FAQs

Welcome to the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section! Here, we’ve compiled answers to common queries to provide you with quick and concise information. If your particular question isn’t listed, don’t hesitate to contact us, and we’ll do our best to provide you with a helpful response.

What are laptop requirements and recommendations?

Before purchasing a laptop, we recommend contacting your department to confirm your choice.

Below are the minimum suggested specs; better/faster/larger/newer is fine as long as supported by applicable application software.  Information regarding software compatibility is available here: https://helpx.adobe.com/creative-cloud/system-requirements.html

Apple MacBook Pro

Educational discounts are available at Apple Stores or the Apple online educational store (https://www.apple.com/us-hed/shop).

  • Processor: M1 Pro or Better
  • Memory: 32GB unified Memory
  • Hard Drive: 512GB SSD storage or betterAppleCare 3-year protection plan: Highly recommended

Windows PC

  • Windows 10 Pro 64-bit OS or Windows 11
  • Processor: 64-bit Intel® Xeon, or i-Series processor with Intel® or AMD equivalent. Highest affordable CPU speed with multiple cores recommended
  • Memory: 32GB of Memory
  • Graphic Card: Supported NVIDIA® or AMD graphics card with OpenGL 4.3 support and a certified driver. 8GB Memory minimum.
  • Hard Drive: 512GB SSD3-yr protection plan: Highly recommended

Required Software:

Adobe Creative Cloud: Provided through CSUN for all registered students
Microsoft OfficeAvailable for free at: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/education/products/office

What areas of concentration does CSUN Communication Design Program offer?

CSUN’s Communication Design Program offers three areas of concentration which are Brand Design & Strategy, Entertainment Advertising Design, and Interaction & Experience Design.

How do I get involved?
    • SAGA is an inspiring and dynamic student club dedicated to fostering a thriving design community. Through engaging design challenges, exciting group outings, and thought-provoking speaker events, our passionate students actively encourage and promote the art of design. Stay up-to-date with our latest activities by following SAGA on Instagram @csunsaga.

    • IntersectLA (IXLA) is a collective organization of driven CSUN students, passionately dedicated to crafting transformative experiences that empower businesses, organizations, and communities. With a relentless focus on creative collaboration and innovative design, our interdisciplinary team strives to elevate and inspire.

Need help with advising?

To schedule an appointment email: art_advising@csun.edu
Phone number: (818) 677-2348
Hours: Monday thru Friday 8am – 5pm
Appointments: 9am-12pm; 1pm-4pm
Webpage: https://www.csun.edu/mike-curb-arts-media-communication/art