Orientation is mandatory for all students.

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LAPTOP COMPUTER REQUIREMENT FOR PREDOCTORAL STUDENTS

Predoctoral 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 Goldman School of Dental Medicine.  In addition, students have the option of selecting their required dental text book content on a digital platform, called VISTi, instead of traditional paper textbooks.

The school strongly recommends that you use a PC-based laptop because the dental curriculum software applications are PC-based.  We discourage reliance on Macintosh-based computers, and it is the responsibility of students to ensure that they have either a PC computer or a Macintosh computer that is compatible with school and university programs.  Also, laptop rather than desktop computers are necessary because of their increased portability for in-class use.

You may already have an eligible laptop.  The laptop must meet or exceed the following minimum requirements: 

PC-based
1.83GHz
80GB Hard Drive
DVD dual
1GB Memory
Ethernet 1GB
Modem 56K
Integrated Wi-Fi wireless b/g
TFT Display 14.1" XGA
Battery, 6 Cell
Windows XP Professional / Vista

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.  If you wish to buy your laptop in Boston, you may consider the University Computers store at Boston University.  You can telephone University Computers at (617)353-1800 or visit their website at http://www.bu.edu/univcomp/.  As an authorized dealer for major laptop brands, University Computers makes available a student laptop package.  You can choose from a variety of PC laptop brands with guaranteed price reductions.   You need to budget an average of $1,800 for the latest state-of-the-art laptop and related peripherals. 

During Orientation Week, all Predoctoral students will attend an information session presented by staff of the Information Technology department of the School of Dental Medicine.  Students should take their laptop computers to this meeting.