Writing the Episodic Series Television Pilot

Harvard Extension School

CREA E-164

Section 1

CRN 17355

View Course Details
In this course, students dive deep into the craft of writing a compelling television pilot for an episodic series. With focus on structure, character development, and pacing, the course guides students through the essentials of creating an engaging story that sets the foundation for a successful television series. We explore the unique demands of episodic storytelling, including how to establish tone, create cliffhangers, and develop multi-dimensional characters over time. Through analysis of iconic television pilots like Breaking Bad, Modern Family, and Cheers and hands-on writing exercises, students create their own pilot episode. In workshop, students experience hands-on writing assignments, the rewrite process, and pitching ideas as they refine their voice. Students also have the opportunity to visit and study in Hollywood, the television capital, where they meet with distinguished scripted television writers, participate in a writing workshop, and visit the set or offices of a current television production.

Instructor Info

Hugh Fink, BFA

Writer and Producer


Meeting Info

Sa 12:00pm - 8:00pm (12/6 - 12/6)
Su 12:00pm - 4:00pm (12/7 - 12/7)
Th 7:40pm - 9:40pm (9/2 - 12/20)
F 9:00pm - 11:59pm (12/5 - 12/5)

Participation Option: On Campus or Online Synchronous

Deadlines

Last day to register: August 28, 2025

Prerequisites

A beginning-level creative writing course or permission of the instructor.

Notes

This course meets via web conference. Students must attend and participate at the scheduled meeting time. See minimum technology requirements. Along with the web-conference meetings, this course also includes an intensive—and mandatory—weekend residency in Los Angeles, California. Please see syllabus for details about the weekend meeting locations. Students must be present for the entire weekend session in Los Angeles, California to earn credit for the course. Tuition does not include hotel accommodations, transportation, or meals for the weekend session. Note that students will also be responsible for paying for tickets for additional scheduled events (for example, a studio tour or a visit to a comedy club); see syllabus for details. nternational Students see important visa information.

All meeting times listed in Eastern time.

All Sections of this Course

CRN Section # Participation Option(s) Instructor Section Status Meets Term Dates
17355 1 On Campus, Online Synchronous Hugh Fink Open Sa 12:00pm - 8:00pm
Su 12:00pm - 4:00pm
Th 7:40pm - 9:40pm
F 9:00pm - 11:59pm
Sep 2 to Dec 20