Weitzman School Student Computer Recommendations

Choosing a computer that will serve your digital needs at Weitzman is an important decision. A computer will not only support your academic work, but also better position you as you transition to the workforce. Although a brand-new computer is not required, you should expect to use a computer that is relatively new and with a proper warranty. Computers that are generally 4 years or older are most likely out of warranty and not sufficiently capable of handling the latest versions of required software. In today’s environment, being able to work productively everywhere and anywhere is more important than ever.

While macOS can support many software titles natively, there are several critical applications that are Windows only (e.g. ArcGIS Pro, Revit, 3ds Max, DesignBuilder, etc.) and cannot run sufficiently on Apple hardware even with virtualization options like Parallels. Weitzman ITS cannot provide any support for attempting to run Windows-only applications on a Mac.

Architecture and Landscape Architecture students will use various software titles such as Adobe Creative Cloud applications, as well as both 2D and 3D applications, including Autodesk titles (AutoCAD, Revit, 3ds Max, etc.) and Rhino. Memory and GPU are important components of your computer purchase. Selecting a better GPU and more RAM will aid in overall performance and how efficiently your system handles various applications. Faculty advise students to use Windows machines and strongly discourage Mac computers due to Windows-based software applications used in various courses.

City Planning and Historic Preservation students use Adobe applications, as well as ArcGIS. Again, faculty advise students to use Windows machines and strongly discourage Mac computers due to Windows-based software applications used in various courses.

While Fine Arts students are not absolutely required to have a personal computer, it is strongly recommended that you own one for your expected needs for the two years of your MFA study. A new personal computer would not only support your academic and creative work, especially for those whose art is digitally or computationally focused, but it would be of service to you for several years beyond your graduation. Having a personal computer is an investment that would greatly enhance your studies and your post-graduate professional path.

We understand that finances are a concern, but you will want a computer capable enough to handle the various software applications used in your field of study. Please consider the courses you plan to take, whether you might be a dual degree student, or plan to take a class or studio in another discipline and plan accordingly. You do not need to purchase your system via the Penn-suggested portals, but if you choose to purchase elsewhere, or bring a computer you already own, please take into consideration the configurations we proposed.

Please be sure to read your Departmental memo below with specific information about required laptops, software applications, and other ordering information. We strongly urge you to place your computing order as soon as possible. Currently, supply chains and shipping dates can be delayed.

For any questions, please contact ithelp@design.upenn.edu.