Comparable Schools'
Computers Grades:
Quick Stats
Wireless Network?
Yes - Campus-wide
Computer Labs
75 - total, with free-standing kiosks in every building
24-Hour Labs?
Yes - Engineering Center
College Prowler Take
During the first few weeks of freshman year, unsettled students discover that in times of incurable nostalgia, CU’s Ethernet connection is their friend. Thus, downloading music becomes a hobby, Web diction becomes standard, and the once computer inept develop into the next generation of the computer savvy. Meanwhile, writing assignments tend to accumulate; therefore, having to write more than one paper at a time is not unusual. For these reasons, it is best to come to school prepared, and that means with your own computer. Yet, if such an investment is simply not possible, CU offers about 75 computer labs scattered throughout almost every building on campus, plus several free-standing computer kiosks. Problems seem to only arise during midterms and finals week, when procrastinators printing last-minute papers fill the labs.
Activating your personal accounts is the necessary first step to tap into CU’s computing resources. For access, you need an IdentiKey and a Web account. These accounts are created for incoming students, but can also be activated through the Personal Look-Up Services (PLUS) Web site. To do so, you will need your ID number and PIN. This IdentiKey is, in all essence, the key to computing at CU, since it is what allows you to log into the facilities within the ITS computer labs.
Students Speak Out
Love your school more than free food? Hate your school more than term papers?
Somewhere in between? Show the world what YOU think of YOUR school:
Anonymous says:  |
I definitely recommend bringing a...
I definitely recommend bringing a computer. Sometimes you will be up late at night writing papers, and it’s just easier to store data on your own computer. |
Anonymous says:  |
The computer network on campus...
The computer network on campus works great, but it is crowded in most places a lot of the time. It’s nice having your own computer as a freshman because you get a free high-speed connection in the dorms. Plus, getting used to working in computer labs can take time. |
Anonymous says:  |
Computer labs in the library are...
Computer labs in the library are usually crowded, but other labs tend to be less crowded (like in the geography building). It’s worthwhile to bring your own computer. |
Anonymous says:  |
There are quite a few labs...
There are quite a few labs scattered around campus with high-speed Internet connections. The only problem is trying to get a spot in one when it’s close to finals—what a nightmare! |
Anonymous says:  |
I brought my own computer, and it...
I brought my own computer, and it was nice not to worry about finding one to use. Computers were available in my dorm, but computers at the library are usually pretty crowded. |
Facts
Discounted Software
Discounted software and hardware is available through Information Technology Services at www.colorado.edu/its/hardwaresoftware.
Charged to Print?
Yes - 10 cents for the first side of a black and white page and 9 cents for the second side of that page; 50 cents for color
Did You Know?
Though the University strongly advises students to bring a computer with them to campus, financial aid is available to purchase a computer. Once students are deemed eligible, they can also apply to the campus computer-lending program offered through the University. For more information, contact the Office of Financial Aid at (303) 492-5091.
Most Recent Contributing Author

Name: Sara K. Jordan
Hometown: Littleton, CO
Major: International Affairs
Sara comes from a long line of journalists. Her grandfather was asked to be an anchorman for CBS, but he turned it down. His replacement was Walter Cronkite.
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.