UCLA's School of Theater, Film & Television is one of the oldest and largest film schools in the United States
The school sits within UCLA's School of the Arts and Architecture in Los Angeles and offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in film, television, theater, and related fields. Unlike some film schools that focus only on production, UCLA's program includes screenwriting, directing, producing, cinematography, editing, and sound design across both narrative and documentary work. The school has been training filmmakers since 1947 and operates multiple soundstages and editing facilities on campus.
The school is selective. Admission requires a portfolio or creative sample, strong academic credentials, and demonstrated interest in your chosen field. Tuition and fees for UCLA graduate students run several thousand dollars per quarter, and undergraduate costs vary based on residency status. Most students spend two to four years in their program depending on the degree level.
Key Takeaways
- UCLA offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in film production, screenwriting, directing, cinematography, editing, television, and theater, with separate admissions tracks for each discipline.
- The school requires a portfolio or creative sample as part of the process, not just test scores and transcripts.
- Graduate programs typically run two years for master's degrees, while undergraduate film study is a four-year commitment.
- UCLA is located in Los Angeles, which gives students access to industry professionals, internship opportunities, and the entertainment market itself.
Undergraduate Film and Television Programs
UCLA offers a four-year undergraduate degree in film and television through the School of Theater, Film & Television. Students do not declare a major in film until the end of their second year, which means you take general education courses first and then move into production, screenwriting, or other specializations. The program emphasizes both technical skills and critical thinking about cinema and storytelling.
Undergraduate applicants must submit a portfolio or creative sample — usually a short film, screenplay excerpt, or other creative work that shows your interests and abilities. UCLA also requires high school transcripts, standardized test scores (though the school has adjusted testing requirements over time), and essays. Admission is competitive; the school receives thousands of applications each year and accepts a small percentage.
Once admitted, undergraduates take courses in production, history, theory, and their chosen specialty. They have access to UCLA's equipment, soundstages, and editing bays. Many students make short films as part of their coursework, and some of these films have gone on to win festival recognition.
Graduate Programs in Film, Television, Screenwriting, and Directing
UCLA offers separate master's degree programs for different disciplines: film production, screenwriting, directing, cinematography, editing, and television. Each program is two years long and admits a small cohort each year. Graduate students work on thesis projects — typically a short film or television pilot — during their second year.
Graduate admissions also require a portfolio or creative sample, a statement of purpose, transcripts, and letters of recommendation. Some programs ask for writing samples or specific technical demonstrations. The graduate process process is more specialized than undergraduate admissions because each program looks for different skills and experience.
Graduate tuition and fees vary by program and residency status. California residents pay less than out-of-state students. Most graduate students attend full-time and do not work outside the program, though some pursue internships or freelance work in the industry during breaks.
Equipment, Facilities, and Resources Available to Students
UCLA operates multiple soundstages, editing suites, color grading labs, and sound mixing facilities on the Westwood campus. Students have access to professional-grade cameras, lighting equipment, and recording gear. The school maintains a film library and screening room where students watch and study classic and contemporary films as part of their coursework.
The school also runs the UCLA Film & Television Archive, which preserves and screens films and television programs. Students can view materials from the archive and sometimes work on preservation projects. Additionally, UCLA hosts visiting filmmakers, screenwriters, and industry professionals who give talks and workshops throughout the year.
Students have the opportunity to work on student films, thesis projects, and sometimes on productions that bring in outside funding or industry partners. These real-world projects give students experience working with crews, managing budgets, and solving problems on set.
Location in Los Angeles and Industry Connections
UCLA's location in Los Angeles puts students near studios, production companies, post-production facilities, and industry professionals. Many students intern at studios, production companies, or post-production houses while in school. The proximity to the entertainment industry means guest speakers, networking events, and job opportunities are built into student life.
Alumni of UCLA's film school work as directors, cinematographers, screenwriters, editors, and producers at major studios and independent production companies. The school maintains relationships with industry partners who sometimes hire graduates or offer internships to current students. However, attending UCLA does not may provide industry work — the degree opens doors, but students must build their own careers after graduation.
how the process works and What to Prepare
Applications to UCLA's film and television programs go through the university's general admissions portal, but each program within the school has its own requirements and important date. You will need to submit transcripts, test scores (requirements vary by program and year), essays, and a creative portfolio or sample.
The portfolio is the most important part of your process for film school programs. For production or directing, this is usually a short film or video work you have made. For screenwriting, it is a screenplay or script sample. For cinematography, it might be a reel of your best shots or a short film you shot. For editing, a reel showing your editing work. Start preparing your portfolio months in advance — rushing a portfolio at the last minute usually shows.
process important date typically fall in the fall or early winter for programs starting the following fall. Check the UCLA School of Theater, Film & Television website for the specific important date for your program, as important date vary. The school notifies applicants of decisions in spring.
Cost and Financial Support
Tuition and fees for UCLA students depend on residency status. California residents pay significantly less than out-of-state or international students. Graduate tuition runs several thousand dollars per quarter, and undergraduate costs are similar but spread across the academic year. These figures change annually, so check UCLA's official website for current costs.
UCLA offers scholarships, grants, and loans to students who demonstrate financial need or academic merit. Graduate students sometimes receive teaching assistantships or research positions that cover tuition and provide a stipend. International students should research visa requirements and any restrictions on financial support, as these vary by country and visa type.
Many students work part-time jobs, freelance in the industry, or take out loans to cover costs. Some pursue internships that pay, though paid internships in film and television are not may provide. Budget for living expenses in Los Angeles, which are higher than many other parts of the country.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need professional filmmaking experience to explore?
No, but you do need to show some creative work or interest in your chosen field. Applicants come from many backgrounds — some have made films in high school or college, others have worked in theater or visual arts. Your portfolio should show your current abilities and your potential to grow, not necessarily professional-level work.
Can I explore to multiple programs within UCLA's film school?
You can submit separate applications to different programs if you meet each program's requirements and important date. However, each process requires its own portfolio and fees. Most applicants focus on one program that matches their primary interest.
What is the acceptance rate for UCLA's film programs?
UCLA's film and television programs are highly selective and accept a small percentage of applicants each year. Exact acceptance rates vary by program and year. Check the school's website or contact the admissions office for the most current figures for your specific program.
Do I have to live in Los Angeles to attend?
Yes, UCLA is located in Los Angeles and programs are designed for full-time, in-person attendance. Students live in university housing, off-campus apartments, or with family in the area. Distance learning is not an option for film and television programs.
What happens after graduation?
Graduates work in various roles in film, television, and related industries — as directors, cinematographers, editors, screenwriters, producers, and in other positions. Some start their own production companies or pursue freelance work. Others work for studios, streaming services, or independent production companies. The degree and network you build at UCLA are tools, but your career depends on the work you do after graduation.