University of California - Santa Barbara - Computers

Quick Stats

College Prowler Take

UCSB campus computers are regularly updated, and the University has Macs and PCs with all the latest software and several printing options in labs across the campus. It’s pretty easy to stop into a lab, either associated with your department or an open-access lab—Kerr Hall or Phelps Hall have the two biggest—to check your e-mail or print out a paper. Labs are a bit hidden on campus, though, so make to pay attention during your campus tour!

Even though the University has computer labs scattered around campus, the dorms all have Ethernet connections, so bring your own computer if you can. Students agree that relying on the campus computers is definitely feasible, but labs are not always accessible or open all night and can be crowded during peak study weeks. Compared to some other universities, UCSB does not have a sparkling, new computer everywhere you look, but you can find one to use if you need to. Most people bring their own computer, and spend hours a day Facebooking with friends, writing papers, doing Internet research for classes, and checking e-mail very easy. It’s very convenient to these things at home instead of in a lab every day, especially since no one will notice if you work in your underwear with cheese-curl crumbs all over your shirt.

Free Profile Tools

Do I Stand A Chance?

Calculate YOUR chances of admission at every school CP covers!

__%

Personality Match

Calculate YOUR personality match with every school CP covers!

__%

What'll It Cost Me?

Estimate your out-of-pocket costs at every school CP covers!

$__,___

Students Speak Out

Anonymous says:

You can access computers almost... You can access computers almost anywhere and get online. I would say that the campus is well-connected—not just in the labs but also in the offices, University Center, and the library. 12345 Computers Report

Anonymous says:

Computer labs are around and... Computer labs are around and usually available; however, you will want to bring one because they close early. It’s much easier to have your own. 12345 Computers Report

Anonymous says:

On campus, the computer network is... On campus, the computer network is awesome. We have 20 megabytes of bandwidth for 1,800 students. It’s very fast—faster than DSL or cable. Everyone brings their own computer. It’s not necessary, but it is convenient. There are computer labs in each dorm. I didn’t bring one originally. I got a computer loan because I was a little low on cash. 12345 Computers Report

Anonymous says:

I would definitely bring my own... I would definitely bring my own computer. There are labs here, but the hours are weird sometimes. It’s better to have a laptop. 12345 Computers Report

Anonymous says:

One of the questions I had before... One of the questions I had before college was whether I should buy a laptop or a desktop. Although either type is fine, I really appreciate my laptop. Considering I moved every year of college, went home for breaks, and studied abroad, the flexibility and simple packing of my laptop was really nice. And taking my laptop to the coffee shop to study was an added benefit. 12345 Computers Report

Facts

Did You Know?

Check with your department about the computer labs and privileges that are open to you through your major.

Most Recent Contributing Author

Name: Michael Cooper
Hometown: Danville, CA
Major: Sociology/Sports Management minor

Michael was on Bob Barker's sixth-to-last Price is Right show and won a trampoline.

Contributing Author Internship

College Prowler is actively seeking talented students to be "Contributing Authors," and assist with updating the College Prowler guide to their school. This is a great opportunity for a student to gain internship experience, be a part of a nationally recognized company, gain tremendous exposure, utilize new media techniques, and share advice with high school students about what life is really like at your college. Read more about the internship.