Computer Requirements

The W.S. Lee College of Engineering requires all students to own a laptop computer. Beyond university baseline requirements for new students who enrolled in fall 2023 or beyond, the W.S. Lee College of Engineering requires all student laptops to meet specific minimum requirements and be Windows based. 

Operating System
Latest Windows
64 bit (OS)

Note: Chromebooks, iPads, other tablets, and mobile devices DO NOT meet the laptop requirement

Processor
Intel Core i7 Processor or higher or AMD Ryzen (processor)

Memory
16 GB RAM or higher

Hard Drive
512 GB or higher SSD (hard drive/storage)

Graphics
Discrete graphics with 2GB RAM or higher

Add-Ons
14 in or higher (screen size)
USB-A or USB-C port(s) + adapter
Camera, Microphone, Speakers (included with most laptops)
HDMI port(s)
3-button mouse (for Mechanical Engineering CAD Apps)

Preconfigured systems with our specifications can be purchased via our NinerTech Store.

Software

Microsoft Office & Antivirus Software
Download FREE Microsoft Office, antivirus software and more at software.charlotte.edu

Numerous engineering applications are available for engineering students to install on their laptops, some at no cost and some at minimal cost, and engineering students can access engineering apps using Mosaic’s Mosaic Anywhere from any computer with an internet connection. Visit the Mosaic website and learn more about our Mosaic Computing Resources for Students.