Purchase Programs

The purchase of a computer, whether for personal use or for the college, is an important and costly decision. This section provides an overview of the available options, recommendations and discount programs for hardware, software and cell phones.

When purchasing new equipment, it is important to understand the computing environment on campus and the available service options. Ithaca College purchases Dell and Apple equipment and has certified technicians on-site to service college-owned equipment and personal equipment for students. Approximately 75% of the campus community uses Windows computers and 25% uses Mac computers. Both operating systems can be found in the computer labs across campus. Microsoft Office (Word, Powerpoint and Excel) 2007 for Windows and Microsoft Office 2008 for Macs is the productivity software used in campus offices and in labs.

Purchasing Guidelines

The purchase of college owned equipment for faculty and staff is strictly regulated and must adhere to the budget guidelines and process. Once purchased, the majority of college owned equipment becomes part of the Technology Renewal Program and is replaced every three years.

The Park School of Communications strongly recommends that students purchase a MacBook Pro laptop, and the School of Business requires that all incoming first-year students purchase or bring a laptop equipped with Microsoft Office. Students in other disciplines and schools can purchase whatever hardware and software best meets their needs.

Education Discount Display

ITS maintains a computer display outside of the Helpdesk showcasing some of the current Dell and Macintosh desktop and laptop options. Stop by if you are thinking about purchasing a new computer. All personal computer purchases are made directly with the vendor, not through ITS.

GetIT

The GetIT program provides resources and guidelines for purchasing college-owned equipment.

Software

Software can be purchased at educational prices from the Ithaca College Bookstore and from many retailers and online companies. Site licenses for SPSS Statistics and NotifyLink can be ordered through ITS.

Adobe Cumulative License Program (CLP)

Ithaca College participates in the Adobe Cumulative Licensing Program. Purchases are made through the Ithaca College Bookstore; many titles are available at significant savings to students, faculty and staff for both personal and departmental use.