Computer Resources & Requirements听
All students entering the schools of architecture, interior architecture, and landscape architecture 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.听
Please note that all entering architecture, interior architecture, and landscape architecture students MUST purchase one of the specified systems through VolTech, UT鈥檚 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.听
If you have financial concerns about the purchase, please don鈥檛 hesitate to contact the . The experts there are familiar with our computer requirements and can advise you on funding options.听
2026 Computer Requirements
These requirements apply to all students in the schools of architecture, interior architecture, and landscape architecture beginning courses in the summer or fall of 2026.
About Your Technology Package 听
Reliability, support, and productivity in relation to professional CAD and graphics applications have been key criteria in developing these specifications.
These online packages include all required hardware plus the Rhino software application. V-Ray and other free software downloads must be acquired separately by the end user.听 See 鈥淣otes Regarding Software鈥� below for more information on required software.
Students beginning our program in the fall should purchase all systems through VolTech by July 22, 2026. Technology packages can be ordered online or in person at the VolShop in the Student Union.
Purchase Your Technology Package
You will be contacted by VolTech once your order arrives.听
Regarding the Use of Macs听
Computers running Microsoft Windows are required for the architecture, interior architecture, and landscape architecture programs. Macs no longer meet the requirements of the programs.听
Technology Package Purchasing Exceptions听
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.听
For inquiries regarding exceptions to the VolTech purchasing requirement:
Technology Requirements for Graphic Design Students听
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 platform that is robust enough to run Adobe Creative Cloud will suffice for entering first year graphic design students.
Please note that MacBook Neos, Airs, iPads, and Chromebooks ARE NOT acceptable. We also strongly recommend against any computer with a screen size less than 15鈥�.
Software听
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.听
- 听
- :听Revit is required for architecture and interior architecture students only.听 3D Studio Max is optional.听
- : ArcGIS is required for architecture and landscape architecture students only.
- Rhino: Rhino 8 licenses are available for in-store pick up at VolTech.听
- : Architecture and interior architecture students will be advised on purchasing V-Ray at a later date.听
Questions? 听
For inquiries regarding VolTech purchasing procedures and hardware upgrades:听
VolTech
UT Student Union Level G3
(865) 974-2930
voltech@utk.edu听
For inquiries regarding the technical specifications included in the technology package:听
