The MajorSuccess Program
Iowa State University requires students to have a laptop computer or a device suitable for their major. MajorSuccess is a program developed by the ISU Book Store in collaboration with academic departments across the university. Its purpose is to provide each student with a tailored and accurate technology recommendation based on their chosen major. In addition, MajorSuccess offers valuable insights from a student perspective, along with information on technology savings, essential accessories, service options, and post-graduation benefits.
Learn more about your College's recommendation:
SEE OFFICIAL RECOMMENDATION:
Click here to view detailed recommendations
SHOP COMPUTERS:
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NOTE: A PC/Windows computer is recommended for the following programs/majors: Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Statistics, Animal Science, and Technology Systems Management (TSM)/Fluid Power Systems. Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering majors, see College of Engineering PC recommendations instead.
SEE OFFICIAL RECOMMENDATION:
Click here to view the College of Design computer recommendations
SHOP COMPUTERS:
NOTE:After completing the Core (usually 2nd year), undergraduate students admitted into a Design major and Design graduate programs are presented with the opportunity to purchase a laptop through the College of Design Laptop Program. Click here to learn more about this program.
Architecture, Community & Regional Planning, BPMI, GIS, Industrial Design, Interior Design, and Landscape Architecture departments recommend Windows OS platform because select applications used in these majors may only be available for PCs/Windows OS.
Windows can be run on a Mac using BootCamp or an application like Parallels or VMWare Fusion, but IT support for this will be limited and computer performance may be affected. The newest Apple M1 processor is not currently capable of running BootCamp. If you select an Apple with this processor you will need to utilize the College of Design computer labs to complete some of your classwork.
Some software within the Interior Design program (and possibly others) will require your computer to have a discrete graphics card. These can be found in the Dell XPS 15 and Apple 16-inch MacBook Pro. If you choose a computer without this style of card you will need to utilize the College of Design computer labs. We recommend speaking with your advisor or College IT staff to determine what will work best for your needs.
Graphic Design and some Integrated Studio Arts users tend to prefer Apple’s Mac OS X platform. The Graphic Design Program requires an Apple MacBook Pro laptop in their studios to maximize instruction efficiency and align with industry standards.
SEE OFFICIAL RECOMMENDATION:
Click here to view the College of Engineering computer recommendations
SHOP COMPUTERS:
NOTE: Note that some of the Engineering software is only available on Windows (i.e. Solidworks). This should be taken into consideration when choosing a suitable computer to purchase for your major. If you find your laptop can’t handle a particular Engineering application, there are remote computing options available.
SEE OFFICIAL RECOMMENDATION:
Click here to view the College of Human Sciences computer recommendations
SHOP COMPUTERS:
NOTE: The choice of operating system between Microsoft Windows or Apple macOS is up to each individual. All applications required for CHS coursework are available via a virtual computer lab which can be accessed from any operating system.
Click here for Ivy College of Business virtual lab information (software recommendations vary by major)
SHOP COMPUTERS:
NOTE: Note that some software used for Ivy College of Business courses is only available on Windows/PC computers (i.e. Microsoft Access). This should be taken into consideration when choosing a suitable computer to purchase for your major. Accounting majors, in particular, are encouraged to use a Windows computer.
SEE OFFICIAL RECOMMENDATION:
Click here to view the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences computer recommendations
SHOP COMPUTERS:
NOTE: The choice of operating system between Microsoft Windows or Apple macOS is up to each individual. Most applications used by majors within LAS will run on either operating system, or can be accessed remotely on servers or lab computers provided by the College or Department.
Visit College of Veterinary Medicine Technology Page
SEE OFFICIAL RECOMMENDATION:
We understand that deciding a major for your college can be challenging! We also understand that buying a laptop is a 4-year investment and you want to purchase the right one to get you through college, and potentially longer. Our team can discuss the majors you are potentially interested in, and discuss your computer recommendations accordingly. Get in touch with us during your in-person orientation visit or reach out to us using the Contact Us button.
CUSTOM-CONFIGURED COMPUTERS:
If you are interested in ordering a custom-configuered laptop, we can special order a computer for you tax-free (subject to a wait time of 2-4 weeks). Use the button below to share your custom specifications/model information with us and get a quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
TechCyte is the authorized campus store for Apple and Dell computers and provides computer models from both of these brands. We are also the on-campus vendor for laptops and 2-in-1 tablets from Microsoft.
APPLE
Education Pricing:
As the Apple Authorized Campus Store, Cyclones save between $100–$400 with education pricing on Apple computers compared to other retailers.
DELL
Education Pricing:
Cyclones save an extra 10–15% OFF the retail price on Dell computers with education pricing.
4-Year Dell Premium Support Plus Warranty:
Compared to a 1-year Dell warranty that other retailers provide, TechCyte provides a 4-year Dell Premium Support Plus Warranty with all our Dell computers. This warranty includes unlimited repairs and one accidental damage repair per year during the 4-year period. Exclusions include fire, theft, complete submergence, Acts of God, intentional damages, etc.
No Sales Tax:
Save an additional 7% on computers with tax-free purchases. This can translate to savings between $69–$174 for Dell and between $62–$251 on Apple computers—good enough to get a pair of AirPods, AppleCare+ extension, or essential accessories.
OTHER BRANDS
Cyclones save 7% with no sales tax on tablets or desktops ordered through TechCyte. This also includes components and peripherals like external monitors, SSDs, printers, cables, and accessories.
There are strong arguments on both sides. Some retailers say technology improves over time. TechCyte recommends buying after spring revisions (usually early June) to allow time to get familiar with your new computer, set up required software, and understand accessory needs (adapters, cases, external mouse, etc.). Plus, it’s one less thing when classes start!
We provide our Major Success guide to help narrow your device choices based on your major’s needs. Since each student is unique, we work with you to determine the best fit. If you can’t make it in to the store, call or email anytime, and we’ll help figure it out.
After completing the Core Design Program, undergraduates in a Design major (and Design graduate students) can purchase a laptop through the College of Design. This lets students pay for a laptop per semester and includes design software and tech support. Participation is optional. Click here for more about the Laptop Lease Program.
Office 365 ProPlus for Students is free via the Student Advantage program. Students can log in to Office 365 and download the latest Office for free on Windows, Mac, and mobile. Requires an active ISU email. Go to office365.iastate.edu to get started. Our on-campus Solution Center can also assist online or by phone at 515-294-4000.
Windows can run on a Mac via virtualization software like Parallels or VMware Fusion. Parallels is available as a 1-year license through TechCyte.
Every student needs Microsoft Office, which is free for students. Some majors require specific packages—your instructor will inform you once classes start. Many recommended titles are free. Visit IT Software for Students for details.
Keep your OS updated to stay secure. Both macOS and Windows include built-in antivirus and malware safeguards.
All residence halls support the latest wireless technology. Wi-Fi access points are in each room and common areas, each with three Ethernet ports. For faster speeds, plug in via Ethernet. Wi-Fi covers nearly all of campus, including many outdoor spaces.
For questions, contact the IT Solution Center!
TechCyte Service Center—right here at the ISU Book Store—handles on-campus repairs. Our staff is trained and authorized to repair devices from these brands.
Click here for more on our Apple & Dell Authorized Service Center.
For university-specific access or program issues (e.g., email, Workday Student, ISU account support, network issues unrelated to hardware), the Solution Center in Parks Library can help.
Click here for Solution Center details.