Located at the epicenter of the entertainment industry, the Entertainment Studies program at UCLA Extension provides dynamic professional training in the art and business of entertainment. Each year, we offer over 250 individual courses and 11 specialized certificates. Our courses are designed for people who want real-world information combined with the integrity and quality of a curriculum approved by the UCLA Academic Senate. In addition, you receive:
- Extensive networking and internship opportunities
- The deep industry experience of our instructors
- Up to the minute information on changes in technology and the marketplace and what’s current in Entertainment
What Sets Us Apart
Accessible to All
Our Open Admission Policy means no degree or prior training is required (except for the Certificate in Film Scoring).
Flexible and Affordable
Designed to accommodate the schedules of busy adults, our courses are primarily held in the evenings and on weekends. Most courses meet one evening per week and most certificates can be started any quarter. In addition, we offer a growing selection of online courses to serve those in and out of Los Angeles.
You can complete your studies at your own pace and can enroll in as many or as few courses as meet your needs. Interested in a certificate? You can complete your studies in as little as nine months or take up to three years.
Complete certificate tuition ranges from $5,500 to $15,000, well below comparable programs. A $200 candidacy fee is required.
A Comprehensive Array of Courses Is Available Year-Round
From overviews of the entire production process to small hands-on workshops, we offer an extensive curriculum each quarter in acting, directing, producing, development, cinematography, business and management of entertainment, music business, independent music production, and film scoring.
New courses and instructors are added quarterly to provide the most current information and contacts within the entertainment industry.
Many courses include field trips to professional production and post-production facilities.
Do It Yourself Approach to Creating Projects
You don’t need expensive equipment and tools to create high quality projects. Under the guidance of instructors who are also industry professionals, you learn to create, produce, and promote your entertainment project—be it a movie, webisode, or record—using your own equipment. This helps keep program costs low while fostering the creativity and resourcefulness needed to succeed in the entertainment industry today.
Hundreds of Guest Speakers Share Their Expertise throughout the Year
In addition to our current roster of expert instructors, hundreds of guest speakers from all facets of the industry visit our classes each year to share practical advice and insights with you on what it’s like working in the entertainment business today.
The Value of UCLA Extension’s Certificates
Employers worldwide recognize the importance of ongoing training and up-to-date skills. Certificate programs are typically very well received by employers, and can be a significant consideration for hiring and promotion. In addition, because certificate program curricula are reviewed at least every 5 years, and frequently approved by accredited professional organizations, state commissions, and boards, employers can rest assured of relevant, current topic coverage in the classroom.