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Bring Your Own Device - Creative Media Programs
All of the Creative Media programs (Digital Art and Design, Media and Communications, Web and Interactive Development) are Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) programs that require students to own or acquire a laptop with different specifications than other BYOD programs.
Students in these programs will use their laptops both on campus and at home throughout the duration of their studies. This laptop will also be a tool after graduation, supporting students in their chosen career field.
While cost is an important consideration, investing in a modern and powerful laptop will significantly enhance your learning experience. Since not all components can be easily upgraded after purchase, it’s wise to consider the expected lifespan of your device. You may want to increase the RAM or upgrade the CPU beyond the minimum specifications we provide to ensure long-term performance.
Specifications For The 2025-26 Academic School Year
PLEASE NOTE: If enrolling in the Web and Interactive Development program, we do not recommend purchasing a MAC as your device. You may encounter significant differences in software when using a MAC and demonstrations will largely be done on a PC. If you already own a MAC and choose to use it for this program, you will be responsible for adapting to these differences to meet course requirements.
PC
| Operating System | 64-Bit Operating System Windows 11 Home is acceptable and runs all required creative software. However, students who want advanced features such as BitLocker encryption, remote desktop hosting, or more administrative control may prefer Windows 11 Pro. |
| CPU (Processor) | 8-core (or better) processor i7 14th generation or newer or i9 13th generation or newer |
| Screen Size | 15" or larger with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 or better |
| Graphics Card | Dedicated Graphics card with 8GB GPU VRAM or better Laptops must include a true dedicated graphics card with a minimum of 8 GB of dedicated VRAM. Integrated GPUs (such as Intel Iris Xe, Intel Arc A-series, or AMD Radeon 780M) are not sufficient, even when marketed as “high-performance” options. For optimal performance with industry software like After Effects, Blender, and Unreal Engine, we recommend NVIDIA RTX 4060 or better. |
| RAM (Memory) | 32GB or more |
| Hard Drive | 1 TB SSD (Solid State Drive) or greater |
| Video Camera | Integrated or external USB webcam |
| Audio | Speakers and microphone (built-in or external) |
| Wireless | Working WIFI with current standards (802.11ac) |
| Ports or Adaptors | SD card reader If your device does not come with these ports, be sure to purchase the |
MAC
| Operating System | 64-Bit Operating System MacOS Monterey Version 12 or newer |
| Processor | 8-core or better CPU *Older chips may also be acceptable if other requirements are met. If buying new, we recommend M4 Pro or M4 Max. |
| Display | 16" screen Liquid Retina XDR Display or similar |
| GPU | 18-core GPU |
| Memory | 36GB unified memory or more |
| Hard Drive | 1 TB SSD (Solid State Drive) or greater |
| Video Camera | Integrated or external USB webcam |
| Audio | Speakers and microphone (built-in or external) |
| Wireless | Working Wi-Fi with current standards (802.11ac) |
| Ports or Adaptors | SD card reader If your device does not come with these ports, be sure to purchase the |
Connectivity
Speed
High speed internet, minimum 5 Mbps.
- To test connection speed
- Speedtest.net
- Fast.com
- From google.ca or google.com, search for “internet speed test” and click Run Speed Test.
Your home network will also be a strong factor in your remote learning experience.
- If using a modem and/or router supplied by your Internet Service Provider (ISP), ensure they are current and up-to-date. Contact your ISP to find out.
- If using your own wireless router, ensure that it supports current Wi-Fi specifications, including, but not limited to, 802.11ac, 802.11n, MIMO, or Dual Band (2.4GHz and 5GHz).
- Wired connections to your router are going to offer the best connectivity.
- For Wi-Fi connections, proximity and line-of-sight will offer a better connection and speed. Avoid walls, floors, and objects where possible.
- Other users and devices on your home network will also affect your connection speed and quality.
- Avoid using streaming services, such as Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, etc. while doing remote learning.
Mobile Devices and Tethering
Strong signal, minimum 5 Mbps
- Note that expanded use of your Internet connections may cause you to exceed your monthly data plan allowance. Unlimited data plans, such as Rogers Infinite or Telus Peace of Mind, are recommended.
Please refer to the ITS Knowledgebase for further information and any questions you may have about using your device and troubleshooting issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of buying the device I'm required to?
Prices will vary depending on which device you choose to purchase and where you purchase it. The price range of these different options will likely be $2700 - $3700.
An investment in these supplies will extend beyond your time in this program, well after graduation.
Is there financial assistance available?
Yes, Manitoba Student Aid considers the three Creative Media programs among those requiring higher computing needs than what is standard. They will approve up to $3000 for a device and all other tools and supplies. Please note, Manitoba Student Aid funding is not available to international students.
If you are a sponsored student, please communicate with your sponsor.
Many manufacturers offer student discounts or education pricing. You may want to look into taking advantage of those options.
If I already have a laptop, can I just use that?
If your laptop meets the minimum required specifications outlined in the above labelled as minimum, you may choose not to purchase another device. Please check your device against those specifications to ensure it will be able to handle the work. If your laptop does not meet those specifications, you will encounter issues running software or completing work.
I have a computer, but I need to talk to someone about it to see if it’s going to meet the requirements. Who should I reach out to?
You can contact the School of Business [email protected].
If I have a desktop computer that meets the minimum specifications, can I use that?
No, since these programs require you to bring your device to campus, a desktop computer is not a viable option for your program.
Can ITS help me if I'm having issues with my laptop?
Refer to ITS Knowledgebase for assistance with common issues before contacting the IT Service Desk.
What ITS can support:
- Logging into Assiniboine programs and services, including the college WiFi network.
- Assisting installation of Assiniboine applications
What ITS cannot support:
- Data recovery
- Hardware repair/replacement/acquisition
- Virus/Malware removal
See Policy G61: ITS Support for BYOD Programs for more.
Is there a student-discount or college rate if I purchase my computer from a specific company/supplier?
The college does not have a negotiated rate or student discount with any specific supplier. We encourage you to a bit of research online to see which companies may have education/student pricing. (For example, Apple Canada has education pricing that you may find helpful.)
Can I buy a used computer from the college?
No, our college does not have a new or refurbished laptop purchasing program.
Can I borrow a computer from the college?
No, we do not have a college laptop loaning program for the Creative Media programs.
I have a friend who is also starting in this program. Can we share a laptop?
No, you will both need your own laptops as they are used daily in this program.
How do I print from my device while on campus?
Students can use printing.assiniboine.net on their device.