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Wonsook Kim College of Fine Arts undergraduate majors covered on this page include:
Wonsook Kim College of Fine Arts Graduate Programs include:
Much like the fine arts world, the Wonsook Kim College of Fine Arts gravitates towards the Macintosh platform. However, with the exception of a one or two software titles specific to a program or sequence, a Windows platform will work just as well. The two dominant software suites (Microsoft Office and Adobe Creative Cloud), operate mostly the same regardless of it running on a Windows or Macintosh machine.
The need for mobility is imperative in the computer purchasing process. Therefore, the Wonsook Kim College of Fine Arts recommends a laptop over a desktop. Although it is possible to successfully complete some coursework with only a desktop computer, students may find themselves more dependent on the use (and availability) of on-campus computer labs, or their fellow students, for accomplishing some of the required course and project work. Netbooks, tablets, and eReaders will not work as a primary device for Wonsook Kim CFA students. While these devices can handle class notetaking and email, they do not meet the specifications for creating multimedia-rich content.
The Wonsook Kim College of Fine Arts recommends that students maintain computers less than four years old with a warranty. Students may wish to purchase through Illinois State University’s TechZone Sales Center, in the Bone Student Center, which has many models of laptops on display that can be tried out in-store. The TechZone also provides academic discounts and is an authorized repair service for Apple, Dell, HP and Lenovo computers.
A computer that meets the minimum specifications below will be sufficient for most programs:
Models sold at TechZone that meet these requirements are found at the end of this page. More advanced models can be found by selecting home at the top of the screen.
TechZone recommends a primary computing device with a full-featured Windows or Mac operating System. Chromebooks, iPads, and some entry-level Windows devices are not sufficient for all needs across the University but can be used as secondary devices.
The university provides the Microsoft Office365 suite of software, in both online and locally installable versions, plus the equally paramount Adobe Creative Suite, at no extra cost. The result is that potential employers know our graduates will have experience with these two industry-leading platforms.
Office365 is a service, available to all faculty, staff and students at Illinois State University. It allows you to:
Need assistance installing Microsoft Office? Visit TechZone Service Center in the Bone Student Center for in person assistance or watch either of the following videos: Windows or MacOS
Adobe Creative Cloud is available to students, request access at Adobe at ISU
With Microsoft Office 365, Illinois State University campus leverages the benefits of OneDrive cloud storage. All students will have 1TB of online storage, making OneDrive an excellent utility for backing up files, sharing files with others, and retaining files needed while being mobile. For some larger projects, such as video and music creation, an external hard drive might be useful to have. Students should consult with their advisor, or instructor, if they have any questions.
