Westminster's Mobile Computing Initiative (MCI)

Westminster students are required to have access to a laptop computer that meets minimum specifications. A recent survey of Westminster students asked how many students currently own or has access to a laptop. 91% of the respondents replied that they did. Because student access to a laptop computer is required, and important to Westminster’s educational experience, students who have financial need should contact the college’s Office of Financial Aid for assistance.

Here are a few ways the Information Services Department supports the initiative.

Westminster Anywhere Platform: The software allows students to access a remote “computer lab” from a computer anywhere they have adequate Internet access. This extends our licensed software, network file storage and other resources traditionally only accessible on campus computers to an individual’s computer both on and off campus.

Expansion of the Wireless Network: A wireless access point has been installed in every academic area. This includes classrooms, auditoriums, and student lounge areas. Wireless is also available in student resident halls. Students will need to authenticate to the wireless network using their college username and password. 

Installing Rental and Charging Stations: Two rental stations on campus are designed to provide an alternative if a student laptop breaks or they forget theirs. The rented laptops will have the Westminster platform pre-installed and will be provided to the student with a fully charged battery. We are also installing charging stations in many buildings across campus. These charging stations are a plug-n-go set-up; the students can plug their laptops in, lock it up, and go grab lunch.

Laptop Certification Program: We have created a program where students can visit the General Computing Lab, and receive assistance/instructions on how to connect to wireless and Westminster Anywhere. This program will verify the student’s laptop is ready for class.

Want to learn more? Check out the Mobile Computing Initiative website.