University at Albany CNSE Student Laptop Program Laptops are required for in-class instructional purposes in many College of Nanotechnology, Science, and Engineering (CNSE) courses. Laptops will be used to solve problems, collaborate, discuss applications of engineering and work on engineering projects.
Minimum and Recommended Configurations
For CS students
Minimum hardware configuration is an i5 Intel, AMD Ryzen 5, or Apple M1 or better processor, with 16 GB of main memory, and at least 1 TB HDD or SSD. The recommended hardware configuration would include an i7 Intel (or better), AMD Ryzen 7 (or better), or Apple M1 processor, with 32 GB of main memory and 2 TB HDD or SDD.
For ECE and NSE students
A Windows PC platform is preferred, but Apple systems that meet the above recommended hardware configuration, and have a software environment which includes a Type 2 hypervisor such as Parallels Desktop with an installation of Windows 10 or 11 are acceptable.
For ESE students
Due to some of the software used in the program, one of the above Windows configurations should be selected. CNSE suggests you consider protecting your purchase with AppleCare (for Apple) or Accidental Damage Service (for Dell) or equivalent for at least 3 years.
Purchasing a Laptop
Since laptops are required in many CNSE classes, our students need to factor the purchase cost of a laptop into the total educational expenses. Questions about financial aid should be directed to the Financial Aid office.
Technology Discounts for Computers
CNSE has collaborated with the UAlbany Information Technology Services (ITS) in establishing academic purchase programs with Dell and Apple which allow students to purchase laptops at special savings. Sign into your MyUAlbany portal. Scroll down to the Technology Resources menu on the left side of the screen. You will see links to Apple Store for Education, Dell University Laptop Program, as well as other technology resources.
Software Available to UAlbany Students
In the Technology Resources section of MyUAlbany is a link to software that is available to our University community (including Office365). MatLab Simulink is an example of software that CNSE students will need in some of their computer science or engineering classes. And all you have to do is download it!
For more information about technology discounts, contact the ITS Help Desk at (518) 442-3700.
Updated August 2024