General Hardware Recommendations
Note: Information Technology recommends that students purchase a Windows or macOS laptop as their primary computer. Please check with the department of your major if you have questions specific to your course of study. For many programs, a recent Microsoft Surface Pro (not Windows 10X or RT) tablet is also an option, but most iOS tablets, Windows Surface RTs, and Chromebooks* are not suitable as a primary device for students pursuing most four-year degrees.
* Chromebooks are not compatible with the Respondus LockDown Browser, which many courses use when administering electronic exams. Chromebooks may experience issues with when taking proctored exams using Proctorio. You are responsible for ensuring your computer is compatible with all course and exam requirements.
- Processor:
- PC: Any recent Intel or AMD-based chip (dual-core or higher recommended)
- Mac: Any relatively recent Intel-based model (i3/i5 or better)
- Memory: 16 GB RAM
- Hard Drive: 256GB minimum
- A solid-state drive is recommended
- Networking: 802.11ac or 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) wireless network adapter (either built-in, or as an add-on card for a desktop).
- Optional: Gigabit Ethernet adapter
- Operating System:
- PC: Windows 10+
- Mac: 10.14 Catalina or later
- Power:
- A surge protector or uninterruptible power supply
If you have any questions about whether your computer meets the above requirements, we would be glad to help. Please contact us via the methods at the bottom of the page. Please visit our computer purchasing page for links to online stores with Cedarville discounts.
General Software Recommendations
- Security Software:
- Virus protection software: Windows Defender is built into Windows 10; other free software includes AVG and Avast
- IT strongly recommends against disabling regular software and security updates.
- Office/Productivity Software:
- Email:
Additional Requirements per Department/Program
Art, Design, & Theatre
- The Visual Communication Design (graphic and web design) major recommends a 15-inch MacBook Pro for students taking Graphic Design & Photography classes.
- The Industrial & Innovative Design major also recommends an iPad Pro with Apple Pencil.
Communication
The Broadcasting & Digital Media major recommends the following for students in Video, Motion Graphics or Animation classes:
- Operating System:
- Windows 10 Professional, Education, or Enterprise
- macOS
- Video:
- 15" Display or larger
- Discrete graphics card with at least 2GB of video RAM recommended
- Hard Drive: 500 GB solid-state drive or larger
- Processor: Intel i5 minimum, i7 recommended
The Broadcasting & Digital Media major recommends the following for students in Audio Production classes:
- Hard Drive: 500 GB drive or larger
- Input: USB-A Ports for USB hardware license keys
Nursing
- Chromebooks should NOT be used due to compatibility issues with software used in the BSN and MSN programs..
- Windows or MacOS laptop computer with Google Chrome and the Proctorio Google extension installed.
- Windows or MacOS laptop computer must be compatible Proctorio software (system requirements).
- Video Recording Recommendations and Options:
- Upload recorded video to Canvas (Recommended)
- Record video directly in Canvas (Not recommended but can be done if using a High Speed Internet service that provides > 2Mbps upload speed.)
- Technology challenges involving Canvas: IT recommends contacting Canvas Support directly at 855-744-9252 or the IT Help Desk at 937-766-7905, Option 1 (Canvas Support). Canvas Support is staffed 24x7.
Pharmacy
- The School of Pharmacy requires students to have a working Windows or MacOS laptop computer for taking weekly exams.
- This laptop computer must be compatible with the ExamSoft software (system requirements).
Video Streaming Recommendations (Online Students)