This service is for students.
Do I need to bring a computer to campus?
ITS strongly encourages all students to have personal access to a computer, laptop, or tablet for your academic learning. This is increasingly important as more and more course content is delivered online.
While it is not required, laptops gives you greater flexibility where you study and how you complete course assignments. A limited number of desktop computers are available in computer labs on campus. Please note that these labs may have limited building hours and are only available on a first come basis.
Should I buy a new Mac or PC computer?
The brand of device is up to you! You may prefer one type of device or brand over another based on your personal experience and comfort level. Some disciplines may encourage or require specific platforms. For example, Engineering generally uses Windows PC while Digital Media Arts commonly uses Mac. If you have a specific field of study in mind, ITS recommends contacting the academic department to ask if they recommend a specific type.
Recommend computer specifications for Windows PC
| Feature |
Minimum |
Recommend |
| Processor |
Intel (i5) or AMD (Ryzen 5), 2.0 GHz, 2-core |
Intel Core i7 or AMD Ryzen 7, 3.0 GHz or higher, 4+ cores |
| Operating System |
Windows 10 x64 latest version |
Windows 11 latest version |
| Memory |
8 GB RAM |
16 GB RAM |
| Storage |
256 GB (SSD) |
500 GB (SSD) |
| Display |
13" |
14" or 15" 1920 x 1080 resolution or greater |
| Wi-Fi Adapter |
802.11.ac 2.4/5 GHz |
802.11.ac 2.4/5 GHz or greater |
| Other |
Webcam (internal or external), carrying
case, Bluetooth, USB port(s)
|
Webcam (internal or external), carrying case, Bluetooth,
multiple USB ports (USB-A and USB-C if possible).
HDMI or DisplayPort for connecting to external monitors.
|
Recommended computer specifications for Apple/Mac
| Feature |
Minimum |
Recommended |
| Processor |
Intel i5 or higher, 2.0 GHz, 2-core |
Apple M1 8-Core CPU or better |
| Operating System |
macOS 12 Monterey |
macOS 14 Sonoma |
| Memory |
8 GB RAM |
16 GB RAM |
| Storage |
256 GB |
500 GB (SSD) |
| Display |
13" |
15" or greater |
| WiFi adapter |
802.11.ac 2.4/5 GHz |
802.11.ac 2.4/5 GHz or greater |
| Other |
Webcam (internal or external), carrying case, Bluetooth, USB Port(s)
|
Webcam (internal or external), carrying case, Bluetooth, multiple USB ports (USB-A and USB-C if possible).
HDMI or DisplayPort for connecting to external monitors.
(strongly recommend having an adapter to facilitate HDMI/Displayport, ethernet, and additional USB A and C)
|
Chromebooks
While you will be able to access email, Canvas, Zoom, and other resources from a Chromebook, some coursework might require you to access software that is not accessible on a Chrome device. For this reason, we recommend using a PC or Mac if possible.
Where can I buy a new computer for college?
If you are interested in purchasing a new computer or software check out the Tech Store. St. Thomas currently does not directly sell personal hardware or software, but Apple, Dell, Lenovo, and other vendors provide educational discounts on computers, printers, scanners and select software just for being a college student!
Student assistance available
Students in the Dougherty Family College (DFC) program will receive technology support during the Student Enrichment Program for incoming students. In addition, you can contact the DFC Dean's Office if you are uncertain about your technology resource access outside of class.
Undergraduate or graduate students who have been hit by financial hardship and do not have home internet access or a personal computer/device to use when remote learning is necessary should contact Jesse Langer (Dean of Students Office) at jjlanger1@stthomas.edu for assistance.
To report a problem or receive additional troubleshooting, please contact the Tech Desk.