NJIT is a computing intensive university. Computers are an integral part of campus life. Whether enrolled in freshman level classes in engineering or architecture design, working with faculty on cutting-edge research, collaborating with classmates on group projects, or simply registering for classes, students need access to computers for virtually every task performed while attending NJIT.
Since access to a personal computer is essential for successful completion of an NJIT degree program, the university requires all incoming undergraduates to have access to a computer in their places of residence. Freshmen and transfers entering the New Jersey School of Architecture have more specific requirements footnoted below.* Although NJIT provides a large number of public computing facilities on campus, students without access at their places of residence may not have sufficient time to complete class assignments or take advantage of the many technology resources available to members of the NJIT community.
The university annually establishes baseline specifications for each entering class and several recommended configurations of desktop and notebook computer models (All are currently Windows-Intel platforms). Transfer students are subject to the requirement in place for the class level into which they enter. Students are encouraged to purchase one of the recommended configurations through NJIT’s partnered vendor. Special academic and volume pricing makes these models available at significant discounts.
If you already own or have access to a computer that meets or exceeds certain baseline specifications, you may use that computer for your coursework. However, you may need to upgrade that computer or purchase a newer model before you complete degree requirements.
One of the advantages of universal computer requirement is that NJIT is able to negotiate very favorable software licensing for all NJIT students. Every NJIT student is provided a software bundle that includes the most frequently used Microsoft products, virus protection, programming, design, and other tools. The retail value of this bundle is in excess of $2,000.
Complete information on the Fall 2008 computer requirement will be mailed and posted on the web for all students who accept an offer of admission. Please note that since the cost of a computer is an educational expense, it can be included in your calculation for financial aid eligibility.
*Freshmen and transfer students entering the School of Architecture and Industrial Design are required to purchase a specific desktop model and keep it in the Design studio (Students are assigned a personal desk with lockable storage space. Studio access is available 24 hours per day).
Questions may be e-mailed to compreq@njit.edu.
View the Computer Requirement for Previous Years:
