Many of the courses in the CCM Division majors are computing intensive and require the use of highly specialized software, which is why we continue to maintain and expand our outstanding computer labs and classrooms. Specific hardware and software needs vary tremendously by course and by program, and it can be costly and difficult for students to keep their computers as up-to-date and as fully equipped as our labs. Here is some general information based on program of study:
Suggested Game Laptop
Minimum Game Laptop
Recommended Windows Laptop
Example Models for 2024/2025
Dell Inspiron 16 ($849 as configured above)
Most of the majors in the ITS Division are computing intensive:
These programs require the use of highly specialized software, which is why we continue to maintain and expand our outstanding computer labs and classrooms. Specific hardware and software needs vary tremendously by course and by program, and it can be costly and difficult for students to keep their computers as up-to-date and as fully equipped as our labs.
Some general guidelines:
Most small computers sold through retail venues or the major online distributors (laptop, desktop, or mini-tower) are generally adequate for a student’s coursework both in and out of the ITS Division at Champlain College. A lightweight laptop combined with a comfortable docking station (e.g. ergonomic keyboard and mouse combined with relatively high-resolution dual monitors) is much more useful than an overpowered desktop. Especially when purchasing a laptop, but also for desktop purchases, it is important to be sure your computer comes with a warranty.
Minimum guidelines for MOST majors
If you are planning to purchase a new computer or upgrade an existing computer, the following are minimum requirements for most majors. The configuration would accommodate most students’ needs for the first two years. It may be beneficial to upgrade for the junior and senior courses.
Computer Science & Innovation Major – LAPTOP REQUIRED with the following minimum specifications for 2024/2025
12th or 13th generation i5 Intel Microprocessor, Apple M2 Microprocessor, or AMD Ryzen 6000+ mobile series (U series)
Example Models for 2024/2025
* Game Programming students should look at the requirements listed in the Game Studio specifications.
The main instructional campus has wireless access in classrooms and common areas, which makes a PC or Mac laptop the ideal choice for business students at Champlain. The information below applies to the following majors:
Laptop: Personal Computer or Mac | Minimum Configuration
The specifications below can be applied to configure either a Windows laptop or a Mac laptop. Mac users may also need to acquire a licensed copy of a Windows operating system for their Mac computer, depending on software requirements for classes.
*Game Business & Publishing and Game Production Management students should look at the requirements listed in the Game Studio options below.
Constant access to a computer will be important, but the choice of laptop or desktop platform is largely a matter of a student’s preference. The campus provides robust wireless access, so a laptop computer is especially practical for group projects and working in the library or classrooms.
Game Studio majors:
While all Champlain College students have lab access that includes the computers and software needed for all courses, it is highly suggested that students come prepared with a laptop or desktop computer.
We recommend a laptop rather than a desktop computer because of its portability and flexibility in various classroom settings, and for doing the group work associated with our Game Studio game development classes. Homework for all majors in the Game Studio will necessitate the need for a computer with specific processing speeds and graphics capabilities that will allow you to both develop and test/play the games you make on your computer.
PC Specifications
Students in Game Art, Game Business & Publishing, Game Design, Game Production Management, Game Programming, and Game Sound Design should purchase a PC with a Windows operating system. Game Business & Publishing and Game Production Management students should need only the minimum specifications. This will allow you to test/play games, but you don’t need as much speed, graphics, and storage as the developers.
Suggested:
Minimum:
Mac Specifications (Game Sound Design only)
All of the sound classrooms and the recording studio on campus use Mac computers and software, so we recommend a Mac computer for Game Sound Design students. However, comparable software for PC is available, so you may choose between Mac or Windows operating systems.
Suggested:
Minimum: