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

Recommended Laptop Specifications for Windows

  • Windows 10 22H2, Windows 11 23H2, and/or Windows 11 24H2 operating system
  • Intel i5 (or better) processor
    • ARM-based processors for Windows are NOT supported at this time.
  • 16 GB RAM or more
  • 512 GB or greater solid state hard drive (SSD)
  • A wireless network adapter that supports 802.11ac or higher
  • A functioning webcam

Recommended Laptop Specifications for macOS

  • macOS 13 Ventura, macOS 14 Sonoma, or macOS 15 Sequoia operating system
    • Earlier versions of macOS are NOT supported
  • Apple M-series processor (e.g., M1, M2, etc.)
  • 16 GB RAM or more
  • 512 GB or greater solid state hard drive (SSD)
  • A wireless network adapter that supports 802.11ac or higher
  • A functioning webcam

Required Software

  • Microsoft Office 365 - Available to you while you are enrolled at UMB. Enter your UMB email and password to access the site.

Recommended Hardware

We strongly recommend that you purchase the following:

  • an inkjet or laser printer for printing materials at home
  • a USB headset for participation in online web conferences and classes
  • a USB-C multiport adapter if your computer lacks USB-A ports
    • a USB-C multi-port adapter that provides ethernet, USB-A, and video out (HDMI) is recommended if your computer lacks these ports

Warranty Coverage

We highly recommend purchasing a warranty that will cover your laptop throughout your time of study at the School of Pharmacy. If accidental damage coverage is available, we recommend purchasing that as well if you are traveling to and from campus.

If you are taking classes on campus, make sure that your laptop is:

  • free from damage or faulty components
  • free from viruses and malware
  • up to date with the latest operating system and security patches

What if I want to use a tablet or Chromebook?

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

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

  • Android tablets
  • iPads, including the iPad Pro
  • Chromebooks
  • Devices with the Linux operating system
  • Microsoft Surface tablets/computers

NOTE: Only devices with the FULL Windows 10 or 11 operating system or the macOS operating system are supported at this time.

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