Computer Recommendations for Students

Computer Recommendations for Students

Overview

This article offers recommendations for students regarding evaluating and/or purchasing a computer to be brought to campus. While these recommendations might also have value for faculty and staff regarding personal purchases, for information regarding replacing/upgrading university-owned equipment, please see Related Articles.

Before We Begin - Check with Department/Program

Some colleges, departments and programs on campus have specific requirements as to the hardware and software needed to participate as a student.

For example:

• College of Education, Health and Human Studies has specific requirements for students participating in Education Preparation programs - link
• Department of Mass Media has specific requirements for students taking classes within the Department of Mass Media that are at the 300-level and above - link

Check with the department and/or advisor to see if there are any applicable requirements for hardware or software.

No Specific Requirements - Existing or New Computer?

If the student's chosen field doesn't have an specific hardware or software requirements, and the student already owns a computer, that computer should be evaluated to ensure it will meet the University's minimum requirements. If not, a new device may be needed.

What About Chromebooks?

While a Chromebook will work fine for email, Portal, and web surfing there are considerations when using it for document creation/management and online classes. There may also be some software that is required for some classes that is incompatible with Chromebook. Due to these limitations, it is not recommended for use as a student’s primary computer.

Evaluating Existing Computer

If a student already owns a computer and wishes to bring to to campus, it should meet these minimum requirements

Purchasing New Computer

If purchasing a new computer, the following specifications are recommended:

Additional Considerations