ENMU adding film major in fall semester

The Eastern New Mexico University Regents approved a new film major that will have 33 core classes in its curriculum Saturday during a regular board meeting.

Students can enroll in the degree program in the fall.

Robert Vartabedian, ENMU vice president for academic affairs, said the new major in digital cinema arts will be taught by current faculty members and there will be no new additional staff members hired.

“We’ve been working on this proposal for three years,” Vartabedian said. “Faculty saw a need. There is student interest and there are grants available along with the governor’s film initiative. We have received inquiries. Faculty members felt so strongly that they volunteered their services.”

Some of the classes required will be beginning television production, workshop in playwriting and the motion picture.

ENMU professor of art Greg Erf said the project is in line with Gov. Bill Richardson’s film initiative.

Regents also approved a five-year capital projects plan to renovate several ENMU buildings.

Among those buildings are the music, technology, natatorium, university theater, computer center and college of business buildings, along with the De Baca Residence Hall.