One of the best ways to launch a T.V. writing career is to participate in a T.V. writing program from one of the major television networks. These programs typically give you a period of intense instruction and pair you with working writers and producers. The goal is to launch your writing career, and give the network a new, qualified, writer. You may even get your first T.V. show written, produced, and aired.
1. The CBS Writer’s Mentoring Program has graduated 70 students, 30 of whom have gone on to have TV writing careers. They are currently accepting applications for the next round, and the deadline is May 15th, 2015. Learn more.
2. NBCUniversal’s Writers on the Verge is a 12 week intensive program with one goal: The get you ready to be a staff writer for a TV show. Applications open up May 1st, 2015. Learn more here.
3. The Disney | ABC Writing Program pays writers $50,000, places you on the writing staff for a T.V. show, and gives you access to network executives. The creator’s of Breaking Bad, The Killing, and Mad Men all graduated from this program. Applications open in May. Learn more.
4. The HBOAccess program pairs you with a network executive, with the goal of developing an original pilot and being placed as a staff writer. Applications for this year have passed already, but they may open up again next year. Learn more.
5. The Warner Brother’s Television Writer’s Workshop selects 10 writers every year to study intensively in their program, with the goal of being placed as a staff writer on the T.V. show. Applications open May 1st, 2015. Learn more.
6. The Fox Writer’s Intensive is a 5 month program that meets twice a week. They give you lectures from established T.V. writers, showrunners, executives, and producers. It is not a paid opportunity, but it is designed to work around normal work schedules. Applications open in September. Learn more.
7. The Nickelodeon Writing Program is a year long program that places you in the middle of the action. You’ll “work in writers’ rooms, attend storyboard pitches, show tapings and more.” Plus, accepted writers will get paid a salary. Applications open on January 1st. Learn more.
