Foundations of Film & Video Computer
Starting in Fall 2009, all incoming Film & Video students will be required to take the Foundations of Film & Video curriculum which replaces the existing Core. These students are required to be able to edit off-site as well as to perform other internet-based learning activities.
Hardware and Software Specifications
Our recommended buy is a 15” MacBook Pro with the following minimum specifications (new as of June 1st):
- 15-inch: 2.66GHz
- 4GB memory
- 320GB hard drive
- SD card slot
- NVIDIA GeForce 9400M + 9600M
GT with 256MB
Additionally, we recommend that students acquire the software bundle Final Cut Studio 2 as well as office productivity software and an external 500GB Firewire800 drive.
We recommend that you buy the software bundle through our campus Apple Store and wait until August to do so. You cannot get a better price. You can also buy the computer there with an educational discount.
FAQs
Q. Why did you choose this configuration?
A. The Foundations curriculum was and continues to be tested in a three year pilot. After extensive research this configuration was chosen due to its power and durability with respect to the activities most filmmakers must perform. This computer should last throughout your stay with us. Additionally, given our numbers, we had to choose a single platform for which our staff can provide support.
Q. When I entered the program in the Fall of 2008 this was not required, I couldn’t get into any F&V classes this semester, do I still have to buy this computer?
A. No, any student entering the program prior to Fall 2009 may take the existing Core curriculum. You should contact an appropriate faculty advisor who can explain your options and work with you to develop an academic plan. For more information, contact Don Smith (dsmith@colum.edu, 312.369.6717) or Katie Kosinski (kkosinski@colum.edu, 312.369.6935).
Q. When I entered the program in the Fall of 2008 this was not required, I couldn’t get into any F&V classes this semester, I just bought a very cool MacBook but not a MacBookPro, I’d prefer to take the new curriculum, do I need to buy a whole new computer?
A. No. We understand there will be a transition period over the next few semesters and we can work with you. For more information, contact Don Smith (dsmith@colum.edu, 312.369.5717) or Katie Kosinski (kkosinski@colum.edu, 312.369.6935).
Q. I have a screaming Dell with the latest Premier software which I can work in my sleep, can I use that?
A. Yes. We understand there will be a transition period over the next few semesters and we can work with you. You will need to notify your instructor the first class meeting to determine what your workflow will be. Our technical staff is not guaranteed to be able to support your configuration.
Q. I have a desktop Mac G5 with Avid software, can I use that?
A. Yes. We understand there will be a transition period over the next few semesters and we can work with you. You will need to notify your instructor the first class meeting to determine what your workflow will be.
Q. Have you seen how much these things cost?
A. Yes. This is a robust and sturdy computer which you can use throughout your time at Columbia and beyond. The filmmaking process combines creative ideation with technical proficiency and skill. This configuration gives you the best chance of being able to keep up with requirements of advanced classes. We also are changing the course fees for these classes. While the final amount has not yet been determined, the difference between the existing core course fees and the new course fees for Foundations will be a significant financial offset.
Q. What is the bottom-line cost?
A. The educational price for our recommended computer is $1,850. The cots for the drive is between $175 to $250. The educational price for Final Cut Studio is $400. The bottom-line cost is roughly $2,500. See a Student Financial Services counselor to see how aid can be applied to this purchase.
Q. I have $300 laptop and that is the maximum I can afford, can I participate?
A. We realize that over the next several semesters, some students will not be able to obtain the recommended configuration. We will continue to run an open lab for students to complete editing and other tech-heavy work on site. You will be able to participate in most off-site activities with your existing computer provided you have an internet connection.
Q. When you say, “minimum specification”, what does that mean?
A. If you just won the lottery and want to trick out your system, feel free. The minimum is the minimum.
Q. Where can I buy this stuff?
A. We strongly recommend that you buy the configuration through the Columbia College Chicago Apple Store on the ground floor of the 33 E. Congress Building. This will assure that you get maximum savings for the entire package. http://www.colum.edu/applestore/index.php
Additionally, there are a variety of third party outlets which in some cases can be competitive. Apple has released a new generation of MacBook Pros. This means that good deals can be made for the existing inventory over the next several weeks. It pays to shop around.
There is a robust market for used and refurbished units but again, the best pricing and support is through the Apple Store at Columbia.