The following PC configuration should meet the minimum requirements to be successful at Williston State College and beyond! We encourage incoming and returning students to consider the following when purchasing a laptop and software:
Estimated Cost: You should be able to find satisfactory options for $800-1200.

1. Processor (CPU):
   • Intel Core i5 Processor (10th Generation or later)
   • AMD Ryzen 5 Processor (3000+ series or newer)
2. Memory (RAM):
   • 16GB (recommended for satisfactory performance)
   • 32GB or higher (strongly recommended for enhanced usability and experience)
3. Storage:
   • A minimum of 256GB is required.
   • 512GB (recommended for additional storage)
   • SSD drives are recommended for better performance.
4. Graphics:
   • Integrated graphics like Intel UHD or AMD Radeon Vega are sufficient for most tasks, while gaming or demanding graphics work typically needs a dedicated GPU.
5. Display:
   • Minimum 14-inch screen size or better is recommended
   • Full HD (1920x1080) resolution
6. Operating System and Software:
   • Windows 11 (Windows 10 is the minimum requirement)
   • MacOS (refer to the note below regarding Mac usage)
   • Chromebook (refer to the note below regarding Chromebook usage)
   • MS Office – accessible via WSC’s MS 365 license for both Mac and PC
7. Ports and Connectivity: Recommended
   • USB-A and USB-C ports
   • HDMI output (ideal for presentations)
8. Battery Life:
   • Many classrooms lack convenient power outlets, so laptop batteries should ideally last at least 8 hours to cover a full school day.
9. Additional Features Recommended:
   • Integrated webcam suitable for presentations, online classes, and meetings
   • Lightweight and portable design (under 4 lbs.), enabling ease of transport over extended periods

 Additional Notes:

1. A Note for MAC Users
   1. WSC advises students to use Windows PCs, as some software required for coursework may not be compatible with macOS. Additionally, the Microsoft Office experience on Mac differs from that on a PC. Students who choose to use a Mac should be aware that institutional support may be limited. It is recommended that students review their course requirements to ensure all necessary software is supported on macOS.
2. A Note for Chromebook users
   1. Chromebooks do not offer full compatibility with Office365, and users will experience limitations. Required software for classes cannot be installed on these devices. Support will not be available for Chromebooks.

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Campus Connection (https://studentadmin.connectnd.us/)

BlackBoard (https://online.willistonstate.edu)

Web-based Email Access (https://outlook.office.com)

Microsoft 365 Apps (https://portal.office.com)

Request Support (https://helpdesk.ndus.edu/tickets.php)

Software Resources

Microsoft 365 Apps
Information on Microsoft 365 applications and services, such as Microsoft Office, is available here:
https://www.willistonstate.edu/students/Information-Technology/Microsoft-365/

Other Software Access
Access to other free and discounted software, such as a downloadable and licensed copy of the Microsoft Windows operating system, is available via this OnTheHub software portal.
https://willistonstate.onthehub.com

Microsoft Azure Dev Tools
Azure Dev Tools provides tools to departments, faculty, and students to expand their study of software development and testing.  These tools include such technologies as Project, Visio, SQL Server, Visual Studio .NET, Windows Server, and MANY more Microsoft products.
https://azureforeducation.microsoft.com/devtools

PDF to Word Converters
Free, online tools to convert PDF files to editable Microsoft Word (.docx) files.
https://www.adobe.com/acrobat/online/pdf-to-word.html
 
https://www.pdftowordconverter.org/




Hardware Discounts

Apple
Apple Products are available with an education discount here:
https://www.apple.com/us-hed/store

HP
HP Products are available with an education discount here:
https://www.hp.com/us-en/shop/cv/hp-education

CDWG
Access WSC's special pricing for a tremendous number of products with your @willistonstate.edu email address:
https://www.cdwg.com/

Lenovo
Access WSC's special pricing for Lenovo hardware, software and accessories:
https://www.lenovo.com/us/members/willistonstate/en/student/