Computer Requirements
All incoming students are required to purchase a laptop upon entering the Cornish College Design Department, and each discipline within Design has a set of recommended computer hardware and software specifications. We recommend these systems to ensure our students are using the same software and hardware that working professionals are using in the field.
Hardware Requirements
Visual Communication and Motion Students
Incoming Visual Communication and Motion students are required to have an Apple Macintosh laptop. Information on purchasing a new system can be found below. If you have already invested in a different system, please contact us.
Click here to view recommended specifications.
Interior Design Students
We are presently assessing the needs of Interior design students based on hardware and software requirements. For the most up-to-date recommendations on hardware, contact Suzanne Poag @ 1-206-726-2117.
Where to Buy
It's best to buy your new computer directly from Apple. Only Apple Stores and the Apple Cornish web site can offer Educational discounts. You'll almost always pay more for a computer from a reseller (such as The MAC store, CompUSA and MacMall).
To purchase your computer online, please visit the official Cornish College Apple Store.
Software Requirements
All Design Students
Incoming students are required to have Adobe Creative Suite 3 Design Premium installed on their laptop first day of classes. Students may wish to consider additional software packages on a class-by-class basis, but these programs are not required.
Click here for more information on the Creative Suite. See below for information on making your purchase.
Where to Buy
For the best discounted educational pricing, please visit My Education Store or contact Jennifer Raber via email ( ) or phone (1-414-763-0555).
Additional Information
In addition to the required hardware, there are a number of optional hardware devices students may find helpful. These items are not required.
To aide in the purchasing process, a list of helpful terms is available.