Laptop Computer Requirements for Predoctoral Students

Pre-doctoral students (four-year and Advanced Standing programs) are required to have a laptop computer. Laptops provide access to learning resources that are used within the classroom, as well as dental-related PC-based software applications that enhance the education at the Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine.

The school strongly recommends that you use a PC-based laptop. Students will be using software applications that work with the PC-based format only. Macs and iPads are not compatible with most of the school’s clinical applications.

Laptops must support native encryption. Windows 10 or Windows 11 Professional or Enterprise edition must be used. Home edition is not supported.

BU policy requires any endpoint device (e.g., desktop, laptop, or phone) used for accessing, processing, or storing HIPAA data or personally identifiable health information acquired for, or used in research to have the following:

  • Operating system and applications that are supported and updated
  • Anti-malware installed and set to auto update and scan
  • Authentication (e.g., strong password) enabled
  • Disk encryption
  • Auto screen lock / logoff (15 min max)

Windows home edition is not supported as it does not support native encryption

Do what you can with our guidance at BU TechWeb, then ask for help from GSDM IT.

The laptop must meet or exceed the following minimum requirements:

Processor

  • Intel Core I5 processor
  • TPM chip recommended to streamline encryption process but not required

Memory

  • 8GB

Drives

  • 256 GB hard drive

Communications

  • Wireless: 802.11 a/b/g/n

Software

  • Microsoft Office
  • Windows 10 or Windows 11 Professional or Enterprise edition (Home edition not supported)

Microsoft Office is available to current students at no-cost (see page for eligibility requirements)

Information about discounts for BU students

If you do not already own a suitable laptop, you will need to obtain a qualifying laptop prior to the start of classes. You may purchase your laptop computer from the vendor of your choice.

During Orientation, all pre-doctoral students will attend an information session presented by staff of the Information Technology department of the Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine. Students should take their laptop computers to this meeting.

For questions regarding laptop requirements, please contact GSDM Information Technology at dentit@bu.edu or 617-358-4300.