System Recommendations for Faculty

The following recommendations give minimum requirements, recommended, and advanced criteria for a computer for faculty at Thomas University. Recommendations are given for both Windows and Mac computers and for both laptops and desktops.

• The minimum requirements represent the oldest and least powerful computer a student could use to access Blackboard and Collaborate which are required for all online and hybrid courses as well as for some face-to-face courses. As new technology is developed, the minimum requirements could change. A system meeting the minimum requirements may not be viable for much longer than one year.
• The recommended system represents the least powerful system, and possibly the least expensive, that a student could purchase new. A system meeting the recommended requirements should be viable for 3-4 years.
• The best system represents an additional investment to upgrade hardware components such as video, memory, processing speed, and storage. A best system should be viable for 5 years or more.

As always, check with your department or division chair before purchasing a computer as there may be additional requirements for some classes.

Desktops

Laptops