New Students FAQ

The University of West Georgia requires all students to have ready access to a computer as students will be expected to use a computer for coursework. Purchasing a new or used computer is not required but recommended. The University provides some computer labs on campus; however, access to these labs at times may be limited. Students are responsible for making plans necessary for timely completion of their class assignments. All students must have access to e-mail, word processing, spreadsheet, and web browsing software. For more details on what is recommended view the list of commonly asked questions below.

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The short answer is YES. You will need your own computer OR access to a computer as a student at UWG. While purchasing your own computer is not required, it is highly recommended. Students are expected to use a computer for their course work. You will need to be able to do research via the web, use word processing for class assignments, and use e-mail correspondence. These tasks will be things you do frequently, if not daily, to accomplish your class work at UWG.

Also, most professors now place their syllabi online (on their web page linked to the campus website) for students to view. Assignments, resource materials, and regular correspondence with classmates and instructors are available through e-mail and the Internet. In addition, many distance learning courses are available which use WebCT.

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Other recommendations for your computer:

  • A CD-ROM Drive
  • A USB Key Storage Device
  • Soundcard/Speakers
  • Internet Capability & Connection (*If you live in a residence hall and wish to use Resnet)
  • A Compatible Printer (An inkjet printer will work fine. A color printer, while nice, is not necessary.)
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Yes, if you live on Campus! On Campus, you may connect to UWG's own high speed ResNet. To connect, you'll need a compatible PC as well as:

  • A 10-baseT OR 10/100-baseT Ethernet card and its supplied drivers diskette
  • Category 5 Ethernet cable of appropriate length. NOTE: Telephone Cables WILL NOT work. Only use Ethernet Cable!
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We recommend:

  • Word Processing Software (I.e. Microsoft Word, Corel Word Perfect) UWG computer labs are equipped with Microsoft's Office Suite. If you already have Corel Suite or Star office, they are also acceptable.
  • Spreadsheets (I.e. Microsoft Excel).
  • Web Browser (I.e. Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox) UWG computer labs have both Mozilla Firefox and Internet Explorer. You may find that Internet Explorer is more compatible with certain online applications at UWG.
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Yes! UWG now participates in the Student Microsoft Campus Agreement which enables students to obtain free copies of the latest versions of specific Microsoft software. Microsoft Office and the latest operating system are typically available.

NOTICE: You will need to use your name@my.westga.edu email account to download software.

  1. Be sure your system meets the minimum requirements for the software you wish to obtain. (System requirements can be found here.)
  2. To download software from SRS:
    Access the guide
    Go to the SRS site for the software

You may install your own software or you may have a SITS technician perform the installation for you. You will be required to show you’re your ID and sign the necessary release forms. You also need to bring in your information from the SRS download. After installation you must activate your software.

SITS hours are:

  • Monday-Thursday: 9am-7pm
  • Friday: 9am-5pm

(Summer hours may vary)