IT and equipment
So you are ready to start your postgraduate programme, we have compiled a list of IT and equipment that we think you would find useful.
None of the materials on the list below are compulsory, but you may find them useful for your studies. If you have other graphics materials then bring them along - there is always room to experiment. buy things as you go along. You may find it best to source materials as you need them.
There is a School shop within the Architecture and Landscape Print and Make Workshop on campus where you should be able to get some of these materials once you have started with us.
- Recommended materials
A3 Cartridge paper sketch pad and bulldog clips. We will be drawing outside weather permitting so bulldog clips are essential if it is windy.
A3 pad of Layout paper or similar. This is a lightweight paper which is useful for technical drawing.
A roll of tracing paper or ( much cheaper) baking paper/ greaseproof paper. Try not to get one that is too ‘waxy’
Selection of pencils 2B or softer. It would also be good to have a few soft pastels and or charcoal.
Technical drawing pens. A small selection of disposable fibre tip pens of different sizes Coloured Pencils. You don't need to buy many (10 to 15) but try to get good quality, for example, Berol, Caran D'ache.
Watercolours. Small box set, student quality and a large brush (no smaller than size 10).
Scale rule. This should include the following scales, 1:10, 1:100, 1:20, 1:200, 1:5, 1:500, 1:1250, 1:2500. The triangular (in section) scale rules are the easiest to work with.
Model making. It is useful to have your own scissors, masking tape, glue, modelling knife and plasticine. For some modules, students will have to supply their own model-making materials, usually in the form of cardboard, base boards, scale figures, balsa wood and vegetation.
Digital camera. Phone cameras are fine provided the image is of a suitable quality. You will need it for: field trips, site surveys, plant identification, recording your studio work and taking pictures of your design models.
- Recommended IT
An Intel i7 (or equivalent) processor or higher, at least 16GB RAM. PC or Mac is down to personal preference
A dedicated graphics card of at least 2GB, instead of one that's integrated into the motherboard (this isn't essential but will help when 3D modelling
In addition, you may need to bring appropriate clothing for working outdoors which includes a waterproof coat, walking boots/waterproof shoes and an umbrella. We do a lot of site visits outside, so come prepared!
School facilities to support your learning
Media Unit
The Media Unit is based on Floor 15 of the Arts Tower. It offers a photography studio, digital ink workstations, an expansive equipment loan service.
IT Support
IT support is also available from the IT Service Desk: 0114 222 1111. The IT Service Desk telephones are staffed from Monday - Friday / 8am - 5pm.
Print and Make Workshop
The Print and Make Workshop is located below the Arts Tower car park, and is open Monday - Friday / 8.30am - 4pm. Services include materials sales, large format colour scanning and plotting, A3/A4 printing and copying, plan printing and copying, 3D scanning and printing, wire binding, vinyl printing and technical support.
