Replying to PC for college

There are a bunch of other threads but everyone's situation is different. I'm looking to get a new computer for college next year, I'll be doing engineering. I currently have an ipad and an acer laptop that's almost filled and slow as hell. I'll be bringing both with me and I think I should be able to get through first year with them, but the laptop is a pain to use. Should I get a better laptop or a desktop? I'd like to be able to play games and edit videos. If I get a desktop I'm down to use those sites that put together parts to make a custom for you.