UNM Business School, Film Department launch MBA for Professionals in Film and Digital Arts

The University of New Mexico Anderson School of Management has partnered with the UNM Film & Digital Arts Department to provide a new MBA track focused on film and digital arts beginning in August 2022. The MBA for Professionals program, which also allows early career professionals to pursue tracks in education, health care, finance and general management, is accepting applications for Fall 2022 with a deadline of June 1.

Students admitted to the new film and digital arts track will complete the Anderson MBA for Professionals coursework along with 12 credit hours from the UNM Film & Digital Arts Department, including a 10-day immersive experience working on a summer production, “The Show.” Other film and digital arts courses will include The Business and Law of Film and New Media, History of Film, Horror Film, Alfred Hitchcock and Topics in Production.

James Stone, chair of UNM’s Department of Film & Digital Arts, commented, “By working on The Show—our large-scale, hands-on moviemaking class—MBA students will participate in and understand the workings of a movie set. They will acquire practical knowledge about the film industry that will give them a significant advantage in the business world.”

The MBA for Professionals program is a part-time, evening program designed for working professionals with one or more years of work experience. Students will be able to progress through the program at their chosen pace, focusing on one or two courses during each cycle. Coaching from industry professionals is integral to this program. Coaches provide cohort guidance and mentorship, helping students connect the business curriculum with their career goals in each professional track. 

“Anderson is providing the business fundamentals and hands-on learning experiences that are essential for emerging leaders in film and digital media,” said Mitzi Montoya, dean of the Anderson School. “New Mexico continues to be among the most competitive states for film and TV production. This creative partnership with the UNM College of Fine Arts will allow us to develop the leadership talent that’s needed to support continued growth of this industry in New Mexico.”