Digital tools are a key part of your course materials. We therefore recommend that students purchase a new laptop computer for law school. CWSL recommends and supports laptop computers running Windows or Mac OS X.
We recommend that a Windows or Mac computer used for law school meet or exceed the following specifications:
• Processor: Intel Core I5 or I7 or better, 2Ghz or faster. Mac M1 or M2 Processor
• RAM: Minimum 8 GB RAM or more, 16GB preferred.
• Hard Drive: 250 GB or more
Software:
• Operating System:
Windows 11.
macOS 12 (Monterey) or above.
• Word Processing Software: Microsoft Word / Office 365.
This can be obtained (for no charge) through the school, after you activate your network account.
• Operating System, Browser Support, and Antivirus programs. Make sure you have auto-update set for operating system patches and security software updates. Ensure you are using the latest web browser version as well.
Online Classes:
Due to some classes being online, a webcam is required.
We strongly recommend that a student use a headset and microphone for online classes, and not rely on the microphone and speakers built into the laptop computer.
Tablets: We have recently received a number of questions from prospective students about using tablets, such as iPads, at school. A tablet is a very useful and versatile device and can be very useful at school. However, a tablet cannot take the place of a full powered laptop.
A tablet CANNOT be used for exams.
We recommend that you do not try to use a tablet as a replacement for a laptop or desktop computer for law school.
A few hints about buying a new laptop.
We recommend that you purchase a new computer for law school, and not rely on the same computer used for your undergrad school. The older your laptop is, the greater the chance you will have to repair or replace it during law school. Remember, this will probably be the computer you will use for the next three years. You will probably be using this computer to take the bar exam.
Get a good one!
Please know CWSL is not only concerned with protecting school related data, but your own sensitive personal information outside of the school as well. Keeping your operating system, web browser and security software up to date will go a long way to keeping your school experience safe.
Take a good look at the specifications we have posted, and make sure your new computer meets or exceeds those specifications. Get the fastest processor you can afford, and as much RAM as you can afford. For Intel processors, get an I5 or better running at 2Ghz or better. For RAM, get at least eight gigabytes, more if you can afford it.
Once you have determined that a laptop has the power to do the job, make sure you are comfortable with the laptop:
• Screen size is important. Make sure you can clearly read everything on the screen.
• Test out the keyboard. Make sure you are comfortable with it, and you can type quickly and accurately.
• Check out the weight. Remember, you will be carrying this weight around almost everywhere you go. Get yourself a good bag to carry your computer and all the accessories that will go with it.
For exams, we use a program called Examplify, from ExamSoft. This is the same software used by the California Bar Exam. Use of Examplify is mandatory for exams. The current version of Examplify will run Windows 10 and 11 and macOS 12 or higher.
Questions?
Daniel Starnes Student Network Systems Manager 619-525-1473
dstarnes@cwsl.edu EdTech@cwsl.edu