International Applications Deadline extended to April 1st, 11:59 PM PST Due to popular demand, the deadline for international applications has been extended to April 1st, 11:59 PM PST.

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.

Documentary Filmmaking - 4 Units

Units: 4
Student Level: All

Jun 23 - Aug 1 Apply
In-Person (Ages 16+)
Schedule: Tue/Thu 9:00am - 12:50pm
Max. Seats: 21
Faculty: Doug Blush

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Create Impactful Documentaries That Resonate

Step into the captivating world of non-fiction storytelling with our Documentary Filmmaking course—a dynamic journey where you’ll master the art of creating compelling documentaries that inform, inspire, and leave a lasting impression on audiences.

Inspired by acclaimed films like Three Identical Strangers, An Inconvenient Truth, Free Solo, and March of the Penguins, this course provides the tools, techniques, and hands-on experience needed to bring your unique vision to life.

Course Description
In this immersive course, you won’t just study documentary filmmaking—you’ll live it. Through interactive lectures, demonstrations, and invaluable insights from seasoned industry professionals, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to craft authentic and impactful non-fiction films.

Most importantly, every student will write, direct, and edit their own 10-minute documentary film, putting theory into practice and turning creative concepts into reality.

What You’ll Experience

• Hands-On Filmmaking: From initial idea development to the final edit, you’ll actively engage in every stage of the filmmaking process—conceiving, scripting, directing, producing, and editing your documentary.
• Crafting Your Vision: Learn to develop a cohesive visual style, design an engaging audio track, and elevate your storytelling with professional-grade equipment and resources.
• Real-World Insight: Gain unparalleled access to guest speakers—award-winning filmmakers who provide insider knowledge of the documentary film industry and guidance for navigating its competitive landscape.
• Pathways to Success: Join the legacy of USC documentary filmmakers who’ve gone on to win prestigious awards, including Emmys and Student Academy Awards.

Course Objectives

• Idea Development: Research and develop topical ideas that resonate with audiences and spark conversation.
• Directing & Producing: Hone the skills required to direct and produce impactful non-fiction films with a clear narrative vision.
• Scripting Non-Fiction: Learn to write structured, compelling scripts that effectively communicate your story.
• Visual & Audio Mastery: Create a unified visual style and craft a sound design that deepens your film’s emotional and narrative impact.
• Marketplace Knowledge: Understand the documentary marketplace, positioning your work for festivals, distribution, and success.

Notable Alumni Success
USC’s documentary filmmaking program has a rich history of producing award-winning talent, including:

• Patricia Thio: Emmy Award winner (using a film created in this class).
• Bill Couturie: Emmy Award winner.
• Ben Shedd: Emmy Award winner.
• Kennedy Wheatley: Student Academy Award winner.

Additional Information

• All projects are completed outside of scheduled class time.
• Tutorials and workshops are available beyond scheduled class dates and times.
• Course dates and times are subject to change.
• SCA enforces a strict ban on the use of prop weapons during the Summer Program.

Leave your mark on the world of non-fiction filmmaking and transform your passion for storytelling into documentaries that create change, open hearts, and inspire action.

Instructor: Doug Blush