The School of Architecture requires all students to have a laptop portable computer and specific software for use in instructional courses. The list below provides suggested computer specifications and expected software for students in the School of Architecture. Many students will find that their current equipment will accommodate required software. The hardware and software specifications are meant to be a guide.

Hardware Expectations
As an FIU studeent you are eligible to purchase hardware with educational discounts from Dell laptops and Apple laptops. Students are expected to possess a laptop with technical specifications similar to, or better than, the Dell Studio series or MacBook Pro series.

Software Expectations
As an FIU studeent you are eligible to purchase software with educational discounts from UTS Shop Software. All students are expected to possess the latest version of Autodesk AutoCAD, Autodesk Maya 8.5, Adobe Creative Suite Design Premium, SketchUp, Rhino and a video editing program such as Adobe AfterEffects or Final Cut Pro. Additional software may be required for certain courses.

Security
It is recommended that students purchase both hardware and software security systems for their laptops. Many computer companies sell both hardware and software security systems for their laptops.