IT Recommendations
Laptop & Technology Requirements
To succeed in your coursework, you’ll need a reliable laptop—but you’re free to choose either macOS or Windows. Both platforms work for our curriculum. A small number of classes use software that isWindows‑only, but if you have a Mac, you can simply log into a Viterbi remote desktop server to access those tools. No extra hardware or special setup is required.
In short: choose the system you’re most comfortable with.
To ensure good performance across programming, data analysis, and engineering tools, we recommend the following minimum specs:
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Memory (RAM): 16–32 GB More RAM makes a noticeable difference when running multiple applications, virtual machines, or large simulations.
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Storage: 512 GB or more (SSD) Engineering software, datasets, and project files add up quickly. Get as much storage as your budget allows.
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Processor: Recent Intel, AMD, or Apple Silicon CPU Any modern chip from the last few years will be sufficient for coursework.
These guidelines aren’t meant to push you toward a specific brand—just to ensure your laptop stays fast and responsive throughout your time in the program.