Computing Resources
In the Department of Architecture, you will depend upon personal computers for communications, scheduling, research and personal work. Computer use is also required in many courses. The Olver Design Building has a forty seat classroom and a flexible laptop lab adjacent to the Department of Architecture Studios. It is open for student use when classes are not in session. There are other computer workstations available in the Learning Commons at the UMass library. While you may find these resources useful, it will be difficult for you to be productive without your own laptop computer. The University provides many software packages for free and others at a significant educational discount. Before purchasing hardware or software, it is worth reviewing the resources available to you.
Download Computer Advice for Incoming Students (PDF).
Plotting and Digital Fabrication
The Design Building has a plotter room adjacent to the computer lab with large format plotters.
The Design Building features a digital fabrication lab featuring laser cutters, 3d printers, a cnc router, and a vacuum former. Equipment is available for academic assignments and research projects.
Information, hours, and trainings are available on the fab lab blog: Digital Design + Fabrication Lab
The 2023-2024 TA is Emma Picardi (epicardi@umass.edu).
UMass Amherst Information Technology
First stop for all things UMass and technology, including your email account and academic software purchases, visit the UMass Amherst Information Technology website.
Other Important Links include:
Free & Discounted Software for Students
Adobe Campus Agreement Program
Microsoft Campus Agreement Program
UMass USave Hardware Discounts
JourneyEd.com - educational pricing on many products
