Required Computer
This program requires all students to have a laptop computer equipped with and capable of running the required software. VCUarts considers a computer to be an essential tool for full participation in the curriculum.
Already own a computer?
If you have a computer that meets the following minimum specifications, then you are encouraged to use it.
| Platform | MAC | PC |
| Age | no more than 3 years old | no more than 3 years old |
| Form Factor | Laptop | Laptop |
| Operating System | macOS 15 | Windows 11 (64 bit) |
| Processor | Apple M1 | Intel i7 |
| Memory | 16 GB | 16 GB |
| Storage | 256 GB | 256 GB (solid state drive) |
| Webcam | Built-in or external with built in microphone | Built-in or external with built in microphone |
| Wireless | Wi-Fi capability | Wi-Fi capability |
| Backup | Any backup method of choice including cloud-based services like Google Drive. | Any backup method of choice including cloud-based services like Google Drive. |
Shopping for a new computer?
If you do not have a computer that meets the minimum specifications listed above, then you should purchase a computer that meets the minimum specifications listed below. Purchasing a computer with the minimum specifications listed below will meet the defined needs of your program.
The last row in the table is a recommended purchase that is intended to be a balance of price and performance; but there may be less expensive brands and/or models that meet the minimum specifications; so you should not feel obligated to purchase that specific computer.
If you wish to exceed the specifications of the recommended purchase, then the general guideline is to set your budget, and only purchase as much computer as your budget allows. All modern computers are quite powerful. Please do not overspend.
| Platform | MAC | PC |
| Form Factor | Laptop | Laptop |
| Operating System | macOS 15 | Windows 11 (64 bit) |
| Processor | Apple M3 | Intel i7 |
| Memory | 16 GB | 16 GB |
| Storage | 256 GB | 256 GB (solid state drive) |
| Graphics | — | Discrete (not integrated) |
| Webcam | Built-in or external with built in microphone | Built-in or external with built in microphone |
| Wireless | Wi-Fi capability | Wi-Fi capability |
| Backup | Any backup method of choice including cloud-based services like Google Drive. | Any backup method of choice including cloud-based services like Google Drive. |
| Recommended Purchase | Apple MacBook Air 13–inch M3 chip 16 GB memory 512 GB storage |
Alienware m16 R2 Ultra 7 processor 16 GB memory 512 GB storage NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 |
Where To Buy
We recommend that you investigate all possible purchase options, but make sure that you are receiving a price that is equal to, or less than the education pricing offered by the manufacturer:
Apple Education Store
Dell Student Discounts
Online stores occasionally have sales that are even lower than the standard educational pricing. Make sure you check pricing at B&H, Best Buy, Amazon, and others.
Ramtech is the official university computer store. They are familiar with our requirements, and are available to assist you with making a compatible purchase. Call 804-828-8324, or visit in person (1111 West Broad Street).
Required Software
Vectorworks — free download
ETC EOS Nomad — free download
Suggested Software
Microsoft Office — free download via VCU
Adobe Creative Cloud — free subscription via VCU