Feature Film and Television Writing Conservatories
Feature Film and Television Writing Conservatories
Drive, Passion, Ambition, Success
The Writers’ Program at UCLA Extension designed our screenwriting conservatories for the most ambitious students—students who know the clock is ticking and who can’t wait to start their careers in writing for the screen.
Over 9 months, you develop new projects from scratch and learn to write them effectively. A special 5-week section of the conservatories focuses on professional development—everything you need to know to get into the industry, network, navigate your career, and stay focused on your writing.
Conservatories are limited to a cohort of 8 students, who are approved for enrollment by application reviewed by the instructor. This group will be your first community as you become cheerleaders for each other’s progress and achievements, all under the guidance of a seasoned mentor who wants to see you succeed.
Best of all, this program can be completed online and in the comfort of your own home. Two weekly Zoom meetings ensure close collaboration with your instructor and classmates, keeping you on track to meet your writing goals by the course's end.
How to Enroll
Select one workshop below. On the course page for your selected workshop, click the Enroll button and checkout to begin the application process.
Feature Film Writing Conservatory
- Develop, write, and polish a full screenplay in 9 months
- Work with other passionate writers to complete your story and script
- Learn about the industry from special guest speakers who demystify the business and share career strategies
- Get support, honest feedback, and encouragement each step of the way
Television Writing Conservatory
- Learn to write powerful TV scripts from the ground up
- Craft two original pilot scripts that captures your unique vision
- Learn about the industry from special guest speakers who demystify the business and share career strategies
- Polish your completed script drafts in a supportive community of writers
What You Can Expect
Learn from Successful Writers with Live Instruction
The Feature Film and Television Writing Conservatories are led by top Writers’ Program instructors, all of whom are veteran writers with flourishing careers. Under their guidance, advice, encouragement, and support, students learn essential writing techniques and develop habits that can be sustained over a lifetime of writing. Instructors show up and lead each class meeting, helping you develop a strong rapport and respectful working relationship.
An Accelerated Classroom Experience
Get the equivalent of 18-months of traditional study in half the time with our proven expedited workshop schedule. Two class meetings per week on Zoom help you stay motivated and focused.
Our small class size means each of the 8 enrolled students will get unparalleled personalized support and feedback each step of the way, while developing the essential skills of working with other writers, sharing and receiving notes, and participating in a tightknit community of writers.
Comprehensive Professional Development
Hear from active industry professionals about how to make it as a professional, from how to network with executives and other writers to how to pitch your work successfully in a variety of scenarios. Additional topics include preparing for rejections/success, submitting to competitions and fellowships, joining the Writers Guild of America, and getting representation, among many more.
Table Reads by Professional Actors
Elevate your scripts and your learning experience with table reads with SAG-AFTRA actors. This exceptional event breathes life into your characters, ignites your imagination, and deepens your insight into your own writing, all through their riveting performances.
Exclusive Conservatory Student Benefits
- Free WP Now Membership (a $139 value)
- Get coverage on your script by an industry professional
- Receive an Award of Completion at the end of the program
- Get valuable feedback through a 1-on-1 script consultation with a Writers’ Program instructor after completion of coursework (value up to $775)
Application Process (Free)
Admission to either the Feature Film or Television Writing Conservatories are by application only. The selection process is competitive.
To apply, you’ll be asked to submit:
- One writing sample
- A two-to-three page personal statement
- Resume
- Up to three loglines for a new project you wish to develop in the course
Participants will not be charged the full course fee unless they are selected for the series.