Multimedia Journalism
College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences
2026-27 Baseline Minimum System Requirements
For All Incoming Undergraduate Students
Platform
PC
Laptop (Chromebook not recommended)
Mac
Laptop (Macintosh is the preferred platform)
Operating System
Windows 11 (64-Bit)
macOS 15 or higher
Processor Speed
Intel Ultra5 or Ultra7
Apple M4 chip or higher*
*Mac: If your major requires use of a Windows based software product, please note that new Macs with the Apple M4 chip may not run the required Windows based software locally. You should only purchase an Apple M4 chip Mac if your major requires you to run a Windows based product and they either provide remote access to a Windows operating system or confirm the required software will run with an M4 chip Mac. Please check with your major before you purchase an M4 chip Mac.
Memory (RAM)
32 GB or more
32 GB or more
Storage
Minimum 1 TB SSD (Solid State Drive)
Minimum 1 TB SSD (Solid State Drive)
Webcam
Built-in or external with built in microphone (headset/earbuds recommended)
Built-in or external with built in microphone (headset/earbuds recommended)
Wireless
Wi-Fi Capable
Wi-Fi Capable
Warranty
4 Year on-site service support with accident damage coverage
4 Year on-site service support, AppleCare
Software
Software Suite*
Software Suite*
*Students are required to purchase the Incoming Undergraduate Software Bundle through the Virginia Tech Software Service Center. See the Student Software Center for more information.
Included Products: Microsoft Windows Operating System with Microsoft Office 365 Pro Plus
Platform: macOS and Windows
Eligibility: Valid while enrolled in undergraduate classes at Virginia Tech
Note: Office 365 Pro Plus can be downloaded and installed on up to five machines and Office mobile apps can be installed on up to five mobile devices.
AND
Adobe Creative Cloud is additional required software, but should NOT be purchased before attending class. CC will be purchased as part of class at a very significant discount to the student.
Backup
Any backup method of choice including cloud-based services like Microsoft OneDrive and Google Drive.
Any backup method of choice including cloud-based services like Microsoft OneDrive and Google Drive.
Additional: 6+GB Discrete Graphics strongly recommended
Contact
Blake Smith
540-231-5292
bsmith15@vt.edu