Processor (CPU)

Intel and AMD both make excellent processors that are fully capable of supporting demanding workloads. For Intel chips, we suggest a Core I5, I7, or I9 processor, 11th generation or newer. For AMD processors, look for a Ryzen 5, 7, 9, or Threadripper.

 

Memory (RAM)

 

If you are determining if your existing laptop will be compatible when you get to Drexel, you can get by with 8GB of RAM. If you are purchasing a new laptop, we highly recommend a minimum of 16GB of RAM. Please look closely at your program's minimum and recommended specs as RAM requirements vary based on software requirements.

 

Storage

 

You should look for systems with a solid-state drive (SSD) that uses an NVMe or PCIe interface. We recommend at least a 512GB SSD. If you're concerned about running out of disk space, choose a 1TB SSD. It's important to know that new Apple Macbooks can no longer be upgraded later to a larger storage capacity, so it's important to purchase the correct size from the start.

 

GPU

 

Westphal's more graphically-intense programs will benefit from having a dedicated graphics processing unit (GPU). Programs that use software to render images, models, and animations will all have higher GPU requirements.  These include our Animation, Digital Media, Game Design, Architecture, Interior Design, and Fashion Programs. Please look closely at your program's minimum and recommended specs below as some programs have compatibility requirements for Nvidia CUDA-Enabled GPUs.

Make sure to check which Operating System, Windows or MacOS, your program supports. Based on the software used in each program, some support only Windows or only MacOS, while some others support either option. This is because there are some softwares that are only available on specific operating systems.

Programs

Animation & Visual Effects

Architecture

Art History

Arts Administration & Museum Leadership

Dance & Performing Arts

Design & Merchandising

Design Research

Digital Media & Virtual Production

Digital Media (MS, PhD)

Entertainment & Arts Management

Fashion Design & Fashion Design (MS)

Film & Television

Game Design & Production

Graphic Design

Interior Architecture & Design

Interior Design

Music Industry

Photography

Product Design

Retail & Merchandising

Screenwriting & Playwriting

Television & Media Management

Urban Strategy

User Experience & Interaction Design

Undeclared Design & Media

Warranty: Keep your device up and running

You may have the option to purchase extended protection and accidental damage coverage for your device. We recommend you make sure you're covered if something goes wrong.

Work worry-free and minimize out-of-pocket repair costs with an extended warranty for hardware coverage. Get covered for things like spills, drops, and cracked screens with accidental damage protection.

Security: Keep your files safe

Losing data because of malware or a computer problem is discouraging and can set back your academic progress. You might lose months of writing, planning, creating, designing, and innovating. However, a little prevention can go a long way to avoiding this ordeal.

To help save you lots of time and aggravation, we recommend that you use a secure cloud service, such as Backblaze or Carbonite, to back up your data. Keep your files safe from malware, human error, theft, and hardware failure—if something happens to your device, you don't have to worry about losing your files.

Shopping for Discounts

Some brands offer educational discounts for students, including Apple and Dell. However, we understand that retailers like Amazon and Best Buy can sometimes offer better deals. That's why we try and offer as much information as we can regarding computer specs for each program. We suggest using the information from this page when you're ready to shop for a laptop so that you're more well informed.  It's also worth noting that certain holidays are notorious for technology discounts, including Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and the Fourth of July.

 

Accessories

Make the most of your device with these suggested accessories.

• USB-C multiport adapter
• Headset with microphone
• Bag or sleeve
• Additional power supply