Required Computer Purchase

Prior to the beginning of the first semester of the freshman year, all Visual Communication Design and Photography majors are required to purchase a Macintosh laptop computer and specific graphic software as described below. The computer and software will be used in subsequent VCD courses throughout the remainder of the degree program.

Minimum Hardware

Apple MacBook Pro 

  • Apple M1 chip with 8‑core CPU, 8‑core GPU, and 16‑core Neural Engine.
  • 16GB unified memory
  • 256GB SSD storage
  • 13-inch Retina display with True Tone
  • Backlit Magic Keyboard - US English
  • Touch Bar and Touch ID
  • Two Thunderbolt / USB 4 ports

 

Contact the Kent State University Bookstore at their website or by phone: (330) 672-2762 for education pricing and special offers. 

The 16GB unified memory model is available as a configurable option and usually ships within 5-7 business days.

*Flash Technology Center offers discounted Apple hardware pricing.

Peripherals

  • 1 TB External Hard drive (USB or Thunderbolt)
  • 2-3 USB Jump Drives (at least 8 GB each)

Software Specifications

As of January 2018, Kent State students are able to purchase Adobe Creative Cloud licenses for only $75 per year. Their current plan for the same package ranges from $240 to $360 per year. We could not be more excited to offer this incredible savings to our students! 

To purchase the suite please go to http://software.kent.edu.

  • 1st Semester Freshman require: Adobe Creative Cloud for Students 

Questions regarding the VCD required Computer Purchase Program should be directed to cci@kent.edu. 

*Note that the new Solid State Drives that come on the Retinal Display computers DO qualify. Apple will release newer versions of MacBook Pro products over time. Students need only obtain a computer that meets or exceeds the specifications listed at the time the student enters the program.

**Kent State University has no control over Adobe software costs. All Adobe Prices are subject to change and do not include sales tax. The School of VCD attempts to make software and hardware as affordable as possible

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