Technology Requirements

onboarding devices prep

Overview

To ensure the best experience at CBU, whether online or on-campus, it is important your equipment meets certain requirements. It is recommended you bring your own computer to class.

The best equipment, is the equipment you are comfortable using. It is generally recommended that you bring a laptop and another device (such as a smart phone) to your class, however, be sure to check your syllabus, as some instructors do not permit personal devices in their classrooms.

Additionally, these requirements are generalized for all programs. It is possible that your personal use may need greater or higher specs. For example, video editing, statistics, and 3D modelling will require higher-end computers compared to essay writing.

CBU provides public desktop computers in the Library, and Computer Labs on campus. You can find out more about our Computer Labs here.

Please note that all computers in the Computer Labs around campus meet the hardware and software requirements for your academic needs.

Hardware

All computers should meet the minimum requirements here.

CPU:
- For Windows: Intel i5 or AMD Ryzen 5
- For Apple: Apple M4.
RAM: 16GB.
Storage: SSD with at least 512GB of storage space.
GPU: Integrated graphics card.
Other: USB A, and USB C.

Software

All computers should have an operating system equivalent to Windows 11 or macOS 14.

Always ensure your software is up-to-date.

All students are given a licensed with Microsoft Office 365 that is paid for by your tuition. Several other software programs, such as SPSS, are also available here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What devices are not recommended?

Chromebooks and tablets are also not recommended for academic use as they cannot support the majority of software that some programs require.

I require a specific type of device due to my disability. Is there a way to acquire one?

You can contact the Jennifer Keeping Centre and request accommodations, including equipment such as sound-cancelling headphones, laptops, and screen readers. Go here to learn more.