For new undergraduate and graduate students, there are two laptop options to ensure students have a computer that meets Chatham’s technology requirements. You can find everything you need on this page.
New undergraduate and graduate students may purchase a recommended device from Chatham’s preferred vendor, CDW, or bring one that meets the minimum requirements outlined below. As you research pricing with other resellers and hardware manufacturers, we recommend purchasing from CDW. In comparison, the device options we recommend are commercial-grade devices, which are built to be more reliable than a standard retail device.
Chatham’s Direct Purchase Laptop Program allows students to purchase a new MacBook or Windows laptop that meets the university requirements through Chatham’s CDW online store.
Be sure to check your undergraduate major or graduate program for any program-specific technology and computer requirements.
With the Direct Laptop Purchase Program, students purchase and own the computer directly, can choose their warranty length (we recommend four years of manufacturer’s warranty plus four years of ADP – accidental damage protection). Student may borrow additional loan funds to reimburse the cost of the laptop purchase. A laptop reimbursement form is required.
Students who purchase through the Direct Purchase Program or decide to bring their own device must ensure their device utilizes Chatham software and security protocols. Below are several resources for more information on access, software, services, and support.
If a student chooses to bring their existing laptop, the device must meet minimum requirements to ensure connection to Chatham’s network and run the required software. In addition, some majors at Chatham may not allow the BYOD option due to specific academic technology or software requirements for the major.
Be sure to check your undergraduate major or graduate program for any program-specific technology and computer requirements.
The following are the minimum laptop requirements that must be met at Chatham for a BYOD laptop. If a student’s BYOD does not meet these requirements, Chatham cannot guarantee that the device will work on the network and run the necessary software.
Students must ensure their device utilizes Chatham software and security protocols. Below are several resources for more information on access, software, services, and support.
All students will pay a University Tech Fee that helps fund software licensing (e.g., Microsoft, SPSS), connectivity, cybersecurity, computer labs, IT Support Services (Helpdesk), and other campus technology investments and infrastructure.
After reviewing the student computer program options above, new students will need to select their computer program choice as part of the application process to Chatham. If you have any questions about choosing a computer or need further guidance, please contact IT Support at support@chatham.edu to discuss what may be best for you and your needs. For all other admission-related questions, please contact the admissions team directly at chathamadmissions@chatham.edu.
