Music Laptop Requirement
In This Section
What is required?
Technology is a significant part of all music student’s education. To successfully complete undergraduate work as a music major or minor, students are required to own an Apple laptop with specific software titles. Courses like music theory, music technology, arranging, and others will utilize this computer for projects both in and out of the classroom.
The requirements for music majors fall into Tier 1 and Tier 2 categories. Please look closely at the descriptions below. Most music students will fall under the Tier 1 category, and Commercial Music, Studio Production, and Composition majors under Tier 2.
Tier 1
13-inch MacBook Air with M1 processor
8GB of RAM
512GB of SSD storage
Who: All music major and minor students (except Commercial Music, Studio Production, and Composition majors) are required to own at least a Tier 1 computer.
Tier 2
16-inch MacBook Pro with M1 processor
16GB of RAM
512GB of SSD storage
Who: For Commercial Music, Studio Production, and Composition students, a computer is a significant tool for creating music and is an integral part of completing the required coursework for a music degree. Commercial Music, Studio Production, and Composition students are required to own at least a Tier 2 computer.
Additionally, all music major and minor students are required to purchase the following:
- Logic Pro X — only available from the Mac App Store
- USB-C to USB adapter (Apple)
And while not required, it is highly recommended you purchase an external, bus-powered USB drive that is at least 1TB in size. This device can be used for backup needs in addition to large file storage.
Where can I purchase a laptop?
While you have the option to purchase this equipment from any authorized reseller, Apple has provided a website for CBU students with discounted pricing. Please use the link below to see available pricing and options.
Additionally, Apple is offering a special application bundle right now that includes 5 of their Pro Applications, including Logic Pro X, for the same cost as Logic Pro X by itself. Please use the link below to see available pricing and options.
I have more questions. Who can I contact?
Please send an email to musiclaptop@calbaptist.edu for questions not covered here.