Computer Requirements

To support maximum flexibility in supporting your learning needs, within and outside of the classroom, Flagler requires all students to have a baseline level of computer. There may be additional computer requirements depending on the course and related third-party platforms you need to access to complete coursework. 

You can check out the New Student Technology Guide here. Or, you may also wish to check with your instructor or advisor for details.

Minimum suggested Specifications for Computers (i.e., “Good”):

• Operating System: Windows 10 or higher or macOS 10.15 Catalina or higher
• Portability: Laptop (as opposed to desktop computers) is strongly recommended
• Memory: 8GB RAM (16GB strongly recommended)
• Processor Speed: Intel Core i5 or equivalent
• Hard Drive/SSD: 256 GB (SSD highly recommended)
• Wireless:  802.11 n/ac protocols and WPA2 Enterprise
• Webcam/Microphone: Built-in webcams/microphones

Optional/Recommended Peripherals

• Bluetooth - many external wireless devices leverage Bluetooth; this can be a useful feature
• Warranty - As a computer will be necessary for your college career, carrying a warranty so that any problems with hardware are covered is a wise investment.  A limited warranty is often included; check on the availability for an extended warranty covering at least four years, and for a warranty with complete care, which will cover accidental damage as well as defects.

Things to Consider When Purchasing a New Computer

• Price range - Computer prices have dropped dramatically in the past several years, but prices still range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the specifications and capabilities of the computer. Deciding how much you want to spend will impact the type of computer you can purchase.
• Your major - Some programs/courses of study will give you the option of downloading software onto your computer for classwork, and these programs may be resource-intensive. Typically, programs which require computer graphics manipulation, or advanced mathematical modeling will require more powerful machines that run specialized software. If you plan on pursuing one of these program, it may be beneficial to have a computer with better specifications. We recommend contacting the department for special requirements or recommendations.
• Apple or Windows - Either an Apple or Windows computer is fine for most programs at the College. However, there are a few departments or majors that may recommend one operating system over the other based on the software used in those areas of study. Contact the appropriate department for more information.
• Chromebooks - While Institutional Technology (IT) does not recommend that they be used as a student's only device, Chromebook laptops work well as an additional tool for school-related use. Certain classes and majors may require use of software that is not available on a Chromebook.
• Tablets  - While IT does not recommend that they be used as a student’s only device, tablets work well as an additional tool for school-related use. As they often do not meet the aforementioned minimums and require peripherals such as a keyboard or mouse for extended use, they are unsuitable as a primary device.
• Age - Many students may already have devices; if they meet the minimum criteria, the student is encouraged to continue use, but the age of the device should be considered; devices older than three years should not be used as a primary device.

Flagler provides wireless access across campus.  However, if you wish to procure internet access for classwork, the recommended minimum connection speed is 1.5 Mbps download and 750 Kbps upload.

Several computers meeting and exceeding these specifications can be found online at the Flagler Bookstore.