The MBA in Design Strategy program, and the business world it serves, relies upon digital communications. Accordingly, the program requires its students to have access to a laptop computer and recommends certain software programs that represent the standards of business work and communications.

In addition, we've compiled a list of recommended books, films, websites, etc. to help orient people to our perspective on how new business techniques, design-led innovation, and sustainability come together.

Laptops

Students are required to use a laptop computer with a minimum 13" screen and WiFi access. Students can choose any Windows or Macintosh laptop (the latest models of Macintosh computers also run Windows).

The college recommends the 15-inch MacBook Pro. Students may opt for the 17-inch MacBook Pro if a larger screen is desired. Educational Technology Services offers a MacBook Pro bundle.

Alternatively, students may use a tablet device in class, such as an iPad, as long as its operating system is capable of supporting either of the software packages below (the iPad now supports the iWork software). Realistically, students with tablets should have access to a laptop or desktop computer at home or work in order to complete assignments.

Software

The program requires students to use standard business software (word processor, spreadsheet, and presentation application):

  • Microsoft Office ($85, estimated CCA price); OR
  • Apple iWork ($71, $30 for iPad, estimated CCA price)

Optionally, students may want to have access to "design" applications, such as photo manipulation, HTML production, illustration/drawing, and page layout. However, it's not necessary to purchase and use professional-level tools such as the Adobe Creative Suite.

Student Discounts

The college has agreements with Apple, HP, and software distributors to offer discounts to CCA students:

Books

* Note: Many of these titles are available to CCA students, staff, and faculty at the CCA Libraries. Take advantage of the online catalog that allows searching by category such as sustainability-related resources. Also, although these resources are derived from faculty recommendations, none represents an official endorsement by the college.

Communication, Collaboration, and Leadership

Strategy and Business Design

Economics and Metrics

Organizational Culture

Sustainability and Social Innovation

Design and Customer Experience

Entrepreneurship

Recommended Films

Recommended Articles

Recommended Videos

Recommended Websites

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Second Student Annual

The 2009-2010 Student Annual catalogs the student work and experience of the MBA in Design Strategy program's second year.

DMBA In the News

Listen to the BusinessWeek podcast.

Read the Core 77 interview.

Contact

For questions about the MBA in Design Strategy program, please email us.

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Visit

To visit the program, including courses in session, please email us. In addition, guests visiting CCA can receive a discount on their lodgings just for being a part of the CCA community. Each of the SoMa Hotels (specifically the Good Hotel, the Carriage Inn, and the Americania Hotel) will honor a special discount rate for guests who mention "CCA" when making reservations. For complete hotel contact information, see Special-Rate Lodging.

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