Pharm.D. students are required to have the following:
Laptop Computer
Hardware Requirements
| Minimum | Recommended | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Windows 10 or macOS Big Sur (11) | Windows 11 Education or macOS Ventura (13) |
| Processor | Intel or AMD dual-core CPU | Latest generation Intel, AMD, or Apple Silicon |
| Memory (RAM) | 8GB | 16GB |
| Storage | 256GB Solid State Drive (SSD) | 512GB (NVMe SSD) |
| Network | Wifi capable | Ethernet & Wifi capable |
| Battery | 3-hour+ battery life | 6-hour battery life |
A webcam (included with most laptops), USB headset with microphone, and access to a printer are all highly recommended.
Whole Disk Encryption
Students are required to encrypt the hard drives on their personal laptops. Disk encryption helps to prevent unauthorized, physical access of the data stored on your computer. This is necessary if your computer houses any Restricted data, which may occur during clinical rotations. Please visit our Student Encryption Guide for more information on how to encrypt your computer.
- Windows 11/10 Device or BitLocker drive encryption is available depending on the version of Windows (Home, Pro, Education, etc). See the student encryption guide above for more details.
- Apple macOS: macOS devices have a built-in encryption option, FileVault. This should be used over other options.
Please note: COP IT will not provide technical support for your encryption software purchase. Please contact the software manufacturer. If you are new to computers or whole disk encryption we highly advise the purchase of a commercially available product where the vendor will be able to assist with the installation of their software.
Privacy Filter
All students must have a privacy filter for their computer or any other device screen that will be used for exam testing and in-class quizzes.
- Students may select the privacy filter brand of their choice but two recommended options are 3M and Fellowes.
- Students who are not using a privacy filter during an exam or quiz, or using a privacy filter that does not meet the specifications of one of the two brands listed above, may be excused from the assessment. The incident will be processed as an academic dishonesty violation.
High-Speed Internet
Access to broadband internet (FCC Broandband Q&A).
- High speed internet access of at least 25 Mbps DOWN and 3 Mbps UP.
- Test your internet speed HERE.
Anti-Virus Software
- Windows: Windows Security is included with Windows 10 and Windows 11.
- macOS: anti-virus software is highly recommended but we cannot make any specific recommendations.
Recommended Tablet – NOT REQUIRED
A tablet is NOT required. However, if you use a tablet as a supplemental device to your laptop, the recommended tablet is any iPad capable of running iPadOS 14 or higher. See Privacy Filter requirement above if you plan to use such a device for exam testing or in-class quizzes.
NOTE: While a Chromebook, iPad or iPad Pro may be used for certain college courses, they do not meet the minimum standards.
Highly Suggested – Duo Mobile App
UF requires multi-factor authentication through Duo Mobile on Gatorlink accounts. We recommend downloading and configuring the Duo Mobile app in addition to registering your phone number. The app allows push and passcode authentication, which can be useful when cellular or internet connections are not available.
Duo Moble App links: