Bluefield State College suggests that all students own (or have access to) a personal computer. Working knowledge of its operations and up-to-date programs also boosts the learning experience and instructional curves throughout the educational programs. This means that you should know how to get your computer to do what you want it to do when you want it to do it. It is in the best interest of all students, staff, and faculty members to become familiar with your personal computer before classes start.
Students have indicated that individual ownership of a personal computer or laptop is preferable. As a student, you have certain resources available for you to purchase at a discounted price.
As staff, or faculty member, you have certain resources available for you to purchase discounted software.
Hardware Requirements
Below are recommendations for hardware that are applicable to all students. The minimum requirements are suggested for individuals that already possess a personal computer. The "Basic" configurations are meant for guidance in obtaining new equipment compatible with school technology standards. Some majors, such as those in the school of Science, Technology, Engineering, & Mathematics (STEM), will require an advanced hardware system and additional software. Additional software and instructions on how to acquire your software will be provided by your course instructors.
| Suggested PC Specifications (Windows or Mac) |
| Minimum |
Basic |
Advanced |
| Intel Core i3/AMD Equivalent Processor |
Intel Core i5/AMD Equivalent Processor or better |
Intel Core i7/AMD Equivalent Processor or better
|
| Windows 8/Mac OS X 10.13 |
Windows 10/macOS Catalina or newer |
Windows 10/macOS Catalina or newer |
| 4 GB RAM |
8 GB RAM |
16 GB RAM |
| 128 GB Hard Drive or higher |
250 GB Hard Drive or higher |
500 GB Hard Drive or higher |
| 13” Laptop / 15” Desktop Display |
15” Laptop / 20” Desktop Display or better |
17” Laptop / 24” Desktop Display or better |
| Speakers, Microphone, Webcam |
Speakers, Microphone, Webcam |
Speakers, Microphone, Webcam |
| |
|
DVD-ROM/DVD-WRITER |
| |
|
4 GB Graphic Processing Unit |
Software Requirements
- Microsoft Office 365 Pro Plus is provided free to BSC students for both PC and Mac. Here are instructions on how to download using your Bluefield State College provided email.
- We recommend you have an up-to-date antivirus program.
BSC also houses many general and specific-use computer labs for use by all students, staff and faculty while on campus.