Computer Requirements - Art Education

COMPUTER REQUIREMENTS: ART EDUCATION

The Department of Art Education uses PC and Apple computers for all media operations. Students entering the Art Education major are required to have a laptop computer, including students transferring to UMass Dartmouth from other institutions.

Students are not required to purchase a laptop computer for their freshman year or for first-year studio courses. Beginning in the sophomore year, however, Art Education majors are required to use laptops in their required and elective art education courses. Art Education students choose 15 credits of a studio concentration and should consult the laptop requirement for the department of the chosen studio area.

While students may use PCs, the Dartmouth and New Bedford campus facilities of CVPA are currently equipped with Apple technology and software. Compatibility issues are greatly reduced if students use MacBook Pro computers.

Hardware

Students wishing to configure personal computers should follow these guidelines:

• Screen size:
  It is recommended that students purchase the largest screen size that can be afforded. Larger screens facilitate higher productivity though work can be accomplished on smaller screens.
• Connections:
  All machines need to have an Ethernet connection.
• RAM:
  There is never enough. We recommend at least eight gigabytes of RAM.
• Hard Disc Space:
  Minimum 500 GB. You can always add external hard drives or portable storage devices as needed.
• Optical Drive:
  Select a drive that allows you to burn DVDs. This will be helpful in developing portfolios and backing up large animation or video files.
• Camera for Skype video conferencing. (standard feature on Macs)
• Adaptor for a VGA connection to a projector.

Note: For University pricing, please visit the UMass Dartmouth Apple Education Store.
Adobe Creative Suite (CS6) software is available for a discounted price when puchased with a computer from the Apple Store.

Software

Windows Professional/Office Suite is required for PowerPoint presentations and editing cabilities. Adobe CS6 Design Standard is recommended for students who may also be enrolled in Graphic Design coursework. This software package enables students to interact with the software programs used in the College to submit assignments, participate in collaborative projects, and share work with instructors and fellow students.