Computer & Software Recommendations
While the Communication Department doesn't require you to purchase an Apple computer, we strongly encourage you to do so. There are many reasons for this, but most importantly all computers used by students and faculty in the department are Apple. Also, most assignments and projects from department courses require using Apple software.
For this reason, we recommend a high-performance Apple MacBook computer, and a selection of software, peripherals, and service and support. With a MacBook, built-in wireless technology, iLife digital media applications, Microsoft Office, and more, students can create video, photography, music, and audio that meet the basic requirements of a converging media.
In short, if you are (or will be) a communication major and you intend to buy a new computer, we strongly encourage you to consider an Apple. However, if you do not intend to buy a new computer, or you aren't able to, we don't want you to think you are requried to do so.
There is a computer lab in the Communication Department, loaded with all software necessary for communicaiton courses, that you may use for any assignments or projects that can't be completed on a PC. In addition, there are a limited number of Apple computers available for use in the UTC computer lab, located in the University Center, which can be accessed at times when the departmental lab is closed.
Why your next PC should be a Mac
Source: Apple - Get a Mac, on the Internet at http://www.apple.com/getamac/.
Apple Store Discount
Through a special education arrangment with Apple, UTC communication students qualify for discounts on all tools needed to meet the technical proficiency requirements of journalism and mass communications.
Special offers from Apple and a number of third-party vendors are available through the Apple Online Store and at Apple Store locations (Tennessee has an Apple Store in Nashville and Knoxville).
If you purchase a computer in-store during the state's sales tax holiday (see below), you can combine the two discounts for extra savings. Please contact the Apple Store nearest for complete details.
Sales Tax Holiday
Don't forget that you can take advantage of Tennessee's sales tax holiday to buy a new computer. During these holidays, computers with a purchase price of $1,500 or less, not for use in a
trade or business, are exempt from tax. Laptop computers, if priced at $1,500 or less, also
qualify. Additionally, there is no requirement that purchases be made only for students, so your friends and family can make purchases for you.
Check with your computer retailer ahead of time to see if they offer student discounts that can be combined with the sales tax discount if purchased during the holiday.
