Laptop Requirements

Technology is deeply integrated into the music program at APU. To successfully complete their undergraduate courses, all music majors are required to own an Apple laptop with Logic Pro installed, along with the listed accessories. All music theory, music technology, arranging, composition, and orchestration classes will use this laptop and software combination as the centerpiece for both student projects and classroom teaching.

All commercial music majors are required to own a laptop that meets the Tier 2 specifications. Although Tier 2 is recommended for all students, those who are not commercial music majors are only required to own a laptop that meets Tier 1 specifications. All music majors must purchase the listed software and accessories.

Tier 1 Laptop Specifications

These are given as minimum specifications; any laptop being considered must meet or exceed them. Please also note that it may be possible to find a refurbished laptop from Apple that meets these requirements at a significant savings over buying a new laptop.

Minimum Required

13" MacBook Pro (3 years old or newer)
8GB RAM
128GB SSD Drive

Tier 2 Laptop Specifications

Minimum Required for Commercial Music Majors

15" MacBook Pro (3 years old or newer)
16GB RAM
256 GB SSD Drive

Required Accessories

Logic Pro X (Purchased through the App Store on your laptop)
A USB MIDI Controller Keyboard, like the M-Audio Oxygen or similar

Setup and Installation

All music majors will need to schedule an appointment in the MIDI Lab to install and configure their software. Further details will be available as part of the Introduction to Music Technology course at the start of the semester.

If you have any questions, contact Michael Lee, director of music technology, at mlee@apu.edu.

Note: This information is current for the 2024-25 academic year; however, all stated academic information is subject to change. Refer to the current Academic Catalog for more information.