southwest design of red on a yellow background

This class focuses on Media Production in the Southwest, especially New Mexico.  Students will learn about the history of film making in this region, genre conventions of films made in these locations, as well as practical film making information about production in these environments. Field trips will include famous film locations, working film studios and sets, and film offices in both Albuquerque and Santa Fe. Students will experience working as location scouts and take on considerations of film budget, set requirements, and story needs. (2024 Syllabus).

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For more information email Frances Perkins at frances.perkins@unt.  Click here for the 2025 flyer!

 

Our trip to New Mexico was one of the best experiences offered during my time as a graduate student. It gave me the practical exposure I needed to feel immersed in the industry. As a graduate student I particularly enjoyed the hands-on approach to our trip as we got to learn from industry professionals and visit actual film studios.

-Simone Obasuyi (graduate student)

Additional Testimonials

From this trip, I found great TV and film career options that are closer to home. (Ruby Edmondson, student) After going on this trip, I have definitely started thinking more about my future in film. The most interesting thing to take into consideration was New Mexico's tax incentive program. (Chloe Smith, student)

The trip that Professor Perkins put together last summer was amazing. We were able to tour sets, rental houses, movie ranches, famous NM landmarks and visit with many professionals in the business who were in production. It was a jam-packed week that the general public would not have access to. I cannot recommend this trip enough as NM has many productions in progress and Professor Perkins has the connects to make it happen. (Chris Brock, Lecturer)

The Good, the Bad, and the Freaky

This short film was pulled together in 30 minutes at Bonanza Creek Ranch in summer of 2025. Students used their phones and "quick on the draw" creativity to produce a fun and funny western. A phrase that has a lot of meaning in the short. The ranch manager was listed as Executive Producer, and she was thrilled.