Please go to the hardware specification section of the Student Computer Initiative website for the minimum requirements. If you choose to upgrade an older computer to bring to VCU, you must ensure that the computer meets the minimum hardware recommendations listed. Academic Technology, in consultation with the VCU community, annually publishes minimum recommendations for new desktop and laptop computers. These recommendations reflect University and industry trends but do not necessarily take into account the computing needs of specific schools or departments. If you have declared a major, check with your school or department for a list of its program-specific computer requirements.
Students have the option to purchase their computer system from a vendor of their choosing.
Educational discounts are offered on systems purchased directly from vendor web sites. Apple , Compaq , Dell , Hewlett Packard and Gateway are several vendors who maintain on-line stores. Best Buy , Circuit City , CompUSA , Sears and Walmart are a few of the national vendors who offer attractive pricing. Local vendors are also a good source for purchasing personal computers. VCU has contracts with several computer vendors for both Windows and Macintosh platforms.