Computer Requirements
With one of the most sophisticated computing environments in the country, Virginia Tech is very active in the development of modern computing technology. For example, all incoming students at Virginia Tech are required to own a computer, and dorms are hardwired for access to the world wide web, libraries, and the Blacksburg Electronic Village. Additionally, Virginia Tech is a pioneer in the development of internet based instruction. Currently, statistics majors are required to have state-of -the-art desktop personal computers.
Statistics by its nature is a computationally intensive discipline. The development of modern computers has freed the statistician from the tedium of manual calculations and transformed the statistician's role into an exciting, dynamic, decision-making one. Most courses in statistics now make intensive use of the computer so the students can concentrate on concepts and interpretation, and deal with more complex, interesting, and realistic problems. Students will find their personal computers of great benefit not only in their statistics courses, but in virtually every course they take at Virginia Tech. Just as important, when they join the work force after completing their education, their enhanced computer skills will give them a competitive advantage in their careers and in their personal lives as well.
Current information about the required computer hardware and software can be obtained from the University's page on computer requirements.
The Statistical, Mathematical, and Computer Language software below can be obtained on campus at greatly reduced educational prices. Software is best purchased when needed for specific classes, to ensure having the latest version, and should be considered as part of the textbook budget.
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MATHEMATICA
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MINITAB
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C
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SAS
- S-Plus