EXECUTIVE PROGRAM FAQs

How do I contact Act One | Executive Program?
Act One can be reached at 2690 North Beachwood Dr., 1st Floor, Hollywood, CA 90068. You can also email us at executive@actoneprogram.com or call us at (323) 464-1324.

Can I contact Pepperdine University with questions about the Executive Program?
All questions concerning the Executive Program must be directed to Act One. Although we enjoy a strong relationship with Pepperdine University, Act One is exclusively responsible for addressing all correspondence concerning the Executive Program.

Are the continuing education credits from Pepperdine transferable?
Whether the continuing education unit (CEU) credits from Pepperdine University can be used towards an academic degree at another institution is entirely subject to the approval of the university or college that would issue the degree. However, we have seen several institutions approve the transfer of credits. For more information about the CEU credits please email us .

What kind of applicants are you looking for?
The Executive Program seeks highly-motivated Christians with exceptional creative and business skills, who are passionate about entertainment and about their faith. We seek the kind of people that Hollywood is attracted to -- intelligent and funny; ambitious and resourceful; well-educated yet street-smart. Special consideration will be given to MBA, JD or film school students from prestigious institutions already in, or soon to enter, the work force. We also accept applications from young professionals with proven success in media-related fields, now hoping to break into the business side of Hollywood.

How are candidates chosen?
Through a highly-competitive selection process, 20 - 25 exceptional men and women will be chosen based on their academic and professional accomplishments, as well as their skills, enthusiasm, and character – the best of the best, for whom a career in Hollywood would be a dream come true.

Why do you need my resume / future plans?
Act One only accepts applicants who are able to commit themselves to a career in the mainstream entertainment industry. Because the program size is limited, we must consider factors that may affect your ability to pursue this career. (Please note that Act One does not discriminate based on Christian denomination, age, gender, race/ethnicity, or disability.)

How broadly do you define the term “entertainment executive”?
We are primarily looking for candidates who aspire to strategic, decision-making roles in film & TV, including but not limited to talent and literary agents; creative, development, marketing & production executives; studio & network producers and executives; as well as entertainment attorneys.

How are students matched with available internships?
Act One works closely with selected candidates and employers to ensure the internship experience is mutually beneficial. Employers are given an opportunity to review applicants’ qualifications and may conduct interviews before acceptance is issued.

Will my internship lead to a job?
Internships can lead to paid positions after the program, but this should not be an expectation. Several students participating in previous years were offered jobs by their internship employers. This is one of the main reasons that preference is given to those candidates already living in Los Angeles (or prepared to move) who are best able to take advantage of these employment opportunities.

Do I need to have experience working in the entertainment industry to apply?
Previous experience in the entertainment industry is not a requirement for admission, but it is an asset. The Executive Program seeks candidates who show a strong desire to work in the Hollywood industry, which can be shown by previous experience. However, the Executive Program is also well-suited for professionals in career transition looking to move into the media and entertainment fields.

Can I work at a non-industry job while attending the program?
We do not recommend trying to hold down any outside jobs for the duration of the program. The need to work during the program may affect your chances of being accepted. Students should expect to put in at least 20-30 hours per week at the arranged Internships. Classes will likely comprise a minimum 6 - 10 hours per week, with several hours of homework in addition.

Can I be admitted to the Program if I already have an internship (or employment)?
It is possible to attend the program if you have already secured an entertainment internship or job as long as your employer agrees to accommodate the training course schedule. When filling out your application, please attach a description of your job responsibilities as well as a brief profile of the company you are working for.

How much will the program cost me?
Tuition for the 12-week program is $2995, in addition to a $50 application fee.

Why does Act One cost so much?
As a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, Act One is funded primarily through grants and donations. The tuition covers less than one-quarter of the actual cost of taking on a new student.

What additional costs should I anticipate during the month?
Out-of-town students should expect to spend between $700 and $1700 for housing per month and from $500 to $800 for car rental.

Does Act One provide financial aid?
Partial scholarships may be available for students in genuine need (“Genuine need” implies that participation in the program is contingent on a scholarship). Please keep in mind that the need for financial aid may affect your chances of being accepted.

Does Act One provide housing during the program?
Students are responsible for arranging their own housing for the duration of the program. Oakwood corporate housing in Burbank offers a discount to Act One students (Information is provided upon acceptance). Many out-of-town students arrange to room with fellow students. (Accepted candidates will have the opportunity to coordinate their housing plans with other students and the alumni community before the program starts.)

What kind of transportation is available in the area?
Because mass transit options are limited in Hollywood, out-of-town students are advised to make other arrangements for the program. Many drive their cars here or arrange to carpool with other students (Accepted candidates will have the opportunity to coordinate plans with other students before the program starts). Enterprise Rent-a-car offers a discount to Act One students. (Information will be provided upon acceptance.)

Will students have access to computer and printer facilities?
Out-of-town students are advised to bring their own computers and printers. Act One will have limited computer and printing available during business hours.

How much homework will students be assigned?
The amount of homework will vary week to week, ranging from 2-8 hours.

Can I take courses without being admitted as a student?
No. You must be admitted to the Executive Program to participate in the classes.

Does the Executive Program offer classes at other times of the year? In other cities?
Presently, the program is only offered once a year, during the summer, and only in Los Angeles.

What if English is not my first language?
Since all coursework is conducted in English, it is important that students are able to communicate well in English, both verbally and in writing. If your native language is not English, an in-person or phone interview will be required.

Are foreigners able to apply?
Non-U.S. residents are welcome to apply. However, if accepted into the program non-U.S. residents must secure a student or working Visa. Although we will provide an acceptance letter, Act One does not have the resources to assist in the pursuit of Visas. Preference will be given to those students who are able to remain in the U.S. after the program, or who show a likelihood of success in the mainstream entertainment industry of their home countries.

Are some parts of the application weighed more heavily than others?
No one criterion is the deciding factor in selecting candidates for the program. The essays, however, should receive special attention. The Admissions Committee takes extra care in evaluating your essays as an expression of your preparation, Christian commitment, and your aspirations for participating in the program.

Do you accept applications by fax or email?
No. You must mail applications, either by USPS or another carrier (FedEx, UPS, etc.).

Can I still submit my application after March 14th?
After March 14th we begin rolling addmission, but we do accept and consider applications received after March 14 on a space-available basis only. Late applications are evaluated in the order that they are received. Please return to the Apply Now page of our website periodically to see if space in the program is still available.

Will submitting my application after March 14th hurt my chances for admission?
Preference in admission and financial aid is given to those who meet the deadline, but your application will still be given serious consideration as long as space in the program remains available.

How competitive is the application process?
Very competitive. Only the top applicants are accepted to the program.

For all other questions, please contact executive@actoneprogram.com.