Feature Film and Television Writing Conservatories

A 9-month accelerated online program in feature film or television writing.

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

Apply Now

Television Writing Conservatory

Learn to write a powerful script for an existing one-hour or half-hour series
Craft an original pilot script 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

Apply Now

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.

Program Benefits

Conservatory Student Benefits

Free WP Now Membership (a $139 value)
Get coverage on your script by an industry professional
Complimentary enrollment in either the Feature Film or Television Writing Certificate (a $200 value)

Exclusive Benefit for Writers' Program Certificate Students (after opt-in enrollment)

Get valuable feedback through a 1-on-1 script consultation with a Writers’ Program instructor after completion of coursework (value up to $775)

Additional Benefits of UCLA Extension Certificate Students

Access to Handshake, UCLA Career Center’s online job board, with access to thousands of job and internship postings
Become a member of the UCLA Alumni Association (upon completing your certificate) and a nationwide network of Bruin family
Join us for the annual UCLA Extension Graduation Ceremony on campus to celebrate all your hard work
Get access to UCLA Recreation facilities as a student affiliate*
Open an affiliate/guest UCLA Bruin ID Card* for a number of student-related benefits
PLUS, all UCLA Extension students have access to UCLA Extension’s Career Resources including online career coaching, workshops and networking events