Digital Arts & Sciences Technology Requirements

Overview

To succeed in the Digital Arts and Sciences (BADAS) program, students must have access to a high-performance computer capable of running industry-standard software for 3D modeling, game engine development, and high-resolution video rendering.

Hardware Specifications

While we support student choice, please review the critical platform notes below before purchasing. We recommend hardware that meets the “Recommended” specs to ensure your machine remains viable throughout the four-year program.

Critical Device Compatibility Notes

• Platform Recommendation: We strongly recommend Windows-based devices only. Apple products have been known to underperform significantly when running the specific 3D applications required for this curriculum.
• “Gaming” Computers: Generally, any computer marketed as a “gaming“ computer will possess the necessary hardware to handle the program’s workload.
• Tablets & Ultra-Portables: Portable computers and tablets, such as an iPad or Surface Pro, are not capable of running the required 3D applications and should not be used as your primary workstation.

Core Software Suites

Students are expected to have the following software installed.

• Design: Creative Cloud Pro for students (Photoshop, Illustrator, After Effects)
• 3D Animation and Modeling: Autodesk Maya
• 2D Animation: Toon Boom Harmony
• Game Engines: Unity and Unreal Engine
• Productivity: Microsoft Office 365 (Available for free via your student account)

Required Peripherals

Please ensure you have the following:

• Three-Button Mouse: Essential for navigating 3D viewports in Maya.
• External Hard Drive: Minimum 1TB (USB 3.0 or USB-C) for project backups and large asset storage.
• Drawing Tablet (Optional): A Wacom or Huion tablet is highly recommended for digital illustration and 3D sculpting.