Personal Computing
To be successful in your courses here at Phoenix College, it is highly recommended that students have a mobile computer to use both at home as well as on campus. This allows students to be flexible in where they can complete their work and be successful in their courses.
Computer Recommendations
There are a large number of computer options on the market. To provide some guidance, Phoenix College recommends the following minimum and recommended computer specifications for student success at Phoenix College and beyond.
Please note: This is a guideline for general coursework. Students in programs using more intense programs (Art, Engineering, Computer Science) may benefit from higher specifications due to their workload.
Platform: Windows 10/11 or MacOS (Chromebooks and iPads are not recommended and may not be compatible with all coursework)
Minimum Specifications
Intel Core i5 processor or Apple M1 processor or better
RAM: 8 GB (16 GB recommended)
Storage: 250 GB SSD (500 GB recommended)
Graphics: Integrated graphics
Available Technology Tools
We have built a short document with links to some of the free technology tools available through Phoenix College to use on a personal computer. This includes campus wifi, Microsoft Office, and Sophos Antivirus. You can also find more tools on the Available Home Use Software page.
Purchase Options
PCs For People
PCs For People is a national non-profit that offers low-cost, quality refurbished computers to individuals and families with low income. They also offer low-cost internet access. They have a rotating inventory of computers of various specifications, and you can browse those at the link above.
Dell
Phoenix College has a partnership with Dell where employees and students can purchase computers at a discounted price. You can browse the options at the link above to see what is available to you.
Apple
Apple has an education program with discounted computers available to employees and students of Phoenix College. You can browse the options at the link above to see what is available to you.
Phoenix College Loan2Own
Phoenix College’s Loan2Own program allows eligible students to obtain a laptop computer that, upon completion of their certificate or degree, becomes theirs to keep. As part of this program, students must:
- Be a certificate/degree-seeking student
- Be enrolled in at least 6 credit hours
- Demonstrate financial need
Each semester, the Loan2Own program has a priority deadline to apply, however you are welcome to apply after these dates and throughout the remainder of the year. Participation in Loan2Own is subject to meeting the criteria as well as the availability of computers throughout the year.
Below are the priority deadlines for upcoming semesters.
- Summer 2024 - Open Now
- Fall 2024 - Monday, August 12, 2024
Please use the link below to apply for the program, and the Phoenix College Counseling department will contact you to set up an appointment to review your application, the requirements of the program, and set up qualified students with a computer.