Political Science
College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences
2024-25 Baseline Minimum System Requirements
For All Incoming Undergraduate Students
Platform
PC
Laptop*
Mac
Laptop
*Chromebook not recommended
Operating System
Windows 11 (64-Bit)
macOS 13 (or higher)
Processor Speed
Intel Core i-series (11th Gen) or AMD Ryzen Series 6000*
Apple M3
*PC: If your major requires use of a Windows based software product, please note that some new PCs with an AMD Ryzen Series processor may not run the required Windows based software locally. You should only purchase an AMD Ryzen Series PC if your major requires you to run a Windows based product and they either provide remote access to a Windows operating system or confirm the required software will run with an AMD Ryzen Series PC. Please check with your major before you purchase an AMD Ryzen Series PC.
Memory (RAM)
16 GB or higher
16 GB or higher
Storage
Minimum 500 GB SSD (Solid State Drive)
Minimum 500 GB SSD (Solid State Drive). Buy the most you can afford now as you can not updgrade later.
Webcam
Built-in or external with built in microphone (headset/earbuds recommended)
Built-in or external with built in microphone (headset/earbuds recommended)
Wireless
Wi-Fi Capable
Wi-Fi Capable
Warranty
3 Year on-site service support with accident damage coverage (4 Year is highly recommended)
3 Year on-site service support, AppleCare (4 Year is highly recommended - available through certain vendors)
Software
Software Suite*
Software Suite*
*Students are required to purchase the Incoming Undergraduate Software Bundle through the Virginia Tech Software Service Center. See the Student Software Center for more information.
Included Products: Microsoft Windows Operating System with Microsoft Office 365 Pro Plus
Platform: macOS and Windows
Eligibility: Valid while enrolled in undergraduate classes at Virginia Tech
Note: Office 365 Pro Plus can be downloaded and installed on up to five machines and Office mobile apps can be installed on up to five mobile devices.
Backup
Any backup method of choice including cloud-based services like Microsoft OneDrive and Google Drive.
Any backup method of choice including cloud-based services like Microsoft OneDrive and Google Drive.
Contact
Neal Kegley
540-232-8699
nkegley@vt.edu