UC Blue Ash College students will need a laptop computer that runs either Windows or Macintosh operating systems and can be brought to class when required for in-class computer usage. This laptop requirement ensures you will have adequate and timely access to the electronic resources necessary to be a successful UCBA student. Chromebooks or tablets cannot access all of the electronic educational material used at UC Blue Ash, so they are therefore not considered a suitable replacement.

Please note that E-Media Communications and Art and Visual Communications programs have more specific laptop requirements. Students enrolling in transfer programs should also consider any laptop requirements of their intended transfer program.

How It Benefits Students

The technology requirement contributes to our students' education by providing:

• More meaningful learning experiences.
• Enhanced student services.
• Significant textbook savings.
• More effective note-taking capabilities.
• Portability: enabling you to easily carry all of your resources with you all the time.
• Students’ and faculty’s ability to instantly generate and share media rich content.
• Multiple uses: no need to buy a separate camera, digital recorder, calculator, PRS clicker, etc.
• Extended use: long battery life allows you to make it through the day without charging.

Laptop Requirement FAQs

When am I required to have a laptop?

The new requirement is in effect for the 2018-19 academic year.

Why do we require a laptop?

We are focused on doing everything we can to support student success and this initiative is part of that ongoing effort. Almost all of our courses now require online access to get course assignments and course-related materials on a regular basis. Having your own laptop ensures convenient access to the instructional media and tools you will need to complete you schoolwork.

What if I’m not able to get a laptop by the time school begins?

This is a new requirement so we will work to accommodate all students who might need more time to get a laptop. We already provide a variety of options for temporary solutions – you can check out a laptop from our library, or check with your professor about the possibility of reserving a laptop cart for your class. Our computer concourse will also still be available in Muntz Hall (across from the Library).

Can I use financial aid to buy a laptop?

Your financial aid can be used to buy a laptop in the same manner you would buy a textbook.  If you receive a financial aid refund after tuition and fees are paid, you can use those funds to buy books and supplies. A laptop is considered part of your school supplies. If you have questions about aid or whether you can adjust the amount you have accepted, please visit our UCBA One Stop Office in Muntz Hall, Room 150.

What kind of laptop should I get, are there recommended specifications?

For most classes this is a matter of preference, but general recommended specifications are available in the table further up this page. As long as your existing laptop meets the minimum specifications and is functional, it should meet the requirement.

Students in the Art and Visual Communication and Electronic Media programs are required to have laptops with more robust specifications. Apple Macintosh laptops are strongly recommended for those programs.

Where should I buy a laptop?

You can take the recommended specifications to any computing store, and we encourage you to comparison shop to find the best value.

Can I use a tablet or Chromebook instead?

In most cases the answer is no. A tablet or Chromebook may be used as a supporting, secondary device, but for a primary device, you need a laptop.  Some learning software used by the University has no support or very limited features on tablets and Chromebooks. You will not be able to do coursework on a smartphone.