Computer Resources & Requirements
All entering architecture, interior architecture, and landscape architecture students are required to purchase specified hardware and software.
The required hardware and software ensure you have a robust computer system appropriate for preparation as a professional designer. The computers are high-end machines designed for intense, professional use and with care will last throughout your years here. Reliability, support and productivity in relation to professional CAD and graphics applications are key criteria in the specification of the technology package.
Please note that all entering architecture, interior architecture, and landscape architecture students MUST purchase one of the specified systems through VolTech, UT’s official technology store. Anyone wishing to deviate from this requirement in any way must first obtain prior approval from college administrators. See below for details and contact info.
If you have financial concerns about the purchase, please don’t hesitate to contact the financial aid office at OneStop. The experts there are familiar with our computer requirements and can advise you on funding options.
2025 Computer Requirements
These requirements apply to architecture, interior architecture, and landscape architecture students beginning coursees in the summer or fall of 2025.
About Your Technology Package
Reliability, support, and productivity in relation to professional CAD and graphics applications have been key criteria in developing these specifications.
Students beginning our program in the fall should purchase all systems through VolTech by July 21, 2025. Technology packages can be ordered online or in person at the VolShop in the Student Union.
There are two Dell and two Lenovo mobile workstations to choose from. These online packages include all required hardware plus the Rhino software application. V-Ray and the free software downloads must be acquired separately by the end user. See “Notes Regarding Software” below for more information on required software.
Purchase Your Technology Package
You will be contacted by VolTech once your order arrives.
Regarding the Use of Macs
Computers running Microsoft Windows are required for the architecture, interior architecture, and landscape architecture programs. Macs no longer meet the requirements of the programs.
Technology Package Purchasing Exceptions
In certain exceptional circumstances, and only with the explicit permission of the director of your program of study, students may be allowed to purchase hardware from sources other than VolTech. If this is the case, you will still be required to purchase the required Rhino software application from VolTech.
For inquiries regarding exceptions to the VolTech purchasing requirement:
Technology Requirements for Graphic Design Students
Our graphic design students should have a laptop that is robust enough to run the latest version of Adobe Creative Cloud. Any Mac or Windows laptop that is robust enough to run Adobe Creative Cloud will suffice for entering first year graphic design students.
Please note that we DO NOT recommend iPads or Chromebooks. We also strongly recommend against any computer with a screen size less than 15”.
Software
There is a variety of software that is required for students in the college, as well as additional software that can be downloaded at no additional cost.
- AutoCAD, Revit, and 3D Studio Max: Revit is required for architecture and interior architecture students only. 3D Studio Max is optional.
- ArcGIS: ArcGIS is required for architecture and landscape architecture students only.
- Rhino: Rhino 8 licenses are available for in-store pick up at VolTech.
- V-Ray plugin for Rhino subscription: V-Ray for Rhino is required for all entering landscape architecture students. Architecture and interior architecture students will be advised on purchasing V-Ray at a later date.
Questions?
For inquiries regarding VolTech purchasing procedures and hardware upgrades:
VolTech
UT Student Union Level G3
(865) 974-2930
voltech@utk.edu
For inquiries regarding the technical specifications included in the technology package:
