Recommended Computer Specs for Students

Students are encouraged to bring a laptop of their own to campus. Owning a laptop computer gives students mobility with wireless Internet access available across the campus. 

Technology is continually decreasing in price, and personal computers have become more affordable with every passing year. It is now possible to purchase a laptop at the cost of less than $1,000, which will remain functional for your entire university career. When shopping for a computer, keep in mind that any computer meeting the minimal configuration listed below will work well to do homework and access the internet. Contact Network & Computer Services at 605-642-6580 if you have questions. They will be happy to discuss computing needs and current market pricing with you. 

Computers connected to the BHSU network must have a licensed copy of Windows 10, Windows 11, or MacOS (only versions currently under Apple support). In addition, they need the latest operating system patches/service packs and up-to-date antivirus software. i5 and i7 processors and 8 GB of memory are highly recommended. 

Computers with the following operating systems are not allowed to connect to the network: Windows 8.1 and earlier or MacOS versions no longer supported by Apple. Linux distributions are permitted with their latest patches but may not be fully supported.

GENERAL RECOMMENDED 

Windows Computers

• Processor: Latest Processor
• Memory: 8 GB
• Hard Drive: 256 GB or larger Solid State Drive (SSD)
• Operating System: Windows 11

Mac Computers

• Processor: Latest Processor
• Memory: 8 GB
• Hard Drive: 256 GB or larger Solid State Drive (SSD)

NOTE: iPads, Chromebooks, and Android devices are not recommended as primary devices for schoolwork. These might not be able to run required software for some classes.

PHOTO/GRAPHIC RECOMMENDED

Photo and Graphic courses require certain applications which need at least 16GB of RAM and a dedicated GPU (NO ONBOARD GRAPHICS).

Here is the full list of recommended/minimum specs for students taking Graphic/Photo courses.

View BHSU Recommended Systems Here