Graphic Design

Do I have to buy a brand-new computer, or can I use what I have?

If you have a current computer, you may be able to use it for your first year, then purchase a new computer next summer once you have a better idea of what your needs and preferences are.

Please consider the following:

• Computers need to be healthy, durable, and should be able to run a fairly robust program called After Effects for ART 1604: Principles of 4D Art & Design. Check system requirements for After Effects on the web.
• To be successful in your first-year courses, your computer should have a minimum of:
  • 16GB RAM, and
  • Core i7, M1, or M2 processor
  • Usable empty storage space of 256 GB, not the total storage space or more.
• If your current computer only has 8 GB of RAM with an M1/Intel processor, you may be able to get by but your computer will struggle/fail with tasks.
• We do not recommend trying to use a computer below these specs.

If you are purchasing a new computer:

• It would be wise to get the new Macs with the Apple M2 chip (or higher).
• Ideally 14-inch or 16-inch version.
• Do not get a MacBook Air.
• Get AppleCare+!

Do I really have to use a Mac? Can I use a PC instead?

Digital content creation touches every aspect of what we do in our school, whether you are a graphic designer, studio artist, or a creative tech student. Performance matters more than brand. By and large, a MacBook Pro will outlast a comparable PC by several years.

If you would like to use a PC instead of a Mac, please consider the following:

• All instruction in our studio-based classes will assume that students are using Macs.
• Students choosing to use a PC take responsibility for understanding the nuances between operating systems.
• Faculty will not amend curriculum to accommodate PC users.