Program technology requirements

You need your own computer and technology accessories to study at NSCC. What you need depends on the program you choose. If you already have a computer, it may already meet your program requirements. Make sure you check.

Confirm what you need

Review the costs and fees information for your program to find out which system is recommended for it.

Having a computer that works with the College’s minimum software and systems will help ensure you can use the tools and services we offer.

Due to a lack of compatibility with required software, we do not recommend you use:

• Chromebooks
• Macintosh computers (except for specific programs)
  • If you already have a Macintosh, you'll need to ensure your NSCC program doesn’t require you to use software that’s only available on a Windows computer.

Student technology discounts

Dell

We've partnered with Dell to provide you (and your friends and family) with discounts on Dell computers. To view these exclusive offers:

• Visit https://www.dell.ca/nscc
• Create an account and log in (please use your personal email address, not your NSCC email address).
• Click the green button called “Shop your standard configuration” to access discounts.

Order tracking is available online and by phone at 1-800-387-5757 (option 4). 

If you have questions or concerns, or require technical support with logging in or placing your order, please contact Dell and reference page #RC1462676. 

Eastlink

Eastlink is offering deals on internet packages to NSCC students, including guaranteed pricing and no contracts (and for a limited time, Eastlink is offering a $50 new customer welcome credit to NSCC students when they complete their order for internet service online). 

Computer and technology accessory recommendations

Technology accessories

Students involved in learning online may also choose to purchase:

• Headset with microphone (approximately $60) - Skype/Teams certified USB or Bluetooth
• Webcam (approximately $100) - an external Skype/Teams-certified webcam may be needed if your computer doesn’t have one.

Windows computers

These are the recommended minimum system requirements for NSCC students.

1. Budget computer - Cost is approximately $500 - $800
   • Windows 11
   • i5/i7 intel or AMD Ryzan 5 Processor or higher
   • 256 SSD or higher
   • 8 GB RAM or higher
   • Integrated graphics
2. Mid-range computer - Cost is approximately $800 - $1,300
   • Windows 11
   • i5/i7 Intel or Intel Core 7, AMD Ryzen 7 Processor or higher
   • 256 SSD or higher
   • 16 GB RAM or higher
   • Integrated graphics
3. Performance computer - Cost is approximately $1,800 -  $2,300
   • Windows 11
   • Intel Ultra 7 Processor
   • 1 TB SSD or higher
   • 32 GB RAM or higher
   • Integrated or discrete graphics
4. High-performance computers (see 2 options below)

• Option 1 - High performance workstation computer - Cost is approximately $3,500 and up
  • Windows 11
  • Intel Core i9, Intel Xeon W3 OR AMD Ryzen 5 series Processor
  • 512 GB SSD
  • 64 GB RAM
  • AMD Radeon RX 6500 4GB, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 or higher
• Option 2 - High Performance Gaming Computer - Cost is approximately $2,700 and up
  • Windows 11
  • Intel i7/i9 Processor OR AMD Ryzen 5 series or higher
  • 1 TB SSD
  • 32 GB RAM
  • NVIDIA RTX 4060 series or better w/min 8GB GDDR6, or equivalent

Macintosh computers

MacBook computers are only recommended for specific NSCC programs. Review the costs and fees information for your program to find out which system is recommended for it. If you already own a Macintosh, you'll need to confirm with your instructors that your program doesn’t require software that operates only on Windows.

1. Budget MacBook - Cost is approximately $1,500
   • M2 or M3 Processor
   • 8 GB of memory (RAM)
   • 256 GB SSD Internal Storage
2. Mid-range MacBook Pro - Cost is approximately $2,400
   • M2 or M3 Processor
   • 16 GB of memory (RAM)
   • 512 GB SSD Internal Storage