Beginning in the fall of 2005, DePauw University instituted a mandatory laptop requirement for all incoming students. That year, all first- and second-year students were required to purchase a laptop computer for use in course and campus activities. In subsequent years, all entering students are required to purchase a system designated by the University.
This program is a key step with DePauw's pioneering 361° Information Technology Programs, which were launched in the spring of 2001 to establish DePauw as the preeminent liberal arts college in the use of technology to enhance teaching and learning and to prepare students for professional success after graduation.
Before DePauw instituted the Laptop Program, we realized that that 95% of our students were already bringing computers to campus. We also knew that students nationally were spending on average $1,800 to $2,400 on computers for their first year and that 80% of those computers were purchased as presents during their senior year in high school. Our laptop program enabled DePauw us to leverage these investments that parents and students were already making to improve the learning experience while reducing technology costs for the average DePauw family. The initiative also helps the University to sustain its technology resources and leadership position in a more cost-effective and sustainable manner.