Technology Requirements for Graphic Design

Students participating in a Graphic Design (GD) course must have access to the internet, a webcam, a microphone, a desktop or laptop, and the appropriate software. A Chromebook or tablet may not substitute for a desktop or laptop. A tablet that can run Windows 10 software and performs like a laptop is an exception.

Minimum computer specifications:

These specifications are minimums for students taking a graphic design course as an elective or for enrichment. These specifications do not apply to those enrolled in GD 110, GD 260, or GD 270 and are not recommended benchmarks for students enrolled in a Graphic Design degree program.

Windows

• Windows® 10 (64-bit) or higher
  • Multicore Intel processor with 64-bit support or AMD Athlon 64® processor that supports SSE 4.2 or later
• 8 GB of RAM or more
• 15 GB free hard drive space or moreGPU with DirectX 12 support and supports OpenGL version 4.0 or greater
• Internet connection access

Mac

• macOS® Big Sur (macOS 11) or higher
  • Apple M1 Chip or higher, or Intel® Core™ i5, i7 or i9
• 8 GB of RAM or more
• 15 GB free hard drive space or more
• Internet connection access

Technology Recommendations for GD 260, GD 270 and Multi-Media Design Skillset Program (MMSSD)

For students enrolled in the MMSSD program, it is recommended that you have access to a Windows-based gaming computer. Students seeking a 4-year degree in multi-media should check with their prospective transfer degree program for any specific computer recommendations or requirements. Students enrolled in GD 260 or 270 as an elective or for enrichment are not required to own a computer able to run the software.

Technology Recommendations for Graphic Design Degree Programs (AASGD, CERGD)

It is required that all students enrolled in the Associate in Applied Arts and Science Degree for Graphic Design (AASGD) or Graphic Design Certificate Degree (CERGD) programs have a computer capable of supporting Adobe Creative Cloud software. Access to the internet, a webcam, and a microphone are also required. A 16-inch MacBook Pro® capable of running macOS Ventura (macOS 13) is recommended. An iMac is an option for students who prefer a desktop option but may not be suitable for some transfer schools. A Windows-based PC can be used but is not preferred.

Recommended:
16-inch MacBook Pro

• Apple M1 Chip or higher, or Intel® Core™ i5, i7 or i9
• macOS Ventura (macOS 13) or higher
• 16 GB RAM or higher (RAM in Apple computers cannot be upgraded after purchase)
• 500 GB or more SSD storage (minimum 20GB of free space)

A 13” MacBook Pro or MacBook Air® are not recommended substitutions but could be used. If shopping for a used 16” MacBook Pro, look for a 2019 model or later. An iMac with similar or greater specifications would be an option for students who prefer a desktop option but may not be suitable for some transfer schools.

Additional information

Mac computer labs

The Fine Arts Building (FAB) maintains 2 Mac labs for SC4 students participating in a Graphic Design (GD) course or for students actively enrolled in the AASGD, CERGD, or MMSSD programs.

The primary lab is equipped with the following:

• 27-inch iMac® desktops
• Outlets for laptops
• HP Color LaserJet® 5225 Laser printer
• Epson Stylus Pro® 9900 large-format inkjet printer
• Epson SureColor® P800
• Wacom Cintiq® Drawing Tablets
• Wacom Intuos® Drawing Tablets
• Spray booth

Library access

The SC4 Library in the College Center (CC) reserves 2 Mac computers for SC4 students participating in a GD course or for students actively enrolled in the AASGD, CERGD, or MMSSD programs. Students enrolled in approved photo or video courses can access DSLR and SLR cameras.

Adobe® Creative Cloud® Suite

The Adobe Creative Cloud Suite (CC) is provided to students currently enrolled in a GD course. Contact your instructor for details during the first week of classes.

Office 365®

Office 365 is provided through the college for registered students. It can be accessed using your Portal login and password.

3D modeling software

Most 3d software is free for students who can show proof of registration. This includes Autodesk® (AutoCad®, Maya®, 3Ds Max®, Mudbox®), Maxon® (Cinema 4D®, ZBrush®) and Blender®.

Cloud service

Office 365 includes OneDrive®, which is a dedicated cloud service for saving and backing up files. Adobe CC is also equipped with cloud storage. Cloud storage may expire at the end of a subscription period and should not be used for long-term storage.

Computer access problems

If you need help meeting your technology needs, please contact your instructor. Also, you may contact the Student Help Desk at helpdesk@sc4.edu or (810) 989-5858.