approval to enroll in an internship.

Learn more about our Film and TV Internship or Music Industry Internship.

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