Student Laptop Recommendations

While Terry does not have a blanket computer requirement, some programs, including the Terry MBA program, require students to own a laptop. Many undergraduate and graduate courses also require access to a Windows-based laptop. Check with your program advisor to determine specific requirements.

The University of Georgia Bookstore has vendor relationships that offer students a competitive price. Visit the UGA Bookstore website to buy a laptop configured and priced for UGA students.

Recommended Laptop Specifications

PC or Mac? Business Runs on Windows.

At Terry, the standard operating system is Windows 10 or higher. Since Windows OS owns 69% of the usage share of operating systems, learning Windows is an important part of your skill set.

Terry’s Office of IT (OIT) recommends you do not purchase a Mac if you are not prepared to deal with the added complications, cost, and time required to install Windows (in a Virtual Machine or Dual Boot) on a Mac. Since many business software applications do not run on MacOS, some Terry courses require access to a Windows-based computer. Open lab hours are available during limited periods where students can gain access to a Windows desktop that may have their required software installed.

Alternatively, UGA’s vLab makes University-supported software available to students, faculty, and staff on their personal computers (Mac/PC) and tablets. While not all of UGA’s supported software is installed on the virtual lab, some applications, including Microsoft Office, SPSS, STATA, and MATLAB are available in a limited capacity. For more information, visit: https://eits.uga.edu/support/vlab/.

Tablets?

iPad or Android tablets work great for note-taking, browsing, and information consumption. However, you will need a laptop for homework and other activities utilizing software requiring Windows or MacOS (vs. iPadOS). Be prepared to bring your laptop on days when faculty require laptops for in-class activities.

Hardware Recommendations

  • Processor
    Intel Core i5, i7, i9 – 12th generation or newer
    AMD Ryzen 5, 7, 9 – 6000 series or newer
  • RAM
    Minimum 16GB, recommended 32GB
  • Storage – Solid State Drive
    Minimum 256GB, recommended 512GB
  • Graphics Card
    A dedicated GPU is not required
  • Network Card
    Wireless AC, AX
  • Ports
    HDMI output or compatible with adapters (such as USB-C)
  • Screen
    1920×1080 or higher (minimum resolution 1024×768)

Other Options to Consider

  • A 3-year accidental warranty
  • Quality integrated webcam, or external webcam
  • Surge protector
  • Stable high-speed internet connection

Laptop Support

It is each student’s responsibility to ensure his/her laptop is functioning properly and is able to connect to the PAWS Secure wireless network. Computer repair is available at the UGA Bookstore. See the UGA Bookstore Technology Center for hours and information.

Test Your Laptop

  • Ensure your laptop is set up for UGA’s Learning Management System, eLC, by running a System Checker
  • If enrolled in a Terry Online course, check Blackboard Collaborate Ultra recommendations (Hint: Use Google Chrome)
  • If enrolled in a Terry Online course, check Examity requirements (Hint: Look at “Q: I don’t know if my computer meets the Examity requirements.”)

Free Office 365 ProPlus for Students

UGA students can install Microsoft Office 365 ProPlus for free on up to five devices with Windows or Mac operating systems through the Student Advantage program. Office 365 ProPlus includes Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and more. Learn more about the Student Advantage program.

Business Learning Community Team Rooms

As part of the Business Learning Community development, Terry has Team Rooms available for students to reserve for studying, project collaboration, and other course-related activities. Each room is equipped with a monitor display, available HDMI connection for laptops, and white boards. Students can visit the Office of IT Service Catalog for more information on these rooms and how to reserve them.