Computer System Requirements
Student Equipment & Software
As a student at DWC, you are responsible for an up-to-date computer and the proper software.
It is vital that you have installed tested your equipment and software prior to the start of class. If you don’t have the proper equipment & software, it will have a negative effect on your online class experience.
For all programs, we recommend the following as general minimum guideline for your computer:
- 8GB RAM minimum for basic applications or 16 GB RAM minimum for graphic and video design applications (e.g. Photoshop)
- 512 MB Video RAM
- 500 GB HDD
- i5 processor or higher
- Dual monitors with HDMI
- Webcam, Mic and Speakers
- Wireless mouse (note we do not support using a trackpad in most programs)
- High-speed, cable internet connection
If you are in a design program that is using more advanced graphics or video software (e.g. Graphic Design, UX Design, or Video Design Certificate), then you will want the most Video RAM possible (1GB minimum recommended).
Having dual monitors is strongly recommended for online classes. You can view your instructors screen on one monitor while simultaneously doing your work on the second monitor. If you don’t have dual monitors, you may also be able to use two devices (e.g. a laptop and a desktop).
We do not recommend using a tablet or phone for any of your classes.
DWC programs do not include the cost of any equipment or software. Please talk to your student advisor or instructor to learn more about which software you will need for your program. Requirements and versions may change over time.
Hardware Recommendations from Microsoft & Adobe
For many of our programs, you will need to have either Microsoft or Adobe products installed. To learn more about specifics of any product, click the proper link below.
Reputable, 3rd party sellers
If you need to purchase a computer for class, then we recommend a new or certified refurbished machine from a reputable outlet.
Reputable Sellers include:
Equipment & Software Requirements – By Program
Below are the equipment and software requirements for each certificate program. Certificate program and/or class tuition is included in a separate estimate. Equipment and software are not included in the cost of tuition and cannot be purchased through Digital Workshop Center.
- Advanced Graphic Design
- Blueprint
- Business Administration
- Data Analytics
- Digital Marketing
- Excel Master Program
- Frontend Web Development
- Project Management
- QuickBooks Bookkeeper
- UX Design
- Video Design
Software/Equipment
- Computer including system requirements listed above
- We strongly recommend 16GB RAM for graphics programs to run at optimized performance
- Second monitor and HDMI cable to view class e-books
- Speaker and microphone (if not included with your computer)
- Wireless mouse
- Adobe Creative Cloud apps (latest version)
Note: See subscription/software purchase options here. Select the “Students & Teachers” tab for student pricing. The “Creative Cloud All Apps” option includes all of the apps required for this program.
Software/Equipment
- Computer meeting the system requirements listed above
- Note: PC is required (Macs are incompatible with the training software).
- Second monitor and HDMI cable to view class e-books
- Speaker and microphone if not included with your computer
- Microsoft Word, Outlook, PowerPoint & Excel Office 2021 software
Note: See subscription/software purchase options here. If a one-time purchase is preferred, the “Office Home & Business 2021” package includes the software needed for this program.
Software/Equipment
- Computer meeting the system requirements listed above
- Second monitor and HDMI cable to view class e-books
- Speaker and microphone if not included with your computer
- Microsoft Word, Outlook, PowerPoint & Excel software (latest version)
Note: See subscription/software purchase options here. If a one-time purchase is preferred, the “Office Home & Business 2021” package includes the software needed for this program.
Software/Equipment
- Computer meeting the system requirements listed above
- Second monitor and HDMI cable to view class e-books
- Speaker and microphone if not included with your computer
- Microsoft Excel software (latest version)
Note: See subscription/software purchase options here. - In addition to the paid applications, there are several free programs you will download and install prior to the beginning of your program. Your instructor will guide you on the latest required downloads.
Software/Equipment
- Computer meeting the system requirements listed above
- Second monitor and HDMI cable to view class e-books
- Speaker and microphone if not included with your computer
- Wireless mouse
- There are several free programs you will subscribe or download prior to the beginning of your program. Your instructor will guide you on the latest required subscriptions/downloads.
Software/Equipment
- Computer meeting the system requirements listed above
- Second monitor and HDMI cable to view class e-books
- Speaker and microphone if not included with your computer
- Microsoft Excel software (latest version)
Note: See subscription/software purchase options here.
Software/Equipment
- Computer meeting the system requirements listed above
- Second monitor and HDMI cable to view class e-books
- Speaker and microphone if not included with your computer
- Wireless mouse
- There are several free programs you will download and install prior to the beginning of your program. Your instructor will guide you on the latest required downloads.
Software/Equipment
- Computer meeting the system requirements listed above
- Second monitor and HDMI cable to view class e-books
- Speaker and microphone if not included with your computer
Software/Equipment
- Computer meeting the system requirements listed above
- Second monitor and HDMI cable to view class e-books
- Speaker and microphone if not included with your computer
- Microsoft Excel software (latest version)
Note: See subscription/software purchase options here. - You will also use a free sample company file provided by QuickBooks. Your instructor will provide directions on how to access the sample company file.
Software/Equipment
- Computer meeting the system requirements listed above
- Second monitor and HDMI cable to view class e-books
- Speaker and microphone if not included with your computer
- Wireless mouse
- There are several free programs you will download and install prior to the beginning of your program. Your instructor will guide you on the latest required downloads.
Software/Equipment
- Computer meeting the system requirements listed above
- We strongly recommend having the most Video RAM possible (1GB minimum) to optimize your computer for video editing work
- Second monitor and HDMI cable to view class e-books
- Wireless mouse
- Speaker and microphone if not included with your computer
- Adobe Creative Cloud apps (latest version)
Note: See subscription/software purchase options here. Select the “Students & Teachers” tab for student pricing. The “Creative Cloud All Apps” option includes all of the apps required for this program.