The School of Pharmacy requires all entering PharmD, MS, and PhD students to have a laptop and use it for specific educational purposes during their multi-year educational program.

Minimum Laptop Specifications (Windows or MacOS)

  • Intel i5 processor (or better) OR Apple M1/M2/M3 processor.
    • AMD processors are supported but not recommended at this time.
    • ARM-based processors are NOT supported at this time.
  • 8 GB RAM or higher.
  • 256 GB or greater solid state hard drive (SSD).
  • A wireless network adapter that supports 802.11n or higher.
  • A functioning webcam is required.

Required Software

  • 64-bit versions of Microsoft Windows 10 or 11 (32-bit versions of Windows are NOT supported).
    • The versions of Windows certified for use are Windows 10 22H2, Windows 11 22H2, and Windows 11 23H2. Alternate versions of Windows 10 and Windows 11, such as Windows RT and Windows 10 and 11 S, are NOT supported at this time.
  • macOS 13 Ventura, macOS 14 Sonoma, or macOS 15 Sequoia
    • Earlier versions of macOS are NOT supported
  • Microsoft Office 365 - Enter your UMB email and password to access the site. The software is available to you while you are enrolled at UMB.

Recommended Hardware

  • We strongly recommend you purchase an inkjet or laser printer for printing materials when not on campus.
  • We strongly recommend you purchase a USB headset for participation in online web conferences and classes.

Recommended Warranty Coverage

It is highly recommended you obtain a warranty that will cover your laptop during your years of study at the School of Pharmacy. If an accidental damage warranty is available, it is recommended to add that as well.

If you will be taking classes on campus, make sure that:

  • Your laptop is in good working order (i.e., free from damage or faulty components).
  • Your laptop is virus and malware free.
  • Your laptop is up to date with the latest operating system patches.

What if I want to use a tablet or Chromebook?

Tablets and Chromebooks are NOT supported. While you may elect to use one of these devices to complete your schoolwork, there is no official support for these devices if you encounter problems.

Devices that are NOT supported include, but are not limited to:

  • Android tablets
  • iPad and iPad Pro
  • Chromebooks
  • Devices with the Linux operating system
  • Microsoft Surface tablets running Windows RT or Windows 10 Home in S mode (e.g., Surface Go devices).

NOTE: If you are using a Microsoft Surface device, please read this article for important instructions on Windows 10 and 11 “S mode” versus the standard Windows 10 or 11. Only devices with the FULL Windows 10 or 11 operating system are supported at this time.

If you have questions about the purchase of a device, please contact help@rx.umaryland.edu.