The School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation requires that all students studying architecture purchase a laptop computer. Specific requirements for students studying architecture are listed below for both hardware and software.
We provide the following technical specifications to define the baseline requirements. Many software applications are available to all matriculated students. We recommend you check the following website to see a complete list, https://terpware.umd.edu. A list of required and recommended software is listed below.
Preferred Hardware Specifications
VR-Ready/Gaming PC/Laptop ~ $2,400.00 (Great for multi-purposes use)
- Processor: Intel Core i7/Ultra 7 or greater
- Memory (RAM): 16 GB (minimum), 32 GB (preferred)
- Hard Drive: 512 GB SSD for Operating System and 1TB for data storage
- GPU: Dedicated, Nvidia or AMD with at least 8GB of vRAM
- Extended warranty with accidental coverage.
MacBook Pro ~ $2,700.00 (Great for graphic design, not for VR or modeling)
Many students also purchase monitors so that they can expand their digital workspace. Additional external storage and peripherals are recommended for workability and data redundancy.
- External monitor 27-inch 4K monitor or larger
- University-provided cloud storage (Google Drive and/or Box) for data storage/redundancy
NOTE: Some coursework software is NOT compatible or supported on macOS such as Autodesk Revit, NavisWorks, and Lumion.
Software Applications
The following are the required software applications for architecture students:
Adobe Creative Cloud Suite – FREE through UMD TERPWare program:
- Adobe Photoshop
- Adobe inDesign
- Adobe Illustrator
Autodesk – FREE through Autodesk Education portal:
- Autodesk AutoCAD
- Autodesk Revit (Not available for macOS)
Microsoft Office 365 – FREE through UMD TERPware program:
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Powerpoint
- Microsoft Excel
Other specialized programs - Subscription or License is required:
- Rhinoceros (through www.creationengine.com, $195)
- SketchUp Pro (through www.creationengine.com, $49)