Laptops
Why is having a laptop important for academic success?
In order for undergraduate students at Southern Nazarene University to succeed academically, it is critical that they have ongoing access to a laptop computer. For the majority of classes, professors will ask students to use their computers during class on a daily basis. Additionally, students will be assigned homework, projects, or papers that require the use of a computer.
Suggested Laptop Options
Purchase through the Dell Education Discount Program. Dell allows students to access competitive educational pricing. To access these discounts:
• Visit Dell's Education Discount Page
• Click “Join or Login.”
• Select “Google Sign In” and use your SNU credentials.
• On the “Membership” tab, select “Verify Membership” and follow the prompts to unlock your student pricing.
-OR-
2) Bring Your Own Device
Purchase a computer from any retailer that meets the minimum specifications outlined below.
Computer Hardware Specifications
Before purchasing a laptop, please ensure the system meets these specifications:
| Feature | Minimum Specifications | Recommended Specifications |
| Processor | Processor Intel Core i5 (Dual Core) or similar AMD | Intel Core i5 (Quad Core) or similar AMD |
| Memory | 8 GB RAM | 16 GB RAM |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Pro or macOS Ventura |
Windows 11 Pro or macOS Tahoe |
| Hard Drive | 128 GB Solid State Drive (SSD) | 256 GB NVMe Solid State Drive (SSD) |
| Network | Network Dual-Band Wireless | Ethernet and Dual-Band Wireless |
| Warranty | 1 Year | 3 Years |
| Other | Built-In Webcam | Built-In Webcam |
Major-Specific Computer Specifications:
- Graphic Design & Mass Communication students must have a Mac with capacity to run Adobe Creative Suite software (latest version which updates regularly.) If you are looking at buying a new mac, visit Apple’s educational website and save some money: https://www.apple.com/us-hed/shop.
- The School of Education strongly recommends, but does not require, a Mac computer.
- Biology and Chemistry strongly recommends all students have a laptop with a standard usb drive, the ability to run Microsoft Excel, and the ability to use Webprint.
- Math and math education majors strongly recommends all students to have a laptop (Chromebooks and iPads cannot run the software currently being used in Calculus I).
Additional Notes:
- Graphic Design & Mass Communication majors will need to purchase from an outside provider as the Dell website does not currently sell Mac computers.
- Every SNU student will receive a license to install Microsoft Office on their personal computer (at no additional cost). Because of this, when obtaining a laptop, it is important to know that you will not need to purchase a licensed copy of Microsoft Office. More details will be emailed to the student after they are enrolled.