Student Laptops
Fall 2008 Student Notebook Program
The School of Law has joined other leading law schools in implementing a student notebook computer requirement for first-year J.D. students. Use of computers has become essential to research, classroom and clinical work. Furthermore, by requiring the purchase of a computer, we are able to include the cost in your financial aid package.
Notebook Computer
New models of notebook computers using a new Intel processor are expected this summer, but probably not in time for the beginning of classes.
What are my choices?
- Buy the supported model available now.
The Dell Latitude D630, introduced just last year as our supported notebook, remains a worthy and capable system for incoming students. It includes 4 years of warranty and accidental damage protection as well as extensive support services from the School of Law's Information Technology Office. ORDER »
- Bring a notebook you already own for the beginning of the semester and buy a new supported model when available.
When the new model Dell notebook computers are available, the School of Law will select a replacement for the Dell D630. An ultra-light model may be offered as well as the standard sized model. If you decide to wait until the new models are available, you will need to be prepared to bring your old notebook to your first classes.
- Provide your own unsupported notebook computer.
Students who do not wish to participate in the supported notebook program may bring their own computer, but will not be eligible for enhanced support from Law School Information Technology Office. MORE »
Student Software
Microsoft Office 2007 is the School of Law's standard application suite. Students not in compliance with this standard may experience difficulty submitting assignments to professors. Furthermpore, a collaborative work, such as shared document editing in law journals or clinic practice sections, is at risk for document corruption whenever a student attempts to use a different version of Microsoft Office. Therefore, all students are expected to comply with the School of Law's file format standards.
Students who do not already own a licensed copy of Microsoft Office 2007 may purchase a copy at a discounted rate through the campus. This software does not come preloaded on the Dell D630 and is not included in the cost of the unit.
Students must also have active anti-virus software installed on their notebook computers. The Dell D630 does not come with a license for anti-virus software. If you do not already own anti-virus software, you may either purchase a copy of Symantec Norton Anti-Virus from campus (recommended) or use one of the free products listed in the resources section below. We do not suggest purchasing Symantec Norton Anti-Virus through a retailer because those versions require recurring annual fees; the version of Symantec Norton Anti-Virus offered through the campus does not expire and has no annual fee.
Software Resources
More On Student Technology
- Student Blackboard Guide
- Exams
- Backup your data
- Clean Spyware
- Passwords
- Your Laptop
- Other Technology Resources
