The School of Arts and Sciences (SAS) Computer Replacement Cycle (CRC) provides a planned, school-funded, consistent, equitable, and sustainable process for replacing the primary computers used by eligible SAS faculty and staff. The program is designed to keep supported equipment current, make purchasing and deployment more predictable, use school funds equitably, maintain an accurate inventory of university-owned devices, and reduce the administrative burden associated with managing aging equipment. SAS IT administers the program in consultation with school leadership and determines eligibility, replacement schedules, inventory records, purchasing, deployment, reuse, and retirement of returned equipment.
The CRC covers one designated primary computer and one designated primary monitor for each eligible faculty member or staff position. Computer replacements are planned on a five-year cycle; primary monitors are planned on a ten-year cycle. These are planning intervals rather than promises of replacement on a particular date. The program will roll out in phases, beginning with administrative staff. Faculty replacements will follow once the inventory, deployment, and migration processes are operating effectively.
Additional details about the Computer Replacement Cycle, including eligibility requirements, replacement schedules, equipment management practices, and exception procedures, are available in the following documents:
Computer Replacement Cycle Operational Details for Faculty and Staff
Computer Replacement Cycle New System Flyer
Staff Computer Selection Guide
Administrative Cloud Storage Guide
Standard Computer Configurations for 2026-2027 Cycle
Eligible participants may select from one of four standard computer configurations or receive a subsidy to purchase a different system. These configurations have been selected to meet the needs of most faculty and staff while maintaining consistency, supportability, security, and long-term sustainability.
A standard desktop deployment includes the computer and, when due for replacement, the primary monitor, keyboard, mouse, and webcam as applicable.
A standard laptop deployment includes the laptop, an eligible external monitor, keyboard and mouse, and a carrying case. The standard laptop monitor has an integrated USB-C hub that can serve as the office docking connection. Peripherals may also be replaced as needed, but they do not themselves trigger a computer replacement.
Note: System configurations are subject to change at any time to meet program requirements and adjust to changes in supply and pricing.
Windows Desktop
The recommended desktop option for most staff members whose work is primarily performed from a single office location.
Configuration
- Dell Pro Slim desktop
- Intel Core Ultra 5 235 processor
- 16 GB memory
- 512 GB solid-state drive
- 24-inch monitor
- Keyboard, mouse, and webcam
The Windows desktop provides a reliable and supportable platform for most Rutgers administrative and academic work while offering the simplest workstation setup.
Windows Laptop
Recommended for individuals who regularly need to use the same computer in multiple locations.
Configuration
- Dell Pro 14 Plus laptop
- Intel Core Ultra 5 235U processor
- 16 GB memory
- 512 GB solid-state drive
- 14-inch display
- 24-inch USB-C docking monitor
- Keyboard and mouse
- Carrying case
Windows laptops provide a portable windows-based computer while supporting a complete office setup through the included docking monitor. The Windows laptop provides flexibility for users who regularly work in multiple locations while maintaining compatibility with the broadest range of Rutgers-supported applications.
Mac Desktop
Recommended for users who already use macOS and whose required software is fully compatible with Apple devices.
Configuration
- Apple Mac mini
- Apple M6 processor
- 16 GB memory
- 256 GB solid-state drive
- 24-inch monitor
- Webcam, wireless keyboard and mouse
Mac Laptop
Designed for users who require both macOS and mobility.
Configuration
- Apple MacBook Air (13-inch)
- Apple M5 processor
- 16 GB memory
- 512 GB solid-state drive
- 24-inch USB-C docking monitor
- Wireless keyboard and mouse
- Carrying case
Mac laptops provide a portable Apple-based workstation while supporting a complete office setup through the included docking monitor.
Non-Standard Computer Option
Individuals whose requirements cannot be met by one of the standard configurations may request a non-standard computer. Non-standard systems remain subject to SAS IT supportability, security, inventory, management, and software compatibility requirements. Departments or other approved funding sources are responsible for costs above the program contribution. Computers purchased with a CRC subsidy become part of the Computer Replacement Cycle, remain Rutgers University property, and must be returned when replaced.
Subsidy Amount
For the current replacement cycle, SAS will provide a subsidy of $799 toward an approved non-standard computer purchase. The subsidy applies only to the computer purchase itself and does not apply to separately selected monitors or accessories. Additional costs associated with a non-standard system must be funded through departmental or other approved sources.
Need Help Choosing?
Most faculty and staff will find that one of the four standard configurations adequately meets their needs. The Staff Computer Selection Guide provides additional information about:
- Choosing between Windows and macOS
- Choosing between a desktop and laptop
- Software compatibility considerations
- Work-from-home and mobility requirements
- Situations that may warrant a non-standard computer
If you are uncertain which option best supports your work, please review the Staff Computer Selection Guide or contact SAS IT for assistance. Staff computer choices must support the applications needed for the position. A Mac will not be approved for a staff position if required applications are not supported on macOS, and staff who currently use Windows cannot switch to a Mac solely based on preference without supervisor discussion and SAS IT confirmation that the system will meet the position’s job requirements.
Questions?
For questions regarding eligibility, configuration options, replacement schedules, or special requirements, please contact SAS IT by submitting a ticket or emailing .