Film and TV Development Certificate Program

Learn the skills necessary to develop and sell film and television ideas.

PLAN YOUR STUDIES

Courses

9 Required

3 Elective

F-1 Visa Eligible

Yes

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This program is perfect for...

Individuals seeking creative producer jobs in film and television

Learners interested in entertainment development positions

Professionals pursuing careers as entertainment acquisition executives

Entertainment industry insiders seeking to expand their expertise in development

What you can learn.

Become familiar with the development cycle and how it affects production

Understand and develop compelling stories

Learn how to write coverage

Discuss how to make a project attractive to potential buyers

Prepare for a career in development for film and TV.

The UCLA Extension Film and TV Development Certificate program is ideal for those interested in becoming development or acquisitions executives and creative producers.

Students will learn skills to prepare for entry-level positions in the industry, including how to write coverage, develop compelling stories, and make a project attractive to potential buyers.

Duration: 1 year (full-time pace) to 3 years
Unit Requirement: 48
GPA Requirement: minimum 3.0 for certificate completion

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

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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Introduction to Feature Film Development

Discover the multifaceted world of feature film development from positions of executives and readers, to tracking talent and networking, as well as analyzing/reading scripts, coverage, and developing your own pitches/ideas.

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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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Marketing and Distributing Independent Films Across All Platforms

Learn how to find domestic and overseas distribution for theatrical, television, DVD, and alternative markets by gaining knowledge on how to craft a distribution strategy from the earliest stages of project development.

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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

Starting Your Own Entertainment Production Company

A practical primer on starting a business, staying in business, and thriving, whether in motion pictures, television, or another entertainment industry venture.

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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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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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Marketing Entertainment: Strategies for the Global Marketplace

Learn the global strategies and platforms necessary to successfully profit from a film such as branding your property effectively, distribution procedures, and the power of cutting-edge social media outreach and research.

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An internship in film and television 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.

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