Laptops are required along with a headset or headphones with a microphone. For all computers, we recommend having a power strip with surge protection. NOTE: Extension cords are not allowed in the residence halls.
College-specific Requirements
The following are college-specific requirements and minimum specifications. For more specific information please check with your academic program.
- College of Arts and Sciences: Mac OS or Windows 10 laptops
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences: Mac OS or Windows 10 laptops
- Law school: Windows 10 laptops. More information can be found at Drake Law School Technology Resources
- School of Education: Mac OS or Windows 10 laptops are acceptable for all undergraduate or graduate programs
- School of Journalism and Mass Communication: Mac OS laptops. More information can be found at Equipment for Incoming SJMC Students
- Zimpleman College of Business: Mac OS or Windows 10 laptops
Minimum Specifications
For Mac Laptops:
- MacBook 2017 or newer model or MacBook Air with M1 chips 2020 and newer with at least 8 GB of ram (16 GB preferred)
- OS V 12 or higher and the ability to be updated to the latest version
See https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT213264 for the current model list
- AppleCare extended warranty
- Solid State hard drive (SSD) or M.2 style Hard Drive
For Windows Laptops:
- Minimum I7-6000 series laptop or AMD equivalent with at least 8 GB of ram (16 GB preferred)
- Windows 10 OS
- 3- or 4-year extended warranty with accidental damage protection
- Solid State hard drive (SSD) or M.2 style Hard Drive
What Not to Bring
The below items are either insufficient or unable to be used on campus networks:
- Chromebooks, MacBook Air laptops (2019 or older with Intel chips), tablets, or Windows RT or 10 S devices
- Smart devices like Amazon Alexa or Google Home as our networks require increased security that doesn't work with these devices
- Printers – students get $20 per semester to print at printers located across campus.
Software
All students are eligible for free software, including the latest versions of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint) for Mac or Windows. Software is available beginning 30 days prior to the start of the fall semester. See the Software Downloads link in myDrake for more information. Check with your college/school to see if they require additional programs for your major(s).
Computer Discounts
Hewlett-Packard (HP) (Drake's PC vendor)
Apple Discount Page for Drake
Other manufacturers may also provide student discounts, please contact them directly.