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VPA LA Semester

The VPA LA Semester is an immersive professional development program that provides students with a unique opportunity to work as interns in Los Angeles while taking academic courses taught by industry professionals.

The program is designed to broaden students’ understanding of career opportunities and gain skills to network and succeed professionally.

The fall semester focuses on art and design (appropriate for seniors majoring in animation, illustration, design and studio arts) while the spring semester focuses on entertainment (appropriate for seniors majoring in drama or film; juniors or seniors majoring in communication and rhetorical studies; and juniors majoring in music industry or sound recording and technology). Regardless of which semester you choose, you will be able to meet professional guest panelists, attend events, take engaging courses taught by active faculty and demystify LA as a city and an industry.

Application Deadlines

Spring 2026 Semester: September 15, 2025
(Drama, film, communication and rhetorical studies, music industry, and sound recording technology majors)

Fall 2026 Semester: February 15, 2026
(Animation, illustration, design, studio arts majors)

Apply now

About the Program

Admissions and Financial Information

The VPA LA Semester is open to Syracuse University students and students from other colleges and universities.

Review admissions and financial information
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Curriculum and Internships

Whether you study in the fall or the spring, the VPA LA Semester offers classes tailored to your major and taught by industry professionals. Internships provide you with real-world experiences and valuable insights into career paths.

Learn about the curriculum and internships
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Location

The VPA LA Semester is part of Syracuse University Dick Clark Los Angeles Program located at Syracuse University's center in the North Hollywood (NoHo) Arts District. The center includes state-of-the-art space for offices and classrooms as well as a studio and student lounge. It is also home to Newhouse LA and administrative offices for admissions, development, alumni engagement and career services.

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Program Director and Faculty

Our knowledgeable program director and renowned professional faculty are here to support you through your semester in Los Angeles.

Meet our program director and faculty
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Student Life

In addition to coursework and your internship, the VPA LA Semester offers many social and cultural opportunities to enjoy. This section also outlines housing and transportation.

Learn more about student life
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Get Involved in VPA LA

It’s easy to see the advantages a semester in Los Angeles brings to our students. Help make their experience unforgettable by becoming an alumni mentor or giving to the VPA LA fund.

Learn how to get involved
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Contact Us

VPA LA Semester
Syracuse University Dick Clark Los Angeles Program
5250 Lankershim Blvd, Suite 400
North Hollywood, CA 91601
vpala@syr.edu

Follow us on Instagram at su_vpala.