Texas Wesleyan University School of Law
Information Technology Services

Recommendations for Students' Personal Computers

Owning a computer is not an official requirement for admission to the law school, but students are expected to be able to use one.  The law school has two computer labs available for student use, comprising a total of 28 computers.  Even so, most students have at least a home computer, and many carry a portable computer.

If you are buying a new computer, it will have sufficient capabilities for law school use.  Because most computers at the law school are PCs with Microsoft Windows, we recommend buying a Windows PC rather than a Macintosh or Apple.  For the best dependability and support, stick with well-known brands such as Dell, Sony, IBM, Hewlett-Packard or Gateway.  The law school does not offer repair or support services for students' computers.

Regarding software, you'll need a word processor such as Microsoft Word or Corel WordPerfect.  Knowledge of PowerPoint or similar presentation software may be required for certain classes.  Software may be purchased at discount rates from the law school bookstore.  Much legal research is done using the Internet, so students should consider getting Internet service at home.

The law school offers free Internet access for students' personal laptop computers in most areas inside the building.  You must have a wireless-capable laptop computer or one fitted with an add-on wireless card to use the free system.  Access to the wireless system is controlled by login ID and password.

If you're planning to purchase a used computer, we recommend the following minimum specifications:
- 1.4 GHz processor (Pentium IV or equivalent)
- 20 gigabyte drive
- 256 mb RAM
- Windows XP
- Wireless network interface card (if purchasing a laptop to use on the school's wirless network)