Computer & Software Recommendations

Minimum Recommendations: (starting point)

York College does not mandate a specific, college-wide computer requirement. Instead, we encourage you to choose the technology that best aligns with your personal skills and chosen program of study. To support your decision, Library & Technology Services (LTS) has curated this guide to ensure you are fully equipped for a successful academic career.

• Note: All Students must have a Smartphone capable of installing the latest version of Microsoft Authenticator mobile app. This is required for completing Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) verification into some YCP applications. 
• Note: The York College Spartan Store offers a variety of computers for students.
   

Windows Laptop:

• Processor: Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5

• RAM: 16GB

• Storage: 512GB SSD
   

Apple MacBook:

• Processor: Apple M Chip

• RAM: 16GB

• Storage: 512GB SSD

• Be Prepared for Windows Apps with Parallels
  (Many courses require students to use Windows-based applications to complete coursework.)
   

Chromebooks = NOT Recommended

• Chromebooks have limited software installation options and limited hardware capability. While they are good for light internet-browsing usage, they will not be able to provide the needed computational power that the majority of college students will require over their academic careers. 
   

Gaming Desktops = Get a Laptop Too!

• If you are interested in Esports or just prefer a desktop computer you can connect in all residence halls via Ethernet ports. However, keep in mind that many instructors ask that students bring laptops to class. As a result, we recommend that you also have a laptop for coursework. 

Program Specific Recommendations:

Business:

• OS: Windows (Some courses require applications that will only run on Windows.)

Computer Science:

• OS: Windows (Some courses require applications that will only run on Windows.)

• Processor: Intel Core i7 or AMD Ryzen 7

• RAM: 16GB to 32GB

• Storage: 512GB to 1TB SSD

Engineering:

• OS: Windows (Some courses require applications that will only run on Windows.)

• Processor: Intel Core i7 or AMD Ryzen 7

• RAM: 16GB to 32GB

• Storage: 512GB to 1TB SSD

Physical Sciences: (Chemistry, Physics)

• OS: Windows (Some courses require applications that will only run on Windows.)
   

Software Recommendations:

Microsoft Office:

• Microsoft Office 365 is FREE with your YCP student account. 

  • Visit our Microsoft Office 365 Support page for details.

Antivirus:

• York College doesn’t require a specific antivirus program since we don’t contract with a single vendor. However, for your device's safety, we strongly recommend keeping a functional antivirus application active.

• If you use a Windows PC, Windows Security (built-in by default) is an excellent choice. For other devices, ensure your chosen software uses up-to-date definitions and is set to run routine scans.

Additional Items:

Remote Class Meetings:

• Webcam (Especially useful for Desktop PC)
• Headset with microphone

Ethernet Connection in Residence Halls:

• Cat6 ethernet cable (10ft to 15ft)
• USB or USBc Ethernet adapter (Some laptops do not have an ethernet port.)

Present in Classrooms:

• USB or USBc Adapter for HDMI (Some Laptops do not have an HDMI port.)

Data Backup

• 1TB or larger external storage drive