Music Laptop Requirement
What is required?
Technology is a significant part of every music student's education. To successfully complete undergraduate work as a music major, students are required to own an Apple laptop with specific software titles. Courses such as music theory, music technology, arranging, and others will use 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 Studio Production and Composition majors under Tier 2.
Tier 1
13-inch or 15-inch MacBook Air with M4 or M5 chip
16GB of RAM
512GB of SSD storage
Who: All music majors (except Studio Production and Composition majors) are required to own at least a Tier 1 computer.
Tier 2
14-inch or 16-inch MacBook Pro with M5 Pro chip
24GB of RAM
512GB of SSD storage
Who: For 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. Studio Production and Composition students are required to own at least a Tier 2 computer.
Additionally, all music major students are required to purchase the following:
- Logic Pro, available only from the
- USB-C to USB adapter ()
While not required, it is highly recommended that you purchase an external, bus-powered USB drive of at least 1 TB. This device can be used for backup and large-file storage.
In the School of Performing Arts, computer software is increasingly essential to the creative and technical aspects of the arts, with certain courses requiring specific programs for coursework and projects. Student must ensure they have access to and proficiency with the necessary software for their classes. Students are expected to manage their software needs independently, including acquiring and maintaining any software required by their courses.
If students have difficulty procuring or using the required software, they must contact their instructor immediately to make other arrangements. The School of Performing Arts computer lab is equipped with most of the hardware and software needed to complete classroom assignments. If students do not have access to personal copies of the required software, they should use the computer lab.
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.