Student Computer Purchasing Guide
Introduction | Recommended Hardware Specifications | Where To Purchase
Frequently Asked Questions (including Financial Aid) | Contact Information and Links
Departmental Computing Requirements:
Architecture/Interior Architecture | Landscape Architecture | Product Design | Art & Technology
Introduction
Students in the departments of Architecture, Interior Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Product Design, and Art and Technology programs are required to own personal laptops. To participate effectively in the College of Design’s computer-integrated studios and majors, these students need to have unlimited access to computer based design applications and tools while working in their studio work-spaces.
Students in other departments and programs are not required to purchase computers, however open lab-computing resources are limited, thus it is suggested that every student have access to a personal computer.
It is highly recommended that you base your hardware purchase by the requirements for your major. The majority of the CAD and rendering software required below can be run on a Windows based machine, however Adobe Creative Suite/Creative Cloud can be run in either Windows or OS X. For departments that require OS X and Windows based applications, you can purchase an Apple computer and run Windows via Boot Camp. Please review the requirements if you choose to take this route. NOTE: Apple will not support Bootcamp in the near future due to the change from Intel based chips to their new M-1 based chips.
The College of Design, Technology Services staff can help you, if you need assistance. Please open a help ticket in the UO Service Portal to ask your questions.
Recommended Hardware Specifications
The following are suggested laptop specifications for all departments:
- Screen Size:
- A 13″-15″ are best due to weight and cost but anything larger will also work.
- Central Processing Unit (CPU):
- The brains of the computer. Intel i7 with Quad Core is minimum requirement for a PC or the M1 for an Apple computer.
- Memory:
- The more the merrier! This makes the computer work faster. The minimum required is 16 GB.
- Hard Drive:
- A solid state drive (SSD) is the best for durability and speed. 256 GB is the recommended minimum, but 512GB is better.
- Graphics or Video Card (GPU):
- This, along with the CPU and memory, will determine how fast your computer can render drawings, work in Photoshop, and play games. We recommend at least 2GB, but 4GB is becoming the standard.
- For the graphic intensive majors, we DO NOT recommend an Integrated Intel graphics card as it will not work.
- USB or Bluetooth Mouse
- It is very hard to draw with a trackpad!
It is also highly recommended that students purchase the following accessories:
- 23″ – 24″ external monitor for greater screen real estate for design work.
- 1-2 Terabyte external hard drive for data backups
- VGA or DVI adapter to connect to projectors and large monitors
- USB mouse for easier manipulation of design software applications
- Surge protector
- Security locks for laptop and monitor
Please Note: The average life cycle for a laptop computer is 3-4 years. Also, computing applications and requirements per major may change over the course of a student’s college career in the College of Design. Undergraduate students should be financially prepared for the possibility of needing to replace or upgrade their initial computer purchase prior to graduation.
Where to Purchase
The University of Oregon Dell site both offer very competitive pricing for computers to accepted students. Other wise any computer store (Best Buy, OfficeMax) or web vendor (Amazon, Newegg) will offer a wide selection with decent pricing.
Software can be purchased via authorized online educational vendors such as Creation Engine, online via Amazon or Newegg, or in person at the Digital Duck in the UO Duck Store.
Departmental Computing Requirements
Departments of Architecture/Interior Architecture
Hardware:
Students enrolled in the Department of Architecture (Architecture and Interior Architecture) are required to own a personal laptop computer, external monitor, and external mouse to assist with their studies. Due to the nature of the software being used, a PC or Windows laptop from vendors such as Dell/Lenovo/Hewlett Packard is strongly encouraged.
For students who wish to purchase a MacBook Pro model from Apple, you will also need to purchase a Windows license and install it via Bootcamp if your Mac has an Intel CPU. For students who have purchased the latest models with the new M1 CPU, a virtualization program such as Parallels or VMWare Fusion will be required. Please note, the University does currently offers a High Performance Virtual Lab experience as well.
Similar to the specifications listed above, the minimum recommended laptop specs are:
- Screen Size:
- A 13″-15″ are best due to weight and cost but anything larger will also work.
- Central Processing Unit (CPU):
- The brains of the computer. Intel i7 with Quad Core is best or the M1 for an Apple computer.
- Memory:
- The more the merrier! This makes the computer work faster. We recommend 16 GB minimum.
- Hard Drive:
- A solid state drive (SSD) is the best for durability and speed. 256 GB is the recommended minimum, but 512GB is probably better.
- Graphics or Video Card (GPU):
- This, along with the CPU and memory, will determine how fast your computer can render drawings, work in Photoshop, and play games. We recommend at least 2GB, but 4GB is becoming the standard.
- Please note: A computer with just an integrated Intel graphics card will not work!
- Miscellaneous Items:
- 3 year extended warranty
- 23″ or larger external monitor
- USB or Bluetooth mouse.
- Video Adapter for external monitor
Students are expected to have a functioning data backup service such as an external hard drive or cloud based backup service.
Students farther along in their degree programs may also benefit from purchasing a secondary desktop workstation. Please consult with your professors before doing so.
Software requirements for Architecture students are as follows:
1. Adobe Creative Suite – Adobe Creative Cloud subscription.
Architecture students may be asked to use the following applications:
- Adobe Photoshop*
- Adobe Illustrator*
- Adobe InDesign*
- Adobe Acrobat® X Pro*
- Adobe Bridge*
- Adobe Media Encoder*
*This software is available for both Windows and the Mac.
2. AutoDesk Applications (AutoCAD, Revit)
AutoCAD and Revit are popular Windows based CAD and modeling software from AutoDesk. It is freely available to students at http://students.autodesk.com.
3. Rhino
Rhino for Windows is a popular Windows based rendering application that is required for first year undergraduates and Track I Master of Architecture students. Education pricing is available.
4. Microsoft Office
Currently enrolled students are eligible to download and use Office 365 from Microsoft. Office 365 provides the latest version of Office for Windows and the Mac, as well as access to unlimited storage via OneDrive for Business. For more information, please check out the following link:
https://it.uoregon.edu/about-office-365
Department of Landscape Architecture
Hardware:
Students enrolled in the Landscape Architecture are required to own a personal laptop computer, external monitor, and external mouse to assist with their studies. Due to the nature of the software being used, a PC or Windows laptop from vendors such as Dell/Lenovo/Hewlett Packard is strongly encouraged.
For students who wish to purchase a MacBook Pro model from Apple, you will also need to purchase a Windows license and install it via Bootcamp if your Mac has an Intel CPU. For students who have purchased the latest models with the new M1 CPU, a virtualization program such as Parallels or VMWare Fusion will be required. Please note, the University does currently offers a High Performance Virtual Lab experience as well.
The recommended specifications are:
- Screen Size:
- A 13″-15″ are best due to weight and cost but anything larger will also work.
- Central Processing Unit (CPU):
- The brains of the computer. Intel i7 with Quad Core is best or the M1 for an Apple computer.
- Memory:
- The more the merrier! This makes the computer work faster. We recommend 16 GB minimum.
- Hard Drive:
- A solid state drive (SSD) is the best for durability and speed. 256 GB is the recommended minimum, but 512GB is probably better.
- Graphics or Video Card (GPU):
- This, along with the CPU and memory, will determine how fast your computer can render drawings, work in Photoshop, and play games. We recommend at least 2GB, but 4GB is becoming the standard.
- Miscellaneous Items:
- 3 year extended warranty
- 23″ or larger external monitor
- USB or Bluetooth mouse.
- Video Adapter for external monitor
Software:
1. Adobe Creative Suite – Adobe Creative Cloud subscription.
Landscape Architecture students may be asked to use the following applications:
- Adobe Photoshop*
- Adobe Illustrator*
- Adobe InDesign*
- Adobe Acrobat® X Pro*
- Adobe Bridge*
- Adobe Media Encoder*
*This software is available for both Windows and the Mac.
2. AutoDesk Applications (AutoCAD, Revit)
AutoCAD and Revit are popular Windows based CAD and modeling software from AutoDesk. It is freely available to students at http://students.autodesk.com.
3. Rhino
Rhino for Windows is a popular Windows based rendering application. Education pricing is available.
4. Microsoft Office
Currently enrolled students are eligible to download and use Office 365 from Microsoft. Office 365 provides the latest version of Office for Windows and the Mac, as well as access to unlimited storage via OneDrive for Business. For more information, please check out the following link:
https://it.uoregon.edu/about-office-365
Department of Product Design
Hardware:
The Product Design program recommends a PC Windows based laptop. If an incoming student owns an Apple computer, Windows can be installed via Bootcamp assuming the appropriate specifications are met. To effectively install Bootcamp, a 500 GB or higher hard drive is recommended.
Please review the Introduction and General Hardware Specification sections above for more information.
Software:
1. Adobe Creative Suite – Adobe Creative Cloud subscription.
Product Design students may be asked to use the following applications:
- Adobe Photoshop*
- Adobe Illustrator*
- Adobe InDesign*
- Adobe Acrobat® X Pro*
- Adobe Bridge*
- Adobe Media Encoder*
*This software can be purchased for either Windows or Mac.
2. Microsoft Office
Currently enrolled students are eligible to download and use Office 365 from Microsoft. Office 365 provides the latest version of Office for Windows and the Mac, as well as access to unlimited storage via OneDrive for Business. For more information, please check out the following link:
https://it.uoregon.edu/about-office-365
3. Microsoft Windows – Windows 10 Professional 64 Bit
Used to support CAD based software used frequently in Product Design program.
Art & Technology Program
Hardware:
The Art & Technology program recommends students purchase Apple MacBook Pro laptops with the recommended specifications listed above in the General Hardware Specifications section. If Windows is required, it can be installed via Bootcamp. To effectively install Bootcamp, a 500 GB or higher hard drive is recommended.
For greater screen real estate, it is helpful if students also purchase an external monitor.
Software:
1. Adobe Creative Suite – Adobe Creative Cloud subscription.
Art and Technology students may be required to use the following applications:
- Adobe Photoshop*
- Adobe Illustrator*
- Adobe InDesign*
- Adobe Acrobat® X Pro*
- Adobe Bridge*
- Adobe Media Encoder*
- Adobe Dreamweaver*
- Adobe Flash Professional*
- Adobe After Effects*
- Adobe Premiere*
*This software can be purchased for either Windows or Mac.
2. SketchUp Pro
SketchUp Pro can be purchased at an educational discount from Google once you have obtained a University email address at http://www.sketchup.com/buy/education-licenses.
3. Microsoft Office
Currently enrolled students are eligible to download and use Office 365 from Microsoft. Office 365 provides the latest version of Office for Windows and the Mac, as well as access to unlimited storage via OneDrive for Business. For more information, please check out the following link:
https://it.uoregon.edu/about-office-365
Specific technical questions can be directed to College of Design Technology Services. Please read the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) below before e-mailing or calling.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are my options for financial assistance?
We encourage all students required to buy a computer to return a “Plan to Purchase” form to the Office of Financial Aid. [Note: To view and download this information you must have Adobe Reader.] Forms are also available in your department office. The computer requirement may increase your financial aid eligibility. If you are not eligible for financial aid but need to borrow money in order to purchase your computer, you are encouraged to discuss loan possibilities with a UO financial aid counselor.
- Contact the Office of Financial Aid at 1-800-760-6953 or 541-346-3221. Students who are normally not eligible for financial aid may qualify with the additional cost of the required computer equipment.
- Consumer loans are available through banks and credit unions.
- Leasing options are available through some computer retailers.
- Apple offers income/credit based loans to qualified purchasers. There is no charge for pre-approval. Call the Apple Loan Program: 1-800-277-5356.
Where do I buy my hardware and/or software?
You may obtain the recommended hardware and software from wherever you wish, but we have made an effort to ensure that you get the best deal available by purchasing your computer from the UO Duck Store or directly from Apple or Dell.
For Apple computers, we recommend a visit to the UO Duck Store or the Apple Store for Education (select the Education section at the bottom of the Apple Store main page). Pricing is equivalent, however there is no tax if purchased from the Duck Store. The Duck Store may also have specials and sales that the on-line Apple Store may not have.
Order your Windows computer from Dell via our University of Oregon Premiere Dell site.
If you would like to shop in person, the Duck Store stocks all of the recommended Apple hardware and all of the required software. You can reach the friendly, knowledgeable staff at the UO Duck Store at 541-346-4331; ask for Computing.
Should I get a Windows computer or a Mac?
This is the hardest question to answer and also the most common. For the most part, Mac OS computers and Windows computers run the same software, including all Adobe and Microsoft software that students need to complete assignments. Most students will do fine with either one.
If you prefer one over the other, buy the kind you prefer. If you are unsure, verify with your department if there is a preference or review the program requirements above. Note: You can run Windows on a Mac via a separate partition or in a virtual machine via a program like Parallels.
Here are a few differences between Windows and Mac OS X computers that may help you decide:
| Windows | Mac OS | |
| Runs AutoCAD and ArcGIS (both are free for students): | Yes | Yes, requires purchase of Windows license and Bootcamp. |
| Viruses: | Yes | Yes |
| Spyware/Adware: | Yes | Yes |
| Need to keep up with security patches: | Critical | Critical |
| Initial price: | A good machine can be had for $1200 and up. | Slightly more expensive for similar specifications. Does allow the ability to run both Mac OS and Windows software. |
How do I run Windows on my Mac?
There are multiple ways to get Windows on your Mac. The easiest and lowest-cost method is called Boot Camp. All new Macs come with Boot Camp built in. Boot Camp is what allows the computers in computing labs to run both Windows and the Mac OS. Run the Boot Camp Assistant, follow the instructions, and insert a Windows installation CD when prompted.
Other software that allows you to run Windows on your Mac includes Parallels and VMWare Fusion. These programs allow you to run the Mac OS and Windows at the same time. They cost money and since they require both operating systems sharing resources, may slow down your computer if doing heavy design or rendering work.
Should I buy a laptop computer or a desktop computer?
Laptop computers are strongly recommended or required depending on the program. They will allow you to participate more effectively in computer-based classes. Laptop computers have the major advantage of being portable and convenient, which makes them more useful and easier to support. The primary drawback is higher cost and theft.
If you would like the convenience of a desktop in your residence or if you have the ability to use one in your studio, Technology Services recommends purchasing an external monitor and keyboard/mouse to attach to your laptop.
Students who are well into their academic careers may also find that having a desktop workstation would be beneficial. Desktop computers should be considered as a second computer to be used with your laptop. Please consult with your department or professors prior to purchasing.
The recommended computers are powerful and expensive. Do I have to spend so much money for such a powerful computer when I’m just a novice?
Yes.
Students who purchase a powerful computer will incur fewer upgrade costs later on in their academic career. A less powerful computer is much more likely to become outdated when you are two or three years into your program.
We expect that your computer will perform well for three to four years under normal use. You should plan to consider purchasing a second computer at some point during your academic career.
Can two (or more) students share the same computer?
No.
The requirement in Architecture and Landscape Architecture is for “each student to have the appropriate computing capability in his or her principal work space.”
Can I use the computer labs instead of buying my own equipment?
No.
The UO and College of Design computing labs provide an alternative for students who do not have their computer on site. These university-supported labs are frequently congested at peak times, so access may be limited.
Will I be required to purchase more software later in my academic career?
Yes.
You must purchase the software faculty require for their classes. You will have access to a full suite of software in the computing labs. Computing labs are a centralized resource College of Design students. The labs give access to software, scanners, and printers that would be prohibitively expensive for students to purchase individually and provide students a place to try out software prior to purchase.
Should I purchase the hardware and software separately?
Yes.
We encourage you to do so in order to get the best prices.
Do I need to buy anti-virus software?
No.
But if you purchase a Windows computer, you must install anti-virus software.
The UO has a site license for anti-virus software for Windows and the Mac OS. If you purchase an Apple computer, anti-virus software is optional.
Should I purchase an extended warranty insurance?
We urge students and parents to strongly consider purchasing an extended warranty with their computer for a minimum of 3 years. Warranties like AppleCare normally cover only non-accidental technical break downs, however companies like Dell allow you to also purchase accident insurance. It is best to always read the fine print!
We also strongly recommend coverage under renter’s or homeowner’s insurance, either yours or your parents’. You will probably need to declare your computer to include it in your coverage or add a special rider to cover your computer. Computer coverage is often inexpensive.
When will I need my computer equipment?
Please consult with your department as to when you will need your equipment.
Where do I set up my computer when I get it?
New graduate and undergraduate students should set up their computers in their design studios. Technology Services can help you with general set up and configuration questions or issues, however for major upgrades a visit to the UO IS Help Desk may be required. Please contact us for assistance.
Will my computer be safe in my studio?
We take precautions to ensure the safety of your computer equipment in all studio spaces occupied by the introductory studios.
- Access control is provided in most studios. The doors to the studios have access control devices which require a code to enter. Note that if your fellow students prop doors open, the purpose of the access control devices will be defeated.
- In many studios there are high-security desks that allow you to lock your computer in a safe box.
- We highly recommend that each student purchase and install the recommended computer security kit. You can purchase it at the University of Oregon Duck Store; it is part of the recommendation above.
What if I want to buy a printer?
Having a personal printer is not required but can provide convenient and flexible feedback in the design process. Before you buy your own printer, you may want to do some research on the surprisingly high cost of operating an inkjet printer. Low-cost laser printing is available in the computing labs, and color printing is available in the Output Room.
How do I set up an e-mail account?
Typically new students setup their Duck ID’s when they go through IntroDucktion or via instructions received in the mail once initial deposits have been made to the university. Your Duck ID is the first half of your email address and can be managed at http://duckid.uoregon.edu. Students can use any computer with a web browser and an internet connection to check email via Webmail. Use your Duck ID and associated password to check your email.
More information about email and your Duck ID can be found at the University of Oregon IT website.
I have more questions, to whom should I address them?
For non-technical questions, contact your department. For questions about computers, contact College of Design, Technology Services at 541-346-6194, or please open a help ticket in the UO Service Portal)