Scripting Uplifting TV

January 2025

With a nearly three-to-one ratio between students and full-time employees, BYU Broadcasting gives students a wealth of opportunities for hands-on, real-world training in media and entertainment.

BYU Broadcasting created an initiative called the Content Development and Writing Program—a student “writer’s room” led by professional television writers.

“We’re developing future writers who use their double heritage to incorporate faith into scripted content in ways that are organic and earned,” says Andra Duke, head of content at BYUtv. “We also hope to arm them with the tools they can use to navigate the greater television industry and bring their primary identity as children of God comfortably with them.”

The program helps students develop entertaining content that explores meaningful themes through positive and authentic depictions of people of faith. At BYUtv this inspiring learning happens in a setting where industry professionals mentor these promising writers.

“I’m not just representing myself when I’m writing for BYUtv,” says student Leif Jorgensen, a writer in the program. “I’m representing people from many different cultures and religions that all want television that they can enjoy with their family. The quality of my work goes up when I’m actively involving God in the process.”