Technology Recommendations
In order to make sure all students have the technology needed for our classes, the School of Journalism and Mass Communication recommends that all incoming students have or purchase a laptop computer. We also recommend that returning students have or purchase a laptop computer.
Because we know this is a challenging time for many students and families, we are including two levels of laptop computers. The minimum recommended specifications are listed below:
Power User Specs: 14” or 16" Macbook Pro with M1 chip, 32GB Unified Memory, 1TB SSD Storage*
Essential Specs: 14” or 16" Macbook Pro with M1 chip, 16GB Unified Memory, 512GB SSD Storage
*It is recommended that DMI and Electronic Media students go with the higher specs if possible.
Please Note: None of these specs can be updated after purchase.
We are working with the Bookstore to update their product catalog. In the meantime, you may wish to customize a Macbook Pro with the above-recommended specs and purchase from the Apple Store with an education discount.
FAQs
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I already have a computer. Do I need to purchase a new laptop?
No – but it is best if your computer has adequate processing power and storage to handle your class assignments.
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Why are incoming SJMC majors recommended to have or purchase a laptop?
As a professionally accredited program, classes in the School of Journalism and Mass Communication require students to use technology for assignments, projects, videos, websites and campaigns. This work requires more than just basic functions such as word processing, note-taking, emailing, online research. Students need access to adequate, modern computing technology in our classes.
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Can I use my financial aid to purchase this laptop?
Yes. Financial Aid covers academic expenses.
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Why were these types of computer and models selected?
These models were selected because they provide adequate processing power, memory and storage needed to run the software we use in class. Keep in mind, however, the more storage and processing power, the better.
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If I purchase a laptop from the bookstore, do I have to be on campus to pick it up?
No- you can either pick up your new laptop from the bookstore or it can be shipped directly to your home.
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I can’t afford to purchase a new computer right now. What are my options?
We know it’s a challenging time for many students and families right now. You are welcome to use the computer labs on campus and in the School of Journalism and Mass Communication. We also hope to have a few laptops available for daily checkout.
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Is there a payment plan available from the bookstore?
For the customers that choose the in-store pickup option, we do offer payment plans through a 3rd party vendor called SunBit. SunBit requires a small down payment and then students have the option to break up the payments into 3, 6, and 12 month options.
Other Considerations:
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Many of the traditional book costs within our courses have been replaced with digital resources such as Adobe Creative Cloud software and LinkedIn Learning tutorials. LinkedIn is available for free to current students.
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Most of the work in our courses require technology beyond just the basics (word processing, note-taking, research), requiring more computing power, memory and hard disk space.
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All mass communication degrees are programs in which students learn to make media. They will learn to tell stories for audiences using the appropriate tools and technologies
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We teach current tools and technologies that allow students to develop assignments and projects for a portfolio of work that will help them get a job after graduation.
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This configuration was recommended to assure that all students have sufficient technology and a consistent experience in all our courses.
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In an increasingly virtual and remote learning/workforce world, students must be able to work on technology wherever they are, so having access to mobile technologies is more important than ever.
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This technology will be able to go with students when they graduate, taking along with them all their assignments and projects in one, organized place/device. This will allow them to continue exercising the ideas, concepts and skills they learned in our program after graduation and into their careers.