Computer Requirements For Catholic University Students: What You Need

does catholic university have a required computer for student

The Catholic University of America provides its students with a range of technology resources and support. While there is no mention of a required computer that students must use, the university does offer recommendations and guidelines for purchasing technology for personal use. The university also provides students with access to specific software and applications to support their academic pursuits.

Characteristics Values
Computer requirements The Catholic University of America does not appear to have a required computer for students. However, students are expected to have basic computer skills and programs, such as navigating the internet, accessing library resources and services, and using office applications. The university provides a list of technology recommendations for students, including purchasing technology for personal use with reduced educational pricing.
Technology resources The university provides a range of technology resources for students, including wired and wireless networking, access to computer labs and software applications, video conferencing tools, and online learning environments.
Technology support The university's Technology Services offers support for computing equipment, software applications, and network connectivity. They also provide resources for purchasing technology, such as hardware and software, with university funds or for personal use.

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Computer hardware recommendations for students

When choosing a computer, it is important to consider your budget, the technical specifications, and your personal preferences. Here are some recommendations to help you make an informed decision:

Operating System

It is recommended to use a laptop with either a Windows or macOS operating system (OS). These operating systems offer a wide range of features and compatibility with various software applications. They also provide a flexible working environment, allowing you to work anywhere on campus. While tablets and Chromebooks are convenient for note-taking and simple tasks, they may not have the computing resources required for more specialized software.

Processor and Storage

When purchasing a computer, it is advisable to opt for the fastest processor speed available within your budget. Additionally, look for a computer with a solid-state drive (SSD), which offers faster performance and improved reliability compared to traditional hard disk drives. The storage capacity should be at least 256 GB to accommodate your documents, projects, and other files.

Memory

Memory, also known as RAM, is another crucial factor. Aim for a computer with as much memory as possible within your budget. Having sufficient memory will enable your computer to run multiple applications smoothly and efficiently.

Ports and Connectivity

Ensure that your laptop has an adequate number and variety of ports to support the peripherals you plan to use, such as external storage devices, additional displays, or other accessories. It is also beneficial to have a built-in ethernet port or a USB Ethernet adapter for a wired internet connection, as this can provide better network performance than Wi-Fi.

Battery Life and Size

Consider the battery life of the laptop and ensure it can last through your classes without needing to be charged. Additionally, pay attention to the size and weight of the device. You want a laptop that is portable and convenient to carry around campus without being too bulky or heavy.

Warranty and Accident Coverage

It is highly recommended to purchase an extended warranty for your laptop, preferably one that covers accidental damage, such as spills or drops. A warranty with walk-in repair options is ideal, as it minimizes the time you will be without your device during repairs.

University Recommendations

Your university may have specific recommendations or partnerships with certain brands or vendors. For instance, Santa Clara University recommends Dell and Apple computers for their reliability, consistent components, and quality parts. They also offer special pricing for certain configurations. Check with your university's IT department or website for specific suggestions and resources.

Remember to order your laptop well in advance, preferably 3-6 months early, to avoid any supply chain-related delays and ensure you have your device before the start of your classes.

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Software for students

The Catholic University of America provides a rich learning experience for its students, and technology is a key part of this. The university recommends that students have access to certain software to aid their studies.

All full-time students at Catholic University are provided with a pre-provisioned Microsoft Office 365 account. This includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint and OneNote. Students can access this software by going to www.office.com and logging in with their CUA credentials.

The university also has a license for Texthelp Systems Read&Write, which students can download after logging on with their Cardinal Credentials and agreeing to the license terms.

Students are also expected to have basic computer skills and knowledge of certain common productivity applications, such as:

  • Word processing (e.g. MS Word)
  • Graphics editing (e.g. Paint, Paintbrush)
  • Presentation applications (e.g. MS PowerPoint, Prezi)
  • Spreadsheets (e.g. MS Excel)

Students are also expected to be able to navigate the internet, access library resources and services, and install programs to participate in video conferences and webinars.

The university offers reduced academic prices for software in the Campus Bookstore, located on Michigan Avenue, and online at OnTheHub.

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Technology services for students

Technology Services is the central IT department at Catholic University. The department provides access to high-quality, state-of-the-art computing, communications, and information resources.

Administrative Services

This includes the lifecycle management of and data integration for the University's ERP system and other enterprise applications. Administrative services involve planning, implementing, developing, operating, and maintaining these applications and functions in coordination with administrative offices.

Business Service Center

The Business Service Center is the IT business office. It facilitates the process of evaluating and purchasing technology at the University.

Collaborative Services

Collaborative services available to the University community include email, calendaring, file sharing, telephone, and audio/video conferencing.

Instructional Services

Instructional services primarily manage the University's Course Management System.

Security Services

Security services focus on ensuring the integrity of the University's information systems and assets, protecting them from unauthorized access, modification, or destruction of data. Services include identity (Cardinal Credentials) and access management.

Technology Infrastructure

Infrastructure services include the campus data network, Internet access, campus telephones, servers, central storage systems, and office technology, including desktop computers and network printers. It also includes data centers, virtualization technology, cloud services, and backup/recovery technologies that support these services.

User Services

User services include a technology helpline and a staffed Service Desk during weekday hours, providing support for University-owned desktop and laptop computers, software, and network printers in offices, University classrooms, and computing labs. They also help individual users make effective use of technology services.

Web Services

Web services include technical support for University websites and the development of custom web applications.

Technology Recommendations and Discounts

Technology Services recommends that students include an extended warranty with accidental damage coverage when purchasing notebooks or higher-end tablets. Students should use a wired connection whenever possible on campus to achieve the best network performance. To do this, ensure the computer has a built-in ethernet port or purchase a USB Ethernet adapter.

Students can also take advantage of reduced academic prices for software at the Campus Bookstore and OnTheHub.

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Technology services for staff

Technology Services is the central IT department at Catholic University. The department provides access to high-quality, state-of-the-art computing, communications, and information resources.

Administrative Services

This includes the lifecycle management of and data integration for the University's ERP system and other enterprise applications. Activities include planning, implementing, developing, operating, and maintaining these applications and functions in coordination with administrative offices.

Business Service Center

The Business Service Center is the IT business office. It facilitates the process of evaluating and purchasing technology at the University.

Collaborative Services

Collaborative Services available to the University community include email, calendaring, file sharing, telephone, and audio/video conferencing.

Instructional Services

Instructional Services' primary offering is the management of the University's Course Management System.

Security Services

Security Services focus on ensuring the integrity of the University's information systems and assets, and protecting against unauthorized access, modification, or destruction of data. Services include identity (Cardinal Credentials) and access management.

Technology Infrastructure

Infrastructure Services include the campus data network, Internet access, campus telephones, servers, central storage systems, and office technology, including desktop computers and network printers. It also includes the data centers, virtualization technology, cloud services, and backup/recovery technologies that support these services.

User Services

User Services include a technology helpline and a staffed Service Desk during weekday hours that provide support for University-owned desktop and laptop computers, software, and network printers in offices, University classrooms, and computing labs. They also help individual users make effective use of technology services.

Web Services

Web Services include technical support for University websites and development of custom web applications.

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Technology services for faculty

Technology Services is the central IT department at Catholic University. The department supports the University by providing access to high-quality, state-of-the-art computing, communications, and information resources. Technology Services offers multiple programs for accessing networks, computing, and information resources. The services offered by the department can be explored by category on the Catholic University website.

Administrative Services

The Administrative Services team handles the lifecycle management and data integration of the University's ERP system and other enterprise applications. They work closely with administrative offices to plan, implement, develop, operate, and maintain these applications and functions.

Business Service Center

The Business Service Center is the IT business office of the University. It facilitates the process of evaluating and purchasing technology.

Collaborative Services

Collaborative Services available to the University community include email, calendaring, file sharing, telephone, and audio/video conferencing.

Instructional Services

Instructional Services primarily manage the University's Course Management System.

Security Services

Security Services focus on ensuring the integrity of the University's information systems and assets, protecting against unauthorized access, modification, or destruction of data. Services include identity (Cardinal Credentials) and access management.

Technology Infrastructure

Infrastructure Services include the campus data network, Internet access, campus telephones, servers, central storage systems, and office technology, including desktop computers and network printers. It also includes data centers, virtualization technology, cloud services, and backup/recovery technologies that support these services.

User Services

User Services include a technology helpline and a staffed Service Desk during weekday hours that provide support for University-owned desktop and laptop computers, software, and network printers in offices, University classrooms, and computing labs. They also help individual users make effective use of technology services.

Web Services

Web Services include technical support for University websites and development of custom web applications.

Frequently asked questions

Catholic University does not require students to have a computer, but students are expected to have basic computer skills and knowledge of certain computer programs.

Yes, students are expected to have basic computer skills and knowledge of certain computer programs, such as navigating the internet, accessing library resources and services, and using office applications.

Yes, Technology Services at Catholic University recommends that students include an extended warranty with accidental damage coverage when purchasing notebooks or higher-end tablets. Students should also use a wired connection whenever possible on campus to achieve the best network performance.

No, students cannot purchase technology with university funds. However, they can purchase hardware and software at reduced educational pricing through various online retailers.

Yes, Catholic University provides students with a pre-provisioned Microsoft Office 365 account and access to the Texthelp Systems Read&Write software. The University also offers reduced academic prices for software in the Campus Bookstore and through OnTheHub.

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