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Student Computer Needs for GrC Students

GrC is a diverse field comprising both creative and management positions. As such, GrC students are expected to know both Macintosh and Windows platforms and have access to either computing environment. Extensive use of the Macintosh platform is used in the Design Reproduction Technology concentration, Web and Digital Media concentration, and lower division GrC core classes. Windows applications are used in the Graphic Communication Management Concentration and several upper division GrC core classes.

Incoming GrC students are encouraged to purchase an Apple Macintosh computer. Laptops are particularly desirable for their portability. MacBook Pro is a popluar choice with at least 4GB Memory and 350 GB Hard Drive (minimum).

Cal Poly's University Store offers significant student discounts for software. GrC students will be introduced to the following software programs as they progress through their coursework: Microsoft Office, and Adobe's Creative Suite (Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe InDesign, Acrobat Professional). Students may acquire the programs as they progress in the major.

Electronic Publishing Lab

The Electronic Publishing Laboratory (EPL) is open to GrC students and is equipped with 18 iMacs with the latest versions of the software. EPL Open Hours are announced during the first week of Fall, Winter and Spring quarters (closed during Summer quarter). GrC students may use the EPL computers at no charge during EPL Open Hours. Output and printing is handled through UGS Print & Copy (click here for pricing).

Student Discounts

For more information on student discounts for hardware and software, visit Cal Poly's University Store web site (click on the Technology tab) to find out more information on student specials, back to school specials, etc.