Computer Information
Laptop Computer Requirement
The Eli Broad Graduate School of Management requires all incoming MBA students to own a laptop computer. Examples of how you will use your laptop in the MBA Program are:
- Completing class assignments using Microsoft Word or Excel.
- Making presentations using Microsoft PowerPoint and computer graphics packages.
- Using the Internet
- Accessing your email account to communicate with faculty, staff and fellow students.
- Accessing online resources.
If you are purchasing a new computer, the Broad College Network Resource Center (NRC) recommends the configuration below. Operating systems supported are Windows XP and Windows Vista. If purchasing a computer and given a choice we recommend choosing Windows XP. Macintosh computers or computers running an operating system other than Windows XP/Vista, such as Windows 95/98/Me/Linux are not supported.
- Past MBA students strongly recommend that you consider weight in your decision when purchasing a laptop computer.
- When purchasing the laptop and computer software it is highly recommended that you visit MSU's Computer Store at http://www.cstore.msu.edu The MSU Computer Store offers deeply discounted prices for both hardware and software. Of particular interest is the pricing for Microsoft Office and Symantec AntiVirus.
- The price listed below was obtained from MSU's computer store for Dell computers.
- We recommend MBA students purchase Dell computers. Dell computers are competively priced, the support is great and the NRC is authorized for warranty service on Dells. Discounted Dells are also available at www.delloutlet.com the same warranty and support are available on these machines from Dell.
Recommended Laptop Specifications
This computer is currently the ideal configuration to accomplish everything in the MBA program that requires a computer. It will run programs efficiently and it will be very reliable. The price was obtained for a Dell Latitude D630 through the MSU Computer Store. Anything equal or greater than this configuration will be adequate for the MBA program.
- Intel Core 2 Duo 2.00 GHz
- 2048 MB (2GB) RAM
- 80 GB Hard drive
- 10/100 Ethernet adapter with 802.11 G Wireless
- 24x CD-RW DVD combination drive
- Windows XP (Windows Vista is ok, but XP is preferred)
- Office 2007 Professional (Office 2003 is ok) - Office is deeply discounted from the MSU computer store.
- 14.1 inch WXGA+ screen
- Current AntiVirus Software. (Symantec Antivirus, NOD32 purchased seperately through the MSU computer Store)
- Current cost: approx. $ 1,132
If you already have a laptop that is slightly lower than these specifications, you do not necessarily need to purchase a new computer. If your computer is running at least Windows 2000, Microsoft Office and has internet connectivity this should work for the program.
Ordering Details – To place an order you can go on-line to http://www.cstore.msu.edu and use the “order on-line” link. You will need your MSU NETID (email less @msu.edu) and password. Below are part numbers that you can use to order the standard components listed above or you can customize a system using the web site listed above.
| Item | Price | Stock Number |
| Symantec Antivirus | $15 | WNAVSTUDENT |
| MS Office Professional Plus | $65 | WINSTUDENT-07 |