Student support
Computer and software requirements for DWC programs
Every DWC class is taught live over Zoom, so your computer is your classroom. Use this page to check your computer, find the software for your program, and get set up before your first session.
Ready for your first class
- Check your computerCompare it to the requirements for your program below.
- Install and test ZoomUse the Zoom test meeting to check your camera, mic, and speakers.
- Install your softwareInstall, sign in, and open each app before your first session.
- Set up your screen spaceArrange your screen so you can watch your instructor and work at the same time.
Computer specs
Minimum computer requirements
Find your program type, then check your computer against that column. Design and video software needs more power than the rest of the programs.
- Standard computerEvery program not listed below
- Design computerAdvanced Graphic Design and UX Design
- Video computerDigital Media Production
| Spec | Standard computer | Design computer | Video computer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operating system | Windows 11, or macOS 14 (Sonoma) or later | Same as standard | Windows 11 version 24H2 or later, or macOS 14 (Sonoma) or later |
| Processor | Intel Core i5 (8th generation or newer) or AMD Ryzen 5; on a Mac, Apple silicon (M1 or newer) | Same as standard | Intel 11th generation or newer, or AMD Ryzen 3000 series or newer; on a Mac, M1 Pro or newer recommended |
| Memory (RAM) | 16GB | 16GB | 16GB minimum, 32GB recommended |
| Storage | 256GB solid state drive (SSD); 512GB recommended | 512GB SSD | 512GB SSD or larger, plus an external SSD for video projects |
| Graphics | Built-in graphics are fine | 2GB of video memory; 4GB for a 4K display | Dedicated graphics with 4GB of video memory minimum, 8GB recommended; on a Mac, Apple silicon with 16GB of memory |
| Display | 1920 x 1080 or higher, with room for two windows side by side (see screen space below) | Same as standard | Same as standard |
| Camera and audio | Webcam, microphone, and speakers or a headset | Same as standard | Same as standard; headphones help when editing audio |
| Mouse | A mouse; a trackpad makes class work slower | A mouse is required for design work | A mouse is required for editing work |
Will not work, or check first
- Windows 10No longer receives security updates from Microsoft, and the current Adobe video apps require Windows 11.
- Chromebooks, tablets, and phonesThey cannot run the desktop software used in class. A phone is fine as a backup for joining Zoom audio.
- Windows in S modeS mode only installs apps from the Microsoft Store, and Zoom does not support it. You can switch out of S mode for free.
- Work or school computersMany block software installs. Check with your IT department that you can install your program software and Zoom.
Internet connection
Use a high-speed home broadband connection; a wired connection or strong Wi-Fi works best. For full HD group video, Zoom lists 3.8 Mbps up and 3.0 Mbps down, so plan for more if others share your connection. See Zoom system requirements.
Screen space
More screen space makes live classes easier
In every class you watch your instructor demonstrate in Zoom while you follow along in your own software. The more screen space you have, the easier it is to see both at once without switching windows. You do not need two monitors: one large screen split down the middle works too.
- One large monitorA 27-inch or larger monitor fits Zoom and your software side by side. It is often the simplest setup.
- Two screensA laptop plus an external monitor, or two monitors, works just as well. Most connect with an HDMI or USB-C cable.
- A laptop aloneIt works, but you will switch between windows all class. Add a monitor when you can.
Software and student pricing
Software to buy, and where to save
Most DWC programs use free tools. Five products come up across programs; here is where to get each one and how to get student pricing where it is offered. Software and equipment are not included in tuition and cannot be purchased through DWC.
Adobe Creative Cloud Pro
Used in: Advanced Graphic Design and Digital Media Production
Creative Cloud Pro includes Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Premiere Pro, After Effects, and Firefly. Adobe software has its own cost, and DWC students get Adobe student pricing once enrolled. Adobe may ask for proof of enrollment when you sign up.
Microsoft 365
Used in: Business Administration, Blueprint, Data Analytics, QuickBooks Bookkeeper, Excel Master Program
Microsoft 365 Personal, Family, and Premium include desktop Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. Office Home and Business 2024 is a one-time purchase with the same desktop apps. If you are also enrolled at a college or university, Microsoft offers student pricing; Microsoft sets the eligibility rules.
Microsoft 365 Copilot
Used in: AI for Business Professionals
Each student needs their own Microsoft 365 Copilot license: a qualifying Microsoft 365 business plan with the Copilot add-on, month to month for the length of the program. It is not included in tuition.
Figma
Used in: UX Design and Advanced Graphic Design
Figma's free plan covers everything used in DWC classes. Verified students and teachers can also apply for free education access.
Zoom
Used in: Every program
All classes meet live in Zoom. The free Zoom app is all you need; install the desktop app instead of joining from a browser.
How to get Adobe student pricing
For Advanced Graphic Design and Digital Media Production students. Complete these steps once you are enrolled.
- Open the Adobe student pricing pageGo to Adobe Creative Cloud for students and choose Creative Cloud Pro. Sign in to your Adobe account, or create one with your own email address.
- Enter your payment detailsFollow Adobe's directions to choose your billing option and enter a credit card. Adobe requires the card holder to be 18 or older.
- Enter your school detailsOn the next page, enter your first and last name, then fill in the school fields as shown in the box.
- Place your orderSelect Place order. Adobe may ask for proof of enrollment, such as your DWC registration confirmation or class schedule.
- Install your appsInstall the Creative Cloud desktop app, sign in with the same Adobe account, then install the apps for your program.
Step 3: what to enter
- School level
- Other
- School name
- Digital Workshop CenterType it, then pick it from the list. Similar names appear, so check the spelling.
- Primary area of study
- Design, Web, Multimedia
- Graduation month and year
- The month and year your DWC program endsYour program schedule shows the end date.
Student pricing is set by Adobe and applies to your first year; Adobe shows renewal pricing on the offer page.
By program
Equipment and software by program
Each card lists the computer type, any software to buy, and what to install or set up before your first session. Your instructor confirms the final list of tools during orientation, and the instructions in your registration email take priority if anything changes.
Advanced Graphic Design
Design computerSoftware to buy
- Adobe Creative Cloud Pro, with Adobe student pricing for DWC students once enrolled (step-by-step directions)
Set up before class
- The Creative Cloud desktop app, then Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign from inside it
- A free Figma account
Sign in to Creative Cloud with the same Adobe account you used for student pricing, and open each app once before your first session.
AI for Business Professionals
Standard computerSoftware to buy
- Your own Microsoft 365 Copilot license: a qualifying Microsoft 365 plan with the Copilot add-on, month to month for the length of the program
Set up before class
- Desktop Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Teams, signed in with the account that has your Copilot license
No other paid AI subscriptions are required. Confirm Copilot appears in Word and Teams before your first session.
Blueprint Basic Digital Literacy
Standard computerSoftware to buy
- Your own Microsoft 365 access for Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. Your advisor confirms how you will get it before your start date.
Set up before class
- A free Google account for Gmail, Google Drive, Docs, and Calendar
No experience needed. Your first sessions cover the basics of using your computer and Zoom.
Business Administration
Standard computerSoftware to buy
- Your own Microsoft 365 subscription with the desktop apps: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook
Set up before class
- A free Google account for the Google Workspace module
Microsoft Office Specialist exams are optional and their fees are separate.
Data Analytics
Standard computerSoftware to buy
- Your own Microsoft 365 subscription with the desktop apps, including Excel
Set up before class
- Power BI Desktop (free)
- Python and Jupyter Notebooks through the free Anaconda distribution
- Google Colab with a free Google account
- A free SQL environment; your instructor names the tool in the first week
Power BI Desktop runs only on Windows. If you use a Mac, talk to your advisor before the program begins.
Digital Marketing
Standard computerSoftware to buy
- No paid software is required
Set up before class
- A free Google account for Google Analytics and Google Ads
- A free Canva account
- Google Chrome as your main browser
- Free marketing platform accounts, such as Meta Ads Manager, as each module begins
Digital Media Production
Video computerSoftware to buy
- Adobe Creative Cloud Pro, with Adobe student pricing for DWC students once enrolled (step-by-step directions)
Set up before class
- The Creative Cloud desktop app, then Premiere Pro, After Effects, Photoshop, and Illustrator from inside it
- An external SSD for video project files, if your internal drive is under 1TB
Video apps are the most demanding software in any DWC program: 16GB of memory is the minimum and 32GB is better. Test Premiere Pro and After Effects early.
Excel Master Program
Standard computerSoftware to buy
- Your own Microsoft 365 subscription with the desktop apps, including Excel. The Copilot features in the program are included in Microsoft 365 Personal, Family, and Premium.
Set up before class
- Desktop Excel, signed in and activated
The free web version of Excel does not include every feature covered in the program.
Frontend Web Development
Standard computerSoftware to buy
- No paid software is required
Set up before class
- Visual Studio Code
- Git and a free GitHub account
- Node.js (includes npm)
- Google Chrome for development and testing
Other free tools and frameworks, such as React and MongoDB, are installed with your instructor as the curriculum reaches them.
IT Support Specialist (CompTIA A+)
Standard computerSoftware to buy
- No paid software is required. CompTIA-approved study materials are purchased separately.
Set up before class
- Practice tools are provided or assigned by your instructor
Exam voucher details are on the program page.
Network Technician (CompTIA Network+)
Standard computerSoftware to buy
- No paid software is required. CompTIA-approved study materials are purchased separately.
Set up before class
- Free lab tools installed with your instructor: GNS3, Wireshark, pfSense, and VirtualBox
Labs run virtual machines, so 16GB of memory matters here, and virtualization must be turned on in your computer settings. Some lab software is built for Intel and AMD processors; if you have an Apple silicon Mac, talk to your advisor before the program begins.
CompTIA Security+
Standard computerSoftware to buy
- No paid software is required
Set up before class
- Labs run in your browser through CompTIA CertMaster Labs; your instructor sends access details
Project Management
Standard computerSoftware to buy
- No paid software is required. The PMI authorized student materials kit is required; see the program page.
Set up before class
- A free Jira account, set up in Module 1
- A free Google account for shared class documents
QuickBooks Bookkeeper
Standard computerSoftware to buy
- Your own Microsoft 365 subscription with the desktop apps, including Excel
Set up before class
- A current browser for QuickBooks Online: Chrome, Edge, Firefox, or Safari on a Mac (Intuit requirements)
- Your instructor sends directions for the QuickBooks Online company file you will use in class
QuickBooks Online runs in your browser, so there is nothing to install.
UX Design
Design computerSoftware to buy
- No paid software is required. Figma's free plan covers everything in the curriculum.
Set up before class
- A free Figma account and the Figma desktop app, signed in
- FigJam (included with Figma) and a free Canva account
- Google Chrome as your main browser
Figma also offers free education access to verified students and teachers.
Buying a computer
Need a computer for class?
A new or certified refurbished computer from a reputable seller is the safest choice. Certified refurbished machines are inspected, restored, and warrantied by the manufacturer or retailer, and they are often the best value for students.
Manufacturer refurbished
Best warranty coverage. Apple Certified Refurbished includes the same one-year warranty as a new Mac.
Retailers
New, open box, and refurbished. Best Buy Outlet includes Geek Squad certified refurbished; Costco has an extended return window on electronics.
Tips when buying refurbished
- Match the specs for your program type above, especially memory (RAM) and SSD storage.
- Look for at least a 90-day warranty; one year is better.
- For a laptop, check that the battery lasts a full 3 to 4 hour class, or plan to stay plugged in.
- Skip computers that shipped with Windows 10 unless the listing confirms they run Windows 11.
FAQ
Computer and software FAQs
Do I need two monitors for DWC classes?
No. What helps is screen space: enough room to watch your instructor in Zoom and work in your own software at the same time. One large monitor split side by side, a laptop plus an external monitor, or two monitors all work.
Can I use a Mac for DWC classes?
Yes, for most programs. Use macOS 14 (Sonoma) or later. Two exceptions: Power BI Desktop in Data Analytics runs only on Windows, and some Network+ lab software does not run on Apple silicon Macs. If either applies to you, talk to your advisor before your program begins.
Can I use a Chromebook, tablet, or phone?
No. Chromebooks, tablets, and phones cannot run the desktop software used in DWC classes. A phone is fine as a backup for joining Zoom audio.
How much memory (RAM) does my computer need?
16GB for every program. Digital Media Production needs 16GB at minimum, and 32GB is recommended for video editing.
Is software included in tuition?
No. Computers, equipment, and software are not included in tuition and cannot be purchased through DWC. Many programs use only free tools; the programs that need paid software are listed on this page.
Do DWC students get student pricing on Adobe Creative Cloud?
Yes. DWC students get Adobe student pricing on Creative Cloud Pro once enrolled. On Adobe’s student pricing page, enter your payment details, then on the next page choose School level: Other, School name: Digital Workshop Center, and Primary area of study: Design, Web, Multimedia, and enter the month and year your program ends. Adobe may ask for proof of enrollment.
What internet speed do I need for live classes?
A high-speed home broadband connection. For full HD group video, Zoom lists 3.8 Mbps up and 3.0 Mbps down, so plan for more if others share your connection. A wired connection or strong Wi-Fi works best.
What if my computer does not meet the requirements?
Talk to your advisor before your program begins. A certified refurbished computer from a manufacturer or a reputable retailer is often the best value, and the buying tips on this page help you check a listing.
Enrolled students
Need help with your setup?
Reach DWC tech support by Slack, email, or phone, or start with the welcome guide.
Choosing a program?
Ask before you buy
An admissions advisor can tell you exactly what your program needs before you spend anything.
Software vendors update their requirements with each new version; the vendor pages linked here have the latest details. Student pricing, plans, and eligibility are set by each vendor and can change. Computers, equipment, and software are not included in tuition and cannot be purchased through Digital Workshop Center. Adobe, Creative Cloud, Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Premiere Pro, After Effects, and Firefly are trademarks of Adobe; Microsoft 365, Copilot, Excel, Power BI, and Windows are trademarks of Microsoft; macOS is a trademark of Apple; Figma, Zoom, QuickBooks, CompTIA, and other product names are trademarks of their owners.