Recommended Minimum Computer Specifications for New Students 2025-2026
The following minimum specifications for new computers are recommended, though not required.
If you’re uncertain, on a Mac select “About This Mac” from the Apple menu to view your system specs.
Character Animation & Experimental Animation
It is recommended that animation students purchase both a MacBook Pro and a drawing tablet, either a Cintiq or iPad Pro.
Apple MacBook Pro
- macOS 15 macOS Sequoia
- Apple M4 Max with 14-core CPU, 32-core GPU, 16-core Neural Engine
- 16-inch Liquid Retina XDR display
- 36GB unified memory
- 2TB SSD storage (minimum)
- AppleCare+
- Logitech M535 mouse or similar Mac compatible 3-button Bluetooth mouse (Required for certain software applications such as Maya or Cinema 4D)
iPad Pro
– OR –
Cintiq
- Apple M4 chip
- 13-inch Liquid Retina XDR display
- 256GB storage (minimum)
- Wi-Fi connectivity
- Apple Pencil Pro
- AppleCare+
- Wacom Movink 13 or Cintiq Pro 24
Film Directing Program & Program in Film and Video
Apple MacBook Pro
- macOS 15 Sequoia
- Apple M4 Pro with 14-core CPU, 20-core GPU, 16-core Neural Engine
- 16-inch Liquid Retina XDR display
- 24GB unified memory
- 2TB SSD storage (minimum)
- AppleCare+