You are here: American University School of Communication Film & Media Arts Computer Requirements

Film & Media Arts Computer Requirements

The Film & Media Arts Division of American University's School of Communication is a leader in visual storytelling and integrating the latest and evolving technologies into production and distribution.

As a result, we are pleased to partner with Apple to provide you with recommendations for your laptop needs. Remember that we have an all-digital tapeless production workflow, which means that the central tool for managing media is your computer.

Incoming MA in Film & Media Arts and MFA in Film & Electronic Media students are required to own one of the laptops listed below. Check out the Apple Store for special student pricing, and be sure to purchase the AppleCare Protection Plan for your laptop.

In addition to one of the laptops below, there is also an additional list of equipment you will need for the program.

Selected
Required
Recommended
  • Premiere Pro

  • SD cards for media capture: 16 GB minimum x 2, Class 10 minimum speed

  • Portable hard drive for editing: ranges from $100 to $300, depending on size and brand. 1 TB recommended.


  • AppleCare Protection Plan

  • Portable RAID array for media storage and backup, minimum 1 TB. Alternatively, two 1 TB drives and Shotput Pro software.


Have questions?

If you have any questions, contact SOC Techline at soctechline@american.edu or call the Tech line at 202-885-3570.