Student Technology Requirements
Current minimum technology requirements for incoming students, specific technology requirements for some academic units, and recommendations on specific devices.
Minimum Requirements
| Device Size and Type | Minimum: 13" Laptop Recommended: 14" (or larger) Laptop |
| Operating System | Windows 11 |
| Processor | Minimum: Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen 3 Recommended: Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 |
| Memory (RAM) | Minimum: 8 GB Recommended: 16 GB |
| Storage Drive | Minimum: 128 GB Solid State Drive Recommended: 256 GB Solid State Drive |
| Productivity Software | UofL provides Microsoft Office 365 to all students |
| Basic Assumptions | Laptop computer with built-in webcam and microphone Reliable access to WiFi and internet |
| Things to Avoid | Chromebooks or anything that runs ChromeOS iPads* or Android tablets |
| Apple Macintosh Support | Most MacBook and MacBook Pro devices work well on campus, but not all required software is available for MacOS Mac laptops should run at least MacOS 14.7.5 (Sonoma) ITS recommends MacOS 15.4.1 (Sequoia) |
*iPads may be acceptable for most students' classwork (depending on the program) but will not be compatible with online testing software. Students may use one of the many computer labs on campus.
Unit-specific Requirements
Arts & Sciences (Fine Arts) - Many students in the Department of Fine Arts use a MacBook Pro. Most Graphic Design students use MacBook Pros. Interior Design students need to have the ability to run CAD/Revit software. Within the department there are a limited number of desktop computers in some of the classrooms in Interior Design and Graphic Design as well as the Photo Digital lab, for students in those areas to use, in addition to their own computer. For those who are unable to purchase more expensive technology, the department will work with students, within the constraints of availability of equipment and scheduling. In addition, the Art Library also has desktops for general student use. Incoming students with further questions can contact the department at hite@louisville.edu. We recommend investing more when buying a laptop at the beginning, to get as robust a system as you can manage. As programs upgrade, they constantly consume more processor speed, RAM, etc. so purchase a computer that can get you through 4 years, rather than trying to update two years down the road.
Business - For CIS students, 16 DRAM, a slightly bigger drive and a secondary power source.
You can view purchasing options at the University's Campus Store.