For BS (Accounting), BSBA (Business Analytics, Economic Consulting, Entrepreneurship & Innovation, Finance, Human Resource Management, International Business, Marketing, Project Management, Supply Chain Management), MSA (Accounting), MSBA (Business Analytics), and MBA students, we recommend students use a Windows PC for your coursework. Students pursuing these degrees take classes that use specialized software.

Software/OS compatibility issues distract from the instructional environment, needlessly consume technology support resources, and waste instructor/student time.

The vast majority of business organizations use Windows-based computer operating systems; learning to operate in a Windows computing environment will enhance your employability and help you transition to full-time work upon graduation.

We recommend the following PC specifications:

  • Operating System: Windows 10
  • Processor Speed: Core i5 or i7 Processor
  • Memory: 8 GB RAM or higher
  • Hard Drive: 250-500 GB
  • Graphics Card: 512 MB Video memory or higher

We understand students may have a strong preference towards using a Mac and/or may have a second major outside the business school that does not have a computer policy. If you do not have a personal PC, you are welcome to use the computer labs on campus to do your course work that requires the use of specialized software.

Computer Policy FAQ

Why is the LSB implementing this policy?

Faculty in the LSB have increasingly documented macOS compatibility issues/problems within the business core, in majors’ classes, and in classes in our graduate programs (MSA, MSBA, MBA). These macOS compatibility issues cause problems with instruction continuity (e.g., interruptions during class), problems with computer lab assignment/space, problems that require intervention/resolution by campus technology support, and problems with student execution of assignments. Some instructors, given the software in use in their classes, notice very little disruption, while other instructors document continued and significant disruptions due to software/OS incompatibility.

Do other business schools have similar policies?

While there is no universal agreement on computing platforms within our peer and aspirant business school groups, some business schools require a Windows PC, some strongly recommend a Windows PC (and are on a path toward making it a requirement), and others do not have a PC requirement (but document similar compatibility issues between students using macOS and their required software). We believe that the changes to the new Mac offerings and macOS will necessitate a move to a common computing platform among our peer/aspirant schools – in this change, we believe we are ahead of the curve.

May I use computers in labs on campus?

Yes, there are labs in the Koury Business Center (KoBC), Sankey Hall and across campus with Windows-equipped computers/software for use in business classes.

Do BA in Economics majors need to comply?

No, the policy is directed to business students pursuing BS, BSBA, MSA, MSBA, and MBA programs in the LSB. However, coursework in some classes in economics may benefit from the use of a Windows computer.

Do business minors need to comply?

No, this requirement is for business majors only.

I cannot afford a new computer. What do I do?

There are many computer resources available in labs in the KoBC, Sankey Hall and across campus for students who need access to a Windows machine.

If I intend to purchase a computer this fall/winter, what models/specifications should I look for?

We recommend the following PC specifications:

Operating System: Windows 10
Processor Speed: Core i5 or i7 Processor
Memory: 8 GB RAM or higher
Hard Drive: 250-500 GB
Graphics Card: 512 MB Video memory or higher