Camp Info
| Ages: | 15–18 |
| Type: | Overnight |
| Month: | Summer |
| Gender: | Co-Ed |
| Setting: | City |
| Lodging: | Dorm |
| Academics: | Academics, Liberal Arts, Creative Writing, Writing |
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Los Angeles, CA, USA
LMU Beginning Screenwriting offers an immersive introduction to writing for film and television in a structured, supportive setting. The atmosphere is creative and focused, blending classroom instruction with practical writing time and collaborative discussion. Students explore how ideas turn into scripts and how screen stories differ from novels, plays, or short stories.
The program centers on the core elements of screenwriting, including story structure, character development, dialogue, genre, and proper formatting. Students don’t just learn theory—they actively write, revise, and workshop their own material. Analytical viewings of well-known films, both classic and contemporary, help students understand how professional scripts work on screen and why certain storytelling choices matter.
This program is best suited for motivated high school students who enjoy writing, storytelling, or filmmaking and want to explore screenwriting in a college-style environment. No advanced experience is required, but students should be ready to participate in discussions, share ideas, and give and receive constructive feedback. By the end of the program, participants gain stronger writing skills, a deeper understanding of cinematic storytelling, and a clearer sense of whether screenwriting is something they want to pursue further.
| Ages: | 15–18 |
| Type: | Overnight |
| Month: | Summer |
| Gender: | Co-Ed |
| Setting: | City |
| Lodging: | Dorm |
| Academics: | Academics, Liberal Arts, Creative Writing, Writing |
You won’t be charged yet. The camp will contact you to confirm all terms first.
You can still submit a quick request to let the camp know you’re interested.
Beginning Screenwriting is a fully residential program. All participants are required to live on campus for the duration of the program, and commuter options are not available.
Students stay in university housing and experience daily life in a college setting, which supports independence and immersion in the academic schedule. Living on campus also allows easy access to classrooms, common areas, and recreation facilities, helping students balance focused writing time with opportunities to relax and connect with peers outside of class.
Housing and meals are included for the full two-week program. Students receive daily meals through campus dining services, making it easy to stay energized during full days of classes and writing sessions. Meal times also provide natural opportunities for informal conversation and idea-sharing with peers.
Participants may choose to bring personal snacks to support their individual needs during long classroom days.
LMU places strong emphasis on the safety and well-being of minors participating in on-campus youth programs. Additional safeguards are in place for participants under 18, including structured supervision, required training for staff working with minors, and background checks for instructors and supervisors. Clear policies guide how youth programs operate on campus, helping create a secure and well-managed environment where students can focus on learning and creative work.
The program is designed to support students’ general well-being during an academically focused schedule. Participants should arrive prepared for full classroom days that involve writing, discussion, and screen viewings. Students are expected to manage any personal medications independently, with relevant health information shared in advance.
Breaks are built into the daily schedule to allow time for rest and meals. Families are encouraged to communicate any important health-related needs ahead of time so staff can better support participants during the program.
LMU’s summer programs reflect the university’s long-standing reputation in the creative arts and storytelling disciplines. Screenwriting students become part of a culture that values thoughtful discussion, collaboration, and creative risk-taking.
The emphasis on workshop-style learning and peer feedback mirrors the traditions of film schools, where ideas are developed through conversation and revision. This academic approach helps students experience how writers learn and grow within a university setting known for its connection to the film and television industry.
The activities program introduces students to the full script development process, from idea to finished short screenplay. Under the guidance of full-time faculty who are also professional screenwriters, students build foundational skills while developing their own creative voices. Instruction focuses on how screen stories are structured and how characters, dialogue, and action work together on the page.
Students analyze popular films, both classic and contemporary, to better understand cinematic storytelling and the realities of writing for the motion picture industry. Writing workshops allow participants to draft, revise, and refine their scripts in a supportive environment that values collaboration and constructive feedback. In addition to classroom learning, students have the opportunity to tour a local film or television studio, offering real-world insight into the industry.
By the end of the program, each student leaves with a completed short script and stronger writing skills.
This program is academically focused and best suited for students who enjoy writing and thoughtful discussion. While no prior screenwriting experience is required, participants should be ready for an immersive classroom environment and an active writing schedule.
