Laptop Computer Requirement

Computer proficiency is a critical job skill for professionals working in Wildlife and Fisheries Conservation. During your time at UMaine, you will need a computer for almost every course you take, and in your classes you will learn a variety of software applications that are used on a daily basis by working fish and wildlife professionals.  So that you are prepared to engage with your courses and to learn the tools needed for your careers, we require all students to have a well-equipped and functional laptop computer capable of running a Microsoft Windows operating system (Windows 11 or newer). It is important to have a Windows-based computer as there are a number of specialized softwares important to our field that only run on Windows.  

Alternatives to laptops, such as netbooks, tablets, ipads, and chromebooks will not function for all your courses, and are not a viable alternative.  Many of your classes will require you to use your computer for in-class labs, assignments, or exercises, and so a desktop computer will also not meet your computing needs.  

Any Windows-based PC laptop available from the UMaine Bookstore should be sufficient for any coursework required of students for their degree.  Below we provide recommendations for two laptops currently available for purchase from the UMaine Bookstore.  You may be eligible to apply your institutional financial aid towards the cost. 

Recommended: Dell Inspiron 16 plus, available from the UMaine Bookstore. 

Minimum acceptable: Dell Inspiron 3530, available from the UMaine Bookstore. 

You are not required to purchase your laptop through the UMaine bookstore – other laptops that match the system requirements described for these computers are also acceptable.  We recommend at least the following minimums: 

• Windows 11 
• 16 GB RAM (minimum) 32 GB (preferred)
• A dedicated graphics card. 
• 500 GB storage