The UCLA School of Theater, Film & Television (TFT) is one of the world’s most prestigious and influential institutions dedicated to the study and creation of theater, film, television, and digital media. Located within the vibrant campus of the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), TFT is renowned for its cutting-edge programs, distinguished faculty, and unparalleled access to the entertainment industry. As a leader in arts education, TFT fosters creativity, critical thinking, and technical expertise, preparing students to become trailblazers in the global entertainment landscape. With a legacy of producing award-winning alumni and groundbreaking work, UCLA TFT continues to shape the future of storytelling and performance arts.

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History and Legacy

Founded in 1947, the UCLA School of Theater, Film & Television has a rich history of innovation and excellence. It was established to provide a comprehensive education in the arts, combining theoretical knowledge with practical experience. Over the decades, TFT has grown into a globally recognized institution, attracting students and faculty from around the world. Its alumni include some of the most influential figures in entertainment, such as Francis Ford Coppola, Alexander Payne, Gina Prince-Bythewood, and Dustin Lance Black. The school’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and artistic excellence has solidified its reputation as a hub for creative talent.

Academic Programs

UCLA TFT offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs designed to nurture the next generation of artists, scholars, and industry leaders.

1. Undergraduate Programs
   • Bachelor of Arts in Theater: This program emphasizes the study of acting, directing, playwriting, design, and production. Students gain hands-on experience through performances, workshops, and collaborations.
   • Bachelor of Arts in Film, Television, and Digital Media: Focused on storytelling, this program covers screenwriting, directing, producing, cinematography, and editing. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and opportunities to create original content.
2. Graduate Programs
   • Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Theater: Specializations include acting, directing, design, and playwriting. The program emphasizes collaboration and innovation, preparing students for careers in theater and related fields.
   • Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Film and Television: This competitive program offers tracks in directing, screenwriting, producing, and cinematography. Students work on thesis projects that showcase their unique voices and visions.
   • Master of Arts (MA) in Cinema and Media Studies: A research-based program that explores the history, theory, and criticism of film, television, and digital media.
   • Ph.D. in Theater and Performance Studies: This doctoral program focuses on advanced research in theater history, theory, and criticism, preparing students for academic and professional careers.
3. Professional Programs
   • Professional Producing Program: A one-year certificate program designed for aspiring producers, covering development, financing, marketing, and distribution.
   • Screenwriting Program: An intensive program that teaches the art and craft of writing for film and television.

Faculty and Research

UCLA TFT boasts a world-class faculty composed of award-winning filmmakers, theater artists, scholars, and industry professionals. Faculty members are actively engaged in research, creative projects, and mentorship, providing students with invaluable insights and guidance. The school also supports interdisciplinary research through its centers and initiatives, such as the UCLA Film & Television Archive, the largest university-held collection of motion pictures and broadcast programming in the world.

Facilities and Resources

TFT students have access to state-of-the-art facilities that rival those of professional studios and theaters. These include:

• The James Bridges Theater: A 260-seat venue equipped with 35mm and digital projection capabilities, used for screenings, lectures, and events.
• The Macgowan Hall Theaters: Multiple performance spaces for theater productions, including the Little Theater and the Freud Playhouse.
• The Melnitz Hall Studios: Soundstages, editing suites, and production labs for film and television projects.
• The Digital Media Lab: A cutting-edge facility for digital content creation, including animation, virtual reality, and interactive media.

Industry Connections and Career Opportunities

Located in the heart of Los Angeles, UCLA TFT offers unparalleled access to the entertainment industry. The school has strong partnerships with major studios, networks, and production companies, providing students with internship opportunities, networking events, and career support. TFT’s Career Center offers workshops, panels, and one-on-one advising to help students navigate the industry and achieve their professional goals.

Diversity and Inclusion

UCLA TFT is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community. The school actively recruits students and faculty from underrepresented backgrounds and supports initiatives that promote equity and social justice in the arts. Programs like the Diversity in Film and Television Initiative aim to amplify diverse voices and stories in the entertainment industry.

Alumni Achievements

TFT alumni have made significant contributions to the arts and entertainment industry, earning accolades such as Academy Awards, Emmy Awards, Tony Awards, and Pulitzer Prizes. Notable alumni include:

• Francis Ford Coppola: Academy Award-winning director of The Godfather trilogy.
• Alexander Payne: Oscar-winning director and screenwriter of Sideways and The Descendants.
• Gina Prince-Bythewood: Director of Love & Basketball and The Woman King.
• Dustin Lance Black: Oscar-winning screenwriter of Milk.

Community Engagement and Public Programs

UCLA TFT is deeply engaged with the broader community through public programs, screenings, and performances. The school hosts events such as the UCLA Festival of New Creative Work, which showcases student projects, and the Hollywood Diversity Report, which examines diversity and inclusion in the entertainment industry.

The School of Theater, Film & Television at UCLA

The UCLA School of Theater, Film & Television stands as a beacon of artistic excellence and innovation. With its rigorous academic programs, world-class faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and strong industry connections, TFT provides students with the tools and opportunities to succeed in the competitive world of entertainment. Whether on stage, on screen, or behind the scenes, TFT graduates are shaping the future of storytelling and making a lasting impact on the global cultural landscape.

Academic Programs Offered at UCLA School of Theater, Film & Television (TFT) 

The UCLA School of Theater, Film & Television (TFT) offers a comprehensive range of academic programs designed to prepare students for careers in theater, film, television, and digital media. These programs are categorized into Undergraduate, Graduate, and Professional Programs, each tailored to provide students with the theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and industry connections needed to excel in their chosen fields. Below is a detailed outline of all the programs offered at UCLA TFT:

Undergraduate Programs

UCLA TFT’s undergraduate programs provide a strong foundation in the arts, combining rigorous academic study with hands-on creative experience.

Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Theater

1. • Duration: 4 years
   • Description: This program offers a broad-based education in theater arts, covering acting, directing, playwriting, design, and production. Students engage in practical training through workshops, rehearsals, and performances, while also studying the history and theory of theater.
   • Specializations: Acting, Directing, Playwriting, Design/Production, and Integrated Studies.
   • Key Features: Access to state-of-the-art theaters, collaboration with faculty and peers, and opportunities to participate in mainstage productions.

Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Film, Television, and Digital Media

• • Duration: 4 years
  • Description: This program focuses on the art and craft of storytelling through film, television, and digital media. Students learn screenwriting, directing, producing, cinematography, editing, and media theory. The program emphasizes both creative and critical thinking, preparing students for careers in the entertainment industry.
  • Key Features: Hands-on production experience, access to professional-grade equipment, and opportunities to showcase work at film festivals and screenings.

Graduate Programs

UCLA TFT’s graduate programs are highly competitive and designed for students seeking advanced training and specialization in their chosen fields.

Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Theater

• • Duration: 3 years
  • Description: This program offers intensive training in theater arts, with specializations in acting, directing, design, and playwriting. Students collaborate on productions, develop their artistic voices, and gain professional experience through internships and industry connections.
  • Specializations:
    • Acting
    • Directing
    • Design (Scenic, Costume, Lighting, Sound)
    • Playwriting
  • Key Features: Mentorship from renowned faculty, opportunities to work in professional theaters, and a culminating thesis project.

Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Film and Television

1. • Duration: 3 years
   • Description: This program is designed for aspiring filmmakers and television creators. It offers tracks in directing, screenwriting, producing, and cinematography. Students work on thesis projects that showcase their unique vision and storytelling abilities.
   • Specializations:
     • Directing
     • Screenwriting
     • Producing
     • Cinematography
   • Key Features: Access to industry-standard equipment, collaboration with peers, and opportunities to screen work at festivals.

Master of Arts (MA) in Cinema and Media Studies

• • Duration: 2 years
  • Description: This research-based program explores the history, theory, and criticism of film, television, and digital media. Students analyze media texts, study industry practices, and engage in scholarly research.
  • Key Features: Access to the UCLA Film & Television Archive, opportunities to present at conferences, and a thesis requirement.

Ph.D. in Theater and Performance Studies

• • Duration: 5–7 years
  • Description: This doctoral program focuses on advanced research in theater history, theory, and criticism. Students work closely with faculty to develop original research projects and contribute to the field of theater and performance studies.
  • Key Features: Interdisciplinary approach, opportunities to teach undergraduate courses, and a dissertation requirement.

Professional Programs

UCLA TFT’s professional programs are designed for individuals seeking specialized training and industry-specific skills.

Professional Producing Program

• • Duration: 1 year (Certificate Program)
  • Description: This intensive program provides aspiring producers with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the entertainment industry. Topics include development, financing, marketing, and distribution.
  • Key Features: Hands-on projects, mentorship from industry professionals, and networking opportunities.

Screenwriting Program

• • Duration: 1 year (Certificate Program)
  • Description: This program teaches the art and craft of writing for film and television. Students develop original scripts, receive feedback from faculty, and learn about the business of screenwriting.
  • Key Features: Workshops with industry professionals, opportunities to pitch projects, and a portfolio of completed scripts.

Additional Opportunities

• Summer Programs: UCLA TFT offers short-term summer courses and workshops in areas such as acting, screenwriting, and film production.
• Study Abroad: Students can participate in international programs to gain global perspectives on theater, film, and media.
• Interdisciplinary Studies: Students have the opportunity to take courses in other UCLA departments, such as music, art, and communication studies, to broaden their education.

Why Study Theater, Film & Television at UCLA?

The UCLA School of Theater, Film & Television offers a diverse array of academic programs that cater to students at all levels of their educational and professional journeys. Whether pursuing a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree, or a professional certificate, students at UCLA TFT benefit from world-class faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and unparalleled access to the entertainment industry. These programs prepare graduates to become leaders and innovators in the fields of theater, film, television, and digital media.

UCLA School of Theater, Film & Television Contact Information

Address

UCLA School of Theater, Film & Television
102 East Melnitz Hall
Los Angeles, CA 90095-1622
USA

Phone Numbers

• Main Office: +1 (310) 825-5761
• Admissions Office: +1 (310) 825-8981
• General Inquiries: +1 (310) 206-8441

Email Addresses

• General Inquiries: tftinfo@tft.ucla.edu
• Admissions: tftadmissions@tft.ucla.edu
• Alumni Relations: tftalumni@tft.ucla.edu
• Development and Donations: tftdevelopment@tft.ucla.edu

Website

UCLA TFT Official Website

Social Media Accounts

• Facebook: UCLA TFT Facebook
• Twitter (X): UCLA TFT Twitter
• Instagram: UCLA TFT Instagram
• YouTube: UCLA TFT YouTube
• LinkedIn: UCLA TFT LinkedIn

Additional Resources

• UCLA TFT Admissions Portal: Apply to UCLA TFT
• UCLA TFT Events Calendar: Events at UCLA TFT
• UCLA TFT Alumni Network: Alumni Resources