Step 1: Get ready for coursework and campus life

 Buying a computer

It’s not essential to have your own device at university. You will have access to approximately 2,000 computer workstations across all campuses and in most halls of residence. There is also a laptop loan service available for students to use.

If you are planning to buy a computer before you arrive, please consider carefully which is the right device and spec for your subject area:

• The file size and applications you use will determine the best device to support your studies. For example, processing power, local memory and storage capacity.
• Many applications are Windows only, while applications for some creative-led subjects work better on Macs. So please think about which operating system you need (Window / Mac / Linux) before purchasing a new device.
• Please be aware that we don't recommend Chromebooks. These have limitations which can cause issues accessing certain teaching applications and services.

You may have already had advice from your school but if not, there’s no rush. You can always ask your tutor when you arrive or visit one of our Tech Hubs for guidance.

We recommend you shop around to get the best deal as many laptop and desktop computer retailers offer significant student discounts. Please note, you may need to provide proof of your student status when purchasing a device. 

🔐 Cyber security tip: If you are buying a second-hand device, please make sure it is from a reputable supplier to minimise the risk of malware or other cyber security issues. We also recommend you do a factory re-set and install any required updates. In Windows this is the ‘Remove everything option’ in ‘Reset this PC’.

 Microsoft 365 applications

Microsoft 365 is available to all students for free.

This will give you access to a range of Microsoft applications to support your studies, including:

• Teams, which is used for most courses across all faculties at the University.
• Email: Please check your emails regularly. The University will send important information via this email address. For example, information about your course, fees and accommodation.
• OneDrive, for secure file storage.
• Other Microsoft applications, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and more.

Once you have set up your IT account, you can sign into the Microsoft 365 apps online or visit this link to download Microsoft 365 apps to your personal devices. You can find guidance on how to do this in the Knowledge Base and can install it on up to five devices.

For full details on how to use OneDrive file storage, Teams, Outlook and more please check this Microsoft 365 information specifically designed for new students .

Please note, if you already have a Microsoft 365 license please don’t uninstall it. Visit one of the Tech Hubs to discuss the best set up for you.

🔐 Cyber security tip: Email phishing is a significant security risk. Phishing attempts are getting harder to spot, and some will still get past even the most observant users. Make sure you know how to spot them and what to do: Phishing emails - how to spot them and what to do (sharepoint.com)

 IT skills

Students start university with varying levels of IT experience. So, to help prepare you for your first day we have developed this learning pathway. From navigating Outlook to using email effectively – check out this resource before you start your course. Student IT skills induction 2024-25

You will need to login to LinkedIn Learning using your university credentials. LinkedIn Learning is a platform you’ll find very useful whilst at university for training and future career activities. When you set it up you will be asked to choose certain topics you are interested in. Find out more about setting it up .