Computers and Technology

Purchasing a Computer

Swenson College students are required to have a laptop. Here's why:

  • Some courses require students bring laptops to class to access important tools and information
  • Most college procedures like registering for classes are handled online
  • Students must use email to communicate with faculty and staff
  • To access data in the UMD library and on the internet

Computers are available for checkout through ITSS if needed, but for a limited time.

You are welcome to purchase a laptop from where you like as long as it meets the technology requirements. Our unit recommends the UMD Computer Corner which offers Mac and Windows laptops and accessories with excellent features and prices often below retail. Required technology purchased at the UMD Computer Corner is sales-tax free. Additional computer and tablet insurance is available through the UMD Computer Corner or check with an insurance agent. 

All UMD students are able to include the cost of a personal computer in their request for Financial Aid. Inquire at the UMD One Stop for detailed information. Financial Aid Cost Information

If you have concerns about specific software running on your computer, consult with your department. While Mac and iOS are popular, many engineering applications are best utilized on a Windows platform.

General Laptop Requirements (minimum)

  • Windows 11 or Mac OS (15 or newer)
  • Look for a multi-core CPUāœ¶
  • At least 8GB RAM (16GB preferred)
  • 256 GB hard drive/SSD (512 GB preferred

Also recommended:

  • HDMI external display adapter (for classroom presentations)
  • 3-4 year Service/Maintenance plan
  • Antivirus and anti-malware software is strongly recommended for any computing device or smartphone.

Software Requirements

Other software might be required for certain courses, but our computer labs have all the software typically needed. If you plan to purchase your own software, check with your department or instructors to find out what might be required.

Software Licensed by Swenson College

We maintain the licenses for some specialized software including ESRI ArcGIS Desktop, MATLAB, and JMP Genomics (SAS). ITSS can assist you with installing and licensing issues so feel free to contact their support team if you have questions or requests.

Spreadsheet Skills

All Swenson College majors use a spreadsheet application at some point in their courses.

It helps to have some skill in using spreadsheets before you start classes here. Many online training written and video resources are available - search for "Microsoft Office Training" or similar terms.

Department of Civil Engineering

UMD Civil Engineering strongly encourages a Windows-based laptop. A Mac will not allow you to fully participate in course activities as there is software you need to use that will not run natively on a Mac or on a Windows VM (virtual machine). 
 
We recommend:
  • PC/Windows 11 laptop
  • Intel i7 / U7 / R7
  • At least 16 GB RAM
  • At least 512 GB SSD
Students often install engineering programs directly on their own laptops and these specs work well with that. 
 
Students have access to Civil Engineering lab computers with engineering software. They also have access to BYOD virtual network as a way to access campus engineering programs via their laptops.