To ensure the quality and consistency of technology-enabled instruction, students and faculty at St. Edwards University should have the equipment listed below.
Please recognize that these are the minimum requirements, and exceeding them improves the learning and working experience.
- Note: Some majors have higher requirements; consult your instructor for details.
- The Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) requires a laptop or desktop that runs the Microsoft Windows operating system. See information on higher requirements below for details.
- Note: Faculty in the Munday School of Business recommend that all business students, especially those in Accounting, Finance, and Marketing, consider use of Windows-based platforms instead of Macs because of software compatibility.
This article covers:
Use this checklist to ensure you meet the minimum technology requirements:
Scroll for detailed specifications of these requirements.
- Computer: Laptop (required) with the latest Windows or macOS versions.
- Note: Students who only take online courses can meet this requirement with a desktop computer.
- Drive Space: Sufficient storage space for the operating software and additional software needed for courses.
- RAM: Sufficient RAM to run the operating software and any additional software needed for courses.
- Webcam: A built-in feature of most laptops.
- Microphone: A built-in feature of most laptops.
- Web browser: Current or recent versions of industry-standard web browsers.
- Internet Access: 5 - 15 Mbps (typical LTE connection). Check your speed at fast.com.
- Earphones: Earbuds, AirPods, or headphones for videoconferencing in a shared space.
For an improved experience, we recommend exceeding these requirements.
Other considerations
- Chromebooks, smartphones, or tablet devices may be good for supplement use, but we recommend that you do not use them as your primary device.
- Review the standards, guidelines, and procedures for acceptable use of university information technology (IT) resources, which apply to all users.
- Core instructional technologies have specific minimum technology requirements. Visit the links below for more information:
Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA)
The Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) program requires the use of advanced computing tools across various courses. To ensure your success, you must have a personal computer with capabilities that support the program's technical requirements. Since you are making a significant investment in your education, it is essential to equip yourself with a computer that allows you to complete assignments efficiently and effectively.
Important Requirements:
Rationale:
-
Certain software used in the MSBA curriculum is compatible only with Windows.
-
Mac/Apple laptops are not compatible with required tools such as Power BI and Arena, which are essential for course activities and assignments. If you choose to use a Mac, please note that the program cannot provide technical support to help run these Windows-only tools on macOS (e.g., through virtualization or dual-boot systems). You will be responsible for finding and maintaining your own solutions to ensure compatibility.
Please review these requirements carefully and ensure that your device meets them prior to the start of your coursework.
All Students in the Munday School of Business (MSB)
Faculty in the Munday School of Business recommend that all business students, especially those in Accounting, Finance, and Marketing, consider use of Windows-based platforms instead of Macs because of software compatibility.
What do these requirements mean? Can you provide specifications to check my computer or buy a new one?
Sure! We recommend purchasing a computer with the following specifications:
- Computer: A laptop computer with at least Windows 10 22H2 or macOS 11 Big Sur(or newer operating system versions)
- CPU: Dual Core 2 GHz or higher (Intel i5/i7, Apple M1, or AMD Ryzen 3000 equivalent)
- Web browser: Current or recent versions of industry-standard web browsers (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, Safari, etc.). Chrome is recommended, but having at least two web browsers as a backup is also advisable.
- Drive Space: At least 30 GB of free disk space. For a new computer, we recommend getting at least 256 GB of storage for the operating system and additional software.
- RAM: 8 GB RAM or more. For a new computer, we recommend getting at least 16 GB of RAM.
- Webcam: Most computers have built-in webcams, but external webcams can be purchased for those that do not. Minimum specs: 720p HD, autofocus and cross-platform compatibility (Windows or macOS).
- Microphone: Built-in microphones are common, but external microphones can also be purchased if needed.
- Internet Access: 5 - 15 Mbps (typical LTE connection). Check your speed at fast.com.
For an improved experience, we recommend exceeding these requirements.
Just by being St. Edward's students, faculty or staff, you can receive discounts on software for your personal computers as well as the computers themselves. See our support article to get access to discounted software and hardware.
What about when my laptop breaks? Can OIT help?
Yes! If you're without a device for a short period (say, your MacBook is being repaired at the Apple Store) but have classwork to complete, we can help. Short-term loaner laptops are available for students by request.