This minor uses QLab software for primary instruction.
An Apple computer running macOS is necessary to run QLab.

Kinetic Imaging - Sound Design Minor student computing requirements

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.

If you have a computer that meets the following minimum specifications, then you are encouraged to use it, and plan to purchase a new computer when your needs exceed its capabilities.

Platform MAC
Form Factor Laptop
Operating System macOS 15
Processor Apple M1
Memory 16 GB
Storage 256 GB
Webcam Built-in or external with built in microphone
Wireless Wi-Fi capability

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
Form Factor Laptop
Operating System macOS 15
Processor Apple M3
Memory 16 GB
Storage 256 GB
Webcam Built-in or external with built in microphone
Wireless Wi-Fi capability
Recommended Purchase Apple MacBook Air 15–inch
M3 chip
16 GB memory
512 GB storage

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

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

Suggested Software

Information about other commonly used software that is available for free through VCU, and available for free or reduced cost through publishers, is available in the Software section of the Technology Support for Students web page.

iPad with Apple Pencil

User files are often stored online in cloud based services; but as a creative professional, you are likely to have any number of files stored locally for maximum performance and accessibility. It is important that you adopt a file backup system to preserve your files in the event of a hardware failure. Information about backup options and associated costs is available in the File Backups section of the Technology Support for Students web page.