Learn 1-hour TV script story structure, and master story outline skills
Identify tone, characters, dialogue, and themes
Understand 1-hour TV genre standards
Prepare to write a 1-hour spec script
About this course:
Modeled directly on how writers write in the real world of one-hour dramas, this course focuses on what is most central to creating a strong script as well as the largest piece (40 percent) of the writer's deal with any show: the story and outline. You learn to choose the best story for your script of an existing series, map it out from beginning to end, and write a strong outline in proper script format. In the process, you learn how to identify and capture the tone, characters, dialogue, and themes of any one-hour drama series--the key to breaking into the field. Also covered are the various genres (police procedurals, medical, legal) and their specific rules; what's popular in the current marketplace; and how to work within the special requirements of timeslots, outlets, and styles. The course goal is to master the process of constructing an airtight story and detailed outline so you are ready to write a script for any current show as quickly and expertly as possible. All student projects must focus on current shows; no pilots.
Enrollment limited to 15 students; early enrollment advised. Visitors not permitted.
This course is held via video teleconference. Instructors use Zoom to offer live class meetings at the designated class meeting time. Students must be present at the course meeting time as each student’s final grade may include scores for participation.
Please inform your instructor if you will miss a class meeting. You are responsible for any class information you missed. We suggest you arrange with a fellow classmate to share their notes when feasible.
Refund Deadline
No refunds after April 17, 2023
Course Requirements
Internet access required to retrieve course materials.
This online course is conducted through Canvas, a secure website that allows students to log in to access lectures, discussions, and other course materials on demand. There are no required class meetings. Each course is structured with weekly assignments and deadlines. Lectures and coursework are accessible throughout the week. Workshops are conducted in writing via discussion boards with your instructor and classmates.
Refund Deadline
No refunds after April 26, 2023
Course Requirements
Internet access required to retrieve course materials.
Enrollment limited to 15 students; early enrollment advised. Visitors not permitted.
This course meets in person at the designated class meeting time and location. Students must be present at the course meeting time as each student’s final grade may include scores for participation.
Please inform your instructor if you will miss a class meeting. You are responsible for any class information you missed. We suggest you arrange with a fellow classmate to share their notes when feasible.
Refund Deadline
No refunds after April 24, 2023
Course Requirements
Internet access required to retrieve course materials.
Schedule
Type
Date
Time
Location
Discussion
Mon Apr 10, 2023
7:00PM PT - 10:00PM PT
UCLA Extension Gayley Center in WestwoodUCLA Extension Gayley Center 119B
Discussion
Mon Apr 17, 2023
7:00PM PT - 10:00PM PT
UCLA Extension Gayley Center in WestwoodUCLA Extension Gayley Center 119B
Discussion
Mon Apr 24, 2023
7:00PM PT - 10:00PM PT
UCLA Extension Gayley Center in WestwoodUCLA Extension Gayley Center 119B
Discussion
Mon May 1, 2023
7:00PM PT - 10:00PM PT
UCLA Extension Gayley Center in WestwoodUCLA Extension Gayley Center 119B
Discussion
Mon May 8, 2023
7:00PM PT - 10:00PM PT
UCLA Extension Gayley Center in WestwoodUCLA Extension Gayley Center 119B
Discussion
Mon May 15, 2023
7:00PM PT - 10:00PM PT
UCLA Extension Gayley Center in WestwoodUCLA Extension Gayley Center 119B
Discussion
Mon May 22, 2023
7:00PM PT - 10:00PM PT
UCLA Extension Gayley Center in WestwoodUCLA Extension Gayley Center 119B
Discussion
Mon Jun 5, 2023
7:00PM PT - 10:00PM PT
UCLA Extension Gayley Center in WestwoodUCLA Extension Gayley Center 119B
Discussion
Mon Jun 12, 2023
7:00PM PT - 10:00PM PT
UCLA Extension Gayley Center in WestwoodUCLA Extension Gayley Center 119B
Contact Us
Speak to a program representative. Hours: Mon-Fri, 8am-5pm.
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