Computer Requirements - Fine Arts

COMPUTER REQUIREMENTS: FINE ARTS

The Department of Fine Arts in the College of Visual and Performing Arts at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth uses Apple computers for all Fine Arts 2D and 3D majors. Students are not required to purchase a laptop computer for their freshman year or first-year studio courses. By the end of the sophomore year, however, all Fine Arts students are required to purchase a MacBook Pro laptop computer for junior-year coursework.

Owning or leasing a laptop computer will provide more time to complete assignments and collaborate with fellow students while developing expertise with technology. The Dartmouth and New Bedford campus facilities of CVPA are currently equipped with Apple technology and software. The laptop requirement insures that all students will be able to work on assignments outside of the classroom or studio.

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, 15” or larger.
• 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 (standard feature on Macs)
• Adaptor for a VGA connection to a projector.

Note: For University pricing, please visit the U$AVE site at www.usave.umassp.edu

Software

Creative Suite Design Premium, CS 5 and Windows Professional/ Office Suite are required and optimized for the Intel-based machines. This software package includes Microsoft Word, Excel, Photoshop, PowerPoint, and the Safari browser. Most University buildings have wifi capabilities to retain files of images of artwork, update their resume, and store written materials and PowerPoints necessary for in-class presentations.

For additional information Star Store computer technician Paula Erenberg Medeiros, perenberg@umassd.edu can assist you further.