SCA Summer Program Class Catalog

The International Applications is now closed.
The 2025 USC SCA Summer Program runs from Friday, June 20, to Friday, August 1.
The deadline for Applications from U.S. Citizens is Wednesday, April 30, at 5:00 PM PT. For any questions, please email us at summer@cinema.usc.edu.


 
 
Important Notice:

  • Students may only take a maximum of 8 units.
  • Students cannot take more than one production course.
  • Students cannot take a production course with any of the feature writing courses.
  • Students cannot take more than one feature writing course.
  • No auditing courses.
  • The SCA Summer Program courses are intended for students not currently enrolled at USC/SCA
  • USC/SCA students will not be granted D-Clearance for SCA Summer Program courses.

USC NBCUniversal Producing and Directing Class - 8 Units

Units: 8
Student Level: All

Jun 23 - Aug 1   - Unavailable
In-Person - Ages 16+
Schedule: MTWTh 9:00am - 3:50pm
Max. Seats: 21
Faculty: David Maquiling

Step into the heart of Hollywood with an unparalleled filmmaking experience and walk in the footsteps of cinematic giants at USC and NBCUniversal. 

This summer, NBCUniversal and the USC School of Cinematic Arts—two legendary pillars of the entertainment industry—are teaming up to offer a course that will ignite your creative passion and elevate your filmmaking skills.

Course Overview

This course is a hands-on, immersive dive into the entire filmmaking process. You’ll master visual storytelling, character development, and cinematic expression while honing the collaborative skills needed to work with cast and crew.

Three days a week, you’ll be in class at the spectacular School of Cinematic Arts complex on the USC campus, where you’ll expand your skills for telling great stories, creating strong characters, and communicating your vision with sophisticated cinematic language.  On the fourth day of the week, you’ll journey to NBCUniversal—the birthplace of iconic films like Jaws, Back to the Future, Jurassic Park, Oppenheimer, and Wicked—and immerse yourself in the artistry and craftsmanship that power Hollywood’s most successful films.  From production design to post-production, you’ll gain insider access to the departments that bring blockbusters to life, learning directly from leading industry professionals who’ve shaped films like The Fast and the Furious, Green Book, Get Out, and Despicable Me.

Course Objectives

The centerpiece of this course is the extraordinary opportunity to shoot a short film on the iconic NBCUniversal back lot. Working in creative teams, you’ll experience every step of filmmaking—from pitching and casting to shooting on location and designing your soundtracks. This is your chance to make a film with the discipline and creativity required to thrive in the film and television industry.

In addition to the group projects, each student will write and direct two individual films at USC, allowing you to develop your unique voice as a cinematic storyteller. With access to USC’s state-of-the-art equipment, including digital cameras, sound kits, lighting packages, AVID editing suites, and our extensive film library, you’ll have everything you need to bring your vision to life.

Additional Information

  • All projects are created outside of scheduled class time.
  • Additional tutorials may be offered beyond regular class hours.
  • Course dates and times are subject to change.
  • The USC SCA Summer Program enforces a strict ban on the use of prop weapons.
  • This 8-unit program consists of two 4-unit courses: CNTV 405: Studio Producing and Directing and CTPR 460: Film Business Procedures and Distribution.

Join us this summer in the USC NBCUniversal Producing and Directing Class, and prepare to be inspired, challenged, and transformed as you unleash your potential as a visionary storyteller and a groundbreaking filmmaker. This is your chance to learn from the best, create unforgettable films, and take your first steps toward creating an amazing career.

Instructor:  David Maquiling