While not a campus-wide requirement, many students consider having a personal computer extremely helpful in completing coursework and utilizing the university's online services. Some academic departments have specific technological requirements for students:
- Computer and Information Science
- Patterson School of Accountancy
- School of Education
- School of Engineering
- School of Pharmacy
Minimum System Specifications
The following systems are intended to be guidelines for purchasing. Some IT Partners offer discounts for the purchase of new systems. For questions about how well your current system will work, call the IT Helpdesk at (662) 915-5222.
| Windows PC | |
|---|---|
| Processor: | Core i5 or better |
| RAM: | 16 GB |
| Solid-State Drive (SSD): | 500 GB or larger |
| CD-ROM Drive: | DVD±RW/CDRW (optional) |
| Operating System: | Windows 11 |
| Network Card: | Gigabit Ethernet port or adapter |
| Wireless: | 802.11 ac |
| Warranty: | 3-year onsite service and support with accidental damage coverage |
| Software: | Microsoft Office |
| Mac | |
|---|---|
| Processor: | M series |
| RAM: | 16 GB |
| Solid-State Drive (SSD): | 500 GB or larger |
| CD-ROM Drive: | Apple USB SuperDrive (optional) |
| Operating System: | Latest MacOS |
| Network Card: | Gigabit Ethernet port or adapter |
| Wireless: | 802.11 ac |
| Warranty: | AppleCare+ Protection Plan |
| Software: | Microsoft Office |
For Online Courses
There are special technical considerations for students taking online classes.
Hardware
The computer you'll be using for online classes should have a camera, microphone, speakers or headphones, and an Internet connection. If you are looking to purchase a new computer, review the system specs below.
Network
Access to a capable Internet connection is required for all online activities. Video conferencing requires more download bandwidth (to watch video) and upload bandwidth (to use your camera) than just regular surfing the web. Test your bandwidth to see how well it performs. We recommend a download bandwidth of at least 1.5 Mbps (megabits per second) and an upload bandwidth of around 600 kbps. Anything below those numbers may result in video lagging.
Options
- In case of slow or limited internet capacity or bandwidth, turning off video, when possible, will improve performance of online audio connectivity.
- Assuming your Internet service plan offers the necessary bandwidth, but you're just not getting the connection speeds they promise, there are a few things you can try. If you are on Wi-fi, try moving to a location closer to the router. Also, consider connecting directly to the router with an ethernet cable. A wired connection should provide your peak network speed.
- If you are using a mobile device for video conferencing, avoid using cellular data unless you have an unlimited data plan. Going over your data plan can be expensive.