Computer Science majors are not currently required to own a laptop. However, as of Fall 2008, courses at the 300-level and above may presume ownership of a laptop computer.

Computer Science majors are encouraged by buy a Windows-based computer rather than a MacIntosh since no MacIntosh-specific software is used in CS courses. However, some CS majors use an Intel-based MacIntosh to run Windows-based software used in CS courses and some software used in CS courses is multi-platform and available on Windows, MacIntosh, or Linux systems.

A sub-$1,000 computer will suffice for most CS majors. CS120 and CS121, taken by most CS majors as freshman, uses Java and Eclipse. This software freeware, but Eclipse does not run well on machines with under 1GB of RAM. If purchasing a new machine it is recommeded to get one with Linux or Microsoft Windows as an operating system. If using Windows Vista you will want 2GB of RAM. Large hard drives or special 3D graphics cards are not required (although many CS majors own computers with fast 3D graphics cards to play games).

Ball State's WiFi network is excellent and uses 802.11g. Almost all laptops currently being sold are compatible with this tecnology standard. On campus student housing and many off-campus apartment complexes also provide wired Ethernet connections with free Internet service. Off campus dial-up service is not recommended. Either cable modems or DSL should provide adequate service for students who live off-campus.

While laptops are being required of juniors and seniors (as of 2008), the department strongly encourages freshman and sophmores to own their own computer be it a laptop or desktop. The majority of CS majors responding to a 2007 survey said they owned both desktop and a laptop and all respondants said they already owned a deskop computer.

If you are getting need-based financial aid, you may be able to get a one-time increase in need-based aid to help finance your computer. See Scholarships and Financial Aid for more information.

Once enrolled as a student you may make use of the University's Computer Showcase Center to help you in selecting an appropriate laptop made by Gateway and obtaining a modest discount off their list price. The Computer Showcase Center also offers significant discounts on a variety of Microsoft and Adobe products to current students.