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University Certificate - Directing

UCLA Extension

Los Angeles campus — Los Angeles, California, United States

Study Level
Certificate · 1-Year Post-Secondary Certificate
Duration
To be confirmed
Study Mode
To be confirmed
Next Intake
March 2027
Tuition Fee
USD 24,290
Application Fee
None listed
Scholarships Available
None listed
Post-Study Work Information
Optional Practical Training (OPT): Verify before applying
Application Status
Open — confirm with Eagle Link (Not confirmed)

Program information is subject to institution confirmation. Fees, deadlines, intakes and entry requirements may change.

Overview

With a focus on independent filmmaking, the Directing Certificate teaches the essential principles of the art and craft of directing. The instructors mentor students in the role of story, directing actors, and the aesthetics of filmmaking, as well as the practical responsibilities of the director in relationship to key positions on a production. Using the student’s own equipment, directing workshops offer a comprehensive hands-on component. Beginning with simple exercises, students progress to directing an original short film that is screened for an invited audience. This program is perfect for: Aspiring directors looking for a hands-on education to learn the art of making movies Self-taught filmmakers who want to build upon their skills with formal training and mentorship Entertainment professionals looking for a career transition into directing Individuals passionate about storytelling and independent filmmaking What students can learn: A comprehensive understanding of the filmmaking process, including image composition and lighting, camera movements, editing, sound, budgeting, and scheduling Responsibilities of the director in relationship to pre-production, production, and post-production How to work with actors, and the directorial skills required for a successful artistic collaboration How to combine key elements to communicate the themes, conflict, and story arcs that create compelling narrative for a visual medium How to prepare a film for shooting, such as script analysis, casting, camera blocking, planning the shot list, photographing the subtext, film grammar, visual composition, the role of music, and sound effects
Faculty / school
—
Field of study
—
Credential
1-Year Post-Secondary Certificate
Relationship
Available Through Eagle Link

Entry Requirements

Entry requirements will be confirmed by the institution or authorized partner before application.

English-language requirements

English-language requirements will be confirmed by the institution or authorized partner before application.

Fees & Costs

Tuition fee
USD 24,290
Application fee
None listed
Deposit required
Not listed
Estimated other compulsory fees
Not listed — confirm with Eagle Link.

Institution fees are paid according to the institution's instructions. Any Eagle Link service fee is shown on an Eagle Link invoice before payment. See our Payments Policy.

Scholarships

No scholarship is currently listed for this program. Explore scholarships and funding.

Scholarships are competitive and may change, close or be withdrawn. Eagle Link does not guarantee that any student will receive a scholarship.

Intakes & Deadlines

Upcoming intakes
March 2027, March 2028, March 2029
Application deadline
15 February 2027
Application status
Confirm with Eagle Link
Intake availability
Not confirmed

Campus & Location

Los Angeles campus

Los Angeles, California, United States

1145 Gayley Ave.

Los Angeles campus campus, photo 1 Los Angeles campus campus, photo 2 Los Angeles campus campus, photo 3 Los Angeles campus campus, photo 4 Los Angeles campus campus, photo 5 Los Angeles campus campus, photo 6

Post-Study Work / Immigration Information

Please confirm current eligibility with Eagle Link before applying.

Optional Practical Training (OPT)
Verify before applying

OPT and STEM OPT eligibility depend on maintaining F-1 status and on the program. A program counts as STEM only when its CIP code is on the official STEM list — not because its name sounds technical.

Official source

Eagle Link does not guarantee visa approval and does not make immigration decisions.

About the Institution

For over a century, UCLA Extension has helped prepare people to live better lives through the power of education. As one of the United States of America's oldest, largest and most comprehensive continuing and professional studies providers, UCLA Extension gives students a wide range of options to advance in their career, switch careers, or achieve personal growth. The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). All courses, certificate programs, and course specializations offered by UCLA Extension have been developed and...

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Program information last verified 8 October 2026.