All students within College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences are required to have a laptop computer. Our unit continues to enhance its successful technology programs, which encourage all students to actively use laptop technology in their courses and course assignments. The laptop requirement supports our effort to ensure that students gain valuable technology skills and experience as an integrated part of their education in the arts, humanities and social sciences: making students more competitive in their future academic and professional careers.
You are welcome to purchase a laptop from wherever you like as long as it meets the technology requirements. Our unit has worked with the UMD Computer Corner which offers Mac and Windows laptops and accessories with excellent features and prices often below retail. Required technology purchased at the UMD Computer Corner is sales-tax free. Additional computer and tablet insurance is available through the UMD Computer Corner or check with an insurance agent.
All UMD students are able to include the cost of a personal computer in their request for Financial Aid. Inquire at the UMD One Stop for detailed information. Financial Aid Cost Information
General Laptop Requirements (minimum)
- Windows 11 or Mac OS (15 or newer)
- Look for a multi-core CPU✶
- At least 8GB RAM (16GB preferred)
- 256 GB hard drive/SSD (512 GB preferred)
Recommended:
- A warranty service agreement and replacement insurance for at least three years is very helpful.
- An HDMI external video adapter may be needed to connect to classroom projectors when doing presentations.
- Antivirus and anti-malware software is strongly recommended for any computing device or smartphone.
Please Note: At this point, Chromebooks do not yet have the capabilities to replace the functions and requirements of a traditional Windows laptop or MacBook.
✶ Processors vary in speed and are listed differently by manufacturers, so an Intel or AMD multi-core processor
Department of Music
As an incoming freshman music student, the Department of Music requires the purchase of either an Apple (recommended) or PC/Windows laptop computer running a current operating system and capable of wireless connectivity.
In terms of software, students will be using Dorico engraving software for notation in theory, arranging, and composition classes. We recommend downloading Dorico SE, the free version, which offers essential features for your coursework. Please ensure this software is installed and ready before the semester begins. Students may choose to purchase the more professionally functional Dorico Elements (or Dorico Pro) once they are matriculated with their student ID.
Additionally, the University provides the full Microsoft Office Suite—including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint—at no cost to all enrolled students, so you can download and install it using your UMD login credentials. These tools will support you both in your music studies and general academic work.
Relevant links for students:
Microsoft Office 365 Pro Plus: For Faculty, Staff & Students Personally Owned Devices