Film Production, Associate of Applied Science

School of Applied Technologies (AT)

The Film Production A.A.S. degree is designed as a four-term cohort program. The Film Technician and Post-Production Technician certificates are embedded in the first 3 terms of the degree; terms 4 and 5 present more specialized topics including directing and advanced prop and set fabrication.  Students completing the degree are well-suited for employment in one or more “below the line” film craft areas, including art, hair, make-up, wardrobe, craft services, grip, electric, sound, locations, production office or post-production.  Students may also choose to transfer to a 4-year program.

See Recommended Sequence of Courses

Educational Option Information

• This educational option is an Associate of Applied Science degree.
• This educational option can be completed Part-Time or Full Time.  A full-time student can complete this program in 5 terms.
• This educational option is designed for Immediate employment and transfer into a baccalaureate program.
• This educational option can be started Any term.
• Primary course location: Advanced Technology Center. 

Special requirements:

• Should be able to lift 30 pounds.

Additional tools or supplies required:

There is a $30 tool fee for the Fabrication for Film course (Film 2001).

Approximate Costs of this Educational Option

• Cost of Attendance
• Tuition
• Books
• Program and Course Fees

Financial Aid Considerations

• This is a financial aid eligible program.
  • Direct Subsidized Loans: 150 percent rule
  • Some courses are not eligible for Financial Aid. Please check the list here when considering a course.

Educational Opportunities

Students completing the first term of this degree will have also completed the first term of the CNM Film Technician Certificate of Completion, and Post-Production Technician Certificate of Completion. 

Many of the courses in this program are transferable and some may be applied to four-year degree programs at other institutions. CNM currently has transfer agreements with many colleges and universities in New Mexico and elsewhere.

The Associate of Applied Science Degree transfers all credits to the Eastern New Mexico University Bachelors of Applied Arts and Sciences (B.A.A.S.) degree.  Many courses may also transfer into the B.A.A.S. Film Concentration.  Contact the School of Applied Technologies for more information.

Employment Opportunities

Graduates from the Film Production A.A.S. degree will be prepared for entry-level crew positions in motion pictures, television and electronic media production. The Film Program is offered in collaboration with the New Mexico Film Office and IATSE Local 480.

Gainful Employment information is available from Job Connection Services.

Ten Year Rule for CTE Courses

Career and technical education courses in this program will qualify for credit for a period of ten academic years. Due to changing technologies, trends, and professional demands, courses completed ten or more years in the past will satisfy program requirements only if they are approved by the instructional school in which they were offered. Cohorted programs may have additional restrictions.