School of Visual Studies

The School of Visual Studies requires all students to have a laptop computer equipped with and capable of running the software listed below. While students will not be denied attendance based on an inability to possess a computer, the SVS does consider a computer to be an essential tool for full participation in the curriculum.

Students Who Already Own a Laptop: We accept any laptop running a recent (less than 4 years old) MAC OS or Windows OS with: the current version of Adobe Creative Cloud, Wi-Fi capability, a webcam and microphone, Zoom video conference software, Word Processing and Presentation tools (such as Microsoft Office, Google Docs and Google Slides, or Apple Pages and Keynote), and Adobe CC computing requirements: umurl.us/AdobeCCRequirements

Students Who Are Purchasing a New Laptop: The default SVS recommendation for all students is to purchase either a new Apple MacBook Air or a new Apple MacBook Pro (or a PC laptop with comparable computing power—i.e., storage, processor, and 16GB RAM). Minimum computing needs vary by program/emphasis. Please consult the section below for more detailed information.

BA in Film Studies Production or Digital Storytelling emphasis
BA/BFA in Art (graphic design, photography, printmaking, digital workflow): These programs are encouraged to have a 13+ inch MacBook Pro meeting the above-stated minimum requirements, but with 1TB+ SSD internal storage or a supplemental external SSD drive.

BA in Art History, Film Studies or Art (BA/BFA; fibers, sculpture, ceramics, drawing and painting): These programs are recommended to have the equivalent of a new MacBook Air (or better) meeting the above-stated minimum requirements.