General Computer Requirements
Students can purchase a computer from any vendor of choice, however there are minimum and recommended requirements. Below are specifications that will allow any student's computer to still function during the 4-5 years that they are attending SAU. If you have any questions please contact our Information Technology department for further assistance. You can email any questions directly to: helpdesk@arbor.edu.
- Intel i5 or i7 Processor (CPU)
- 8 GB Memory (RAM) is Required | 16 GB Memory (RAM) is Recommended
- 256 GB (or higher) SSD Hard Drive
- Wireless 802.11AC (built-in)
- Extended Warranty (at least 3 years – longer if possible)
Chrome OS Devices
We strongly discourage the choice of a Chromebook or Chromebox device to serve as a primary computer for students in any programs at Spring Arbor University. There is some functionality that cannot be had by using a Chrome device. This is typically related to more complicated functions regarding file processing for courses and additional functionality needed in certain Microsoft Office use cases. A Chrome device can be helpful as an affordable augmentation to a students resources, but should not be relied upon as the sole computer for course work.
Requirements for Department of Communication and Media majors
Hardware
- MacBook Pro or Air (Digital Media Communication Major with a concentration in Video/Film or Broadcasting need a Macbook Pro)
- OSX version 10.13 or higher
- Video/Film majors need 16GB RAM or higher
- At least 512 GB of Hard Disk space
- At least a 2 GHz Processor
Software
All Department of Communication and Media majors must subscribe to the Adobe Creative Cloud Software package. Proficiency with all or some of these tools is expected in the communication field, specifically: Photoshop, InDesign, Audition, Premiere Pro.
As of this writing, the subscription length for this package of programs is one year. Your instructor in your COM TECH (COM 110) course will help you enroll for the first year of your subscription and the cost of the first year will be covered by a COM TECH (COM 110) course fee. You are responsible for the cost of continuing the subscription through subsequent years.
Have questions? Contact Dorie Shelby, Chair, Department of Communication and Media.
Discounts on Computers, Software, and Mobile Phone Service
Click Here for more information on purchasing Personal Computer Hardware & Software at a discounted rate.