About
SADAH's programs require all students to have a laptop computer equipped with and capable of running any necessary software. SADAH considers a laptop an essential tool for total participation in classes and content.
SADAH faculty determine the hardware and software requirements annually to ensure students purchase the most up-to-date technology conducive to participating in the curriculum.
Choosing a Laptop
Below are the hardware options that SADAH suggests when deciding on a new laptop. These computers are best for overall use, depending on your area of focus.
Your anticipated major may require a laptop or computer with higher specifications. Before purchasing, check the recommended specifications for your anticipated major.
If you already own a computer with the minimum specifications, you are encouraged to use it for your Foundations courses. Plan to purchase a new computer when you enter your second year, meeting the specifications of your anticipated program of study.
Software
Students are required to have the software below installed on their laptops. Departments requiring any additional specialized software will communicate with students.
Hardware
Department
Art BA
Art BFA
Ceramics
Fiber Arts and Weaving
Metals and Jewelry
Painting and Drawing
Photography
Printmaking
Sculpture
Art BS
Art Education Licensure
Art History BA
Foundations
Graphic Design BFA
Suggested Specifications
Operating System (OS)
MacOS
Storage (GB)
512GB
Screen Size (IN)
13”
Random Access Memory (RAM)
32GB
Graphics Memory (VRAM)
6GB
Processor (CPU)
M3 pro or Intel 13th Gen i7 / i9
Required Specifications
Operating System (OS)
MacOS or Windows 11
Storage (GB)
512GB
Screen Size (IN)
13”
Random Access Memory (RAM)
16GB
Graphics Memory (VRAM)
4GB
Processor (CPU)
M3 pro or Intel 13th Gen i5
Department
Architectural Design BFA
Suggested Specifications
Operating System (OS)
Windows 11 Pro
Storage (GB)
1TB Internal + external SSD
Screen Size (IN)
16” FHD + auxiliary monitor
Random Access Memory (RAM)
32GB
Graphics Memory (VRAM)
12GB GDDR6
Processor (CPU)
Intel 13th Gen i7 / i9
Required Specifications
Operating System (OS)
Windows 11 or MacOS
Storage (GB)
512GB
Screen Size (IN)
16” FHD
Random Access Memory (RAM)
16GB
Graphics Memory (VRAM)
6GB GDDR6
Processor (CPU)
Intel 13th Gen i5 or Mac pro
Department
Industrial Design BS
Suggested Specifications
Operating System (OS)
MacOS
Storage (GB)
512GB
Screen Size (IN)
16”
Random Access Memory (RAM)
36GB
Graphics Memory (VRAM)
6GB
Processor (CPU)
M3 pro or Intel 13th Gen i7 / i9
Required Specifications
Operating System (OS)
MacOS or Windows 11
Storage (GB)
512GB
Screen Size (IN)
16”
Random Access Memory (RAM)
16GB
Graphics Memory (VRAM)
4GB
Processor (CPU)
M3 pro or Intel 13th Gen i5
Software
|
Required Departments |
Software |
Details |
|
All Departments |
Microsoft 365 |
Provided by JMU |
|
Foundations |
Adobe Creative Cloud |
|
|
Architectural Design |
Adobe Creative Cloud |
|
|
Graphic Design |
Adobe Creative Cloud |
|
|
Industrial Design |
Adobe Creative Cloud |
|
