The College of Business includes majors from the following departments:

• Accounting and Professional Accountancy
• Finance, Insurance, and Law
• Management and Quantitative Methods
• Marketing
• Business Administration and Master of Business Administration
• Business Information Systems

Platform and Operating System (Mac vs. Windows)

The College of Business recommends Illinois State University's "New Advanced" specifications with Microsoft Windows. Windows is recommended over MacOS because our business partners widely use it. Also, most data-analytic software is developed specifically for the Windows platform. Finally, macOS users encounter cross-platform software complications and costs. Even with these adaptations, some class-assigned software will not work, requiring more lab time.

Computer Specifications

Mobile computing has become a vital part of business culture, which reflects in classwork and project assignments. Accordingly, the College of Business recommends a laptop computer over a desktop, with "New Advanced" specifications as described on the TechZone computer specifications page. While basic software will run on a basic laptop, advanced graphics and data analytic software require a more high-end processor, extra ram and storage, or even a Graphics Processor Unit (GPU). These requirements should inform the choice of laptop. Remember that you are investing in a device to use for four years. Using a device with minimal specifications can be a frustrating and limiting experience. Laptop size is no longer a reliable performance indicator but should be considered in light of personal preference. Larger screens and keyboards add weight but improve usability. Small laptops are ideal for the person on the go.

Most tablets are useful as a complement to a full-featured computer, not as a substitute for one.

A Business major will find that a computer that meets the following specs meets the needs of their major:

• Current generation Intel or AMD processor
• Minimum of 16GB memory
• Minimum of 500+GB SSD storage
• A 3 or 4-year warranty that includes Accidental Damage coverage

A selection of models sold at TechZone that meet these requirements are found at the end of this page.  For a complete listing of models, return to the home page by clicking the TechZone logo above and browsing by brand.  This list is by no means exhaustive and provides only a small example of the models available.

TechZone recommends a primary computing device with a full-featured Windows or Mac operating System. Chromebooks, iPads, and some entry-level Windows devices are not sufficient for all needs across the University but can be used as secondary devices.

Software Recommendations

Office 365 is a service available to all faculty, staff, and students at Illinois State University. It allows you to:

• Access your email and files from anywhere, on any device
• Store your files in the University-connected OneDrive cloud for anywhere-access to your stuff
• Download the latest version of Microsoft Office for installation on your laptop or desktop computer
• Install the Microsoft Office App on your mobile devices
• Access Microsoft Office Online (a simplified version of Microsoft Office) even on systems that do not have Microsoft Office installed.

Need assistance installing Microsoft Office? Visit TechZone Service Center in the Bone Student Center for in-person assistance or watch either of the following videos: Windows or MacOS

Adobe Creative Cloud is available to students. Access can be requested at Adobe at ISU

In the course of individual and team projects, students can expect to use other advanced, specialized software in our computer labs. Depending on the course of study, expect two or more classes requiring lab work. In some cases, the software is provided for students to install on their own laptops running Microsoft Windows. It should be noted that the Google Docs platform, while ideal for many purposes, is not an industry standard among the college’s business partners.

Additional Information

Lab Time and Computer Availability information can be found on the COB Lab Page. In addition, all students have access to Microsoft OneDrive as part of the university platform. OneDrive is an invaluable tool for storing files, and for sharing and collaboration in team assignments.