Here’s a FAQ from their computer requirements:
http://journalism.missouri.edu/undergraduate/computer-requirements.html
Q. What brand or model should I buy?
A. The faculty has designated Apple Computer as its preferred provider for two primary reasons: (1) Apple’s OS X operating system is based on Unix, which makes these computers far less susceptible to viruses than other computers. Viruses are a serious problem on university campuses. (2) Apple iBook and PowerBook computers come bundled with iLife, a suite of applications ideal for learning the basics of photo editing, and audio and video editing. We’ll use those programs in several classes. Incoming students will receive information on recommended models and pricing in February of each year.
Q. What if I prefer a Windows-based machine?
A. That’s an option, but it’s one we do not recommend unless you plan to make a career of computer-assisted reporting. By the time you purchase photo, audio and video software for a PC, you probably will have spent more than you would if buying a comparable Apple Computer. Buy a PC if you prefer to do so, but make sure it is wireless and has Microsoft Office. Almost 100 percent of last year’s freshmen chose Apple computers.
Hey! :-)
Thanks - I didn't have time to research it.
(from the MU J-School FAQ)
“Q. What if I prefer a Windows-based machine?
A. That’s an option, but it’s one we do not recommend unless you plan
to make a career of computer-assisted reporting.”
In the year 2007?
Some journalists are NOT using computers in their reporting?????
Maybe journalism is like the photography field.
I heard an interview with some fellow that does seminars on digital
photography and he’s run his own studio for years.
He told a caller asking about photography schools for her child.
“Whatever you do, don’t send them to Columbia U, where they’ll make
the kid do nothing but film cameras. Every year I turn away potential
interns and employees from places like that because I need someone
good with digital cameras and computers.”
Macs are great machines. And I can see the virus-avoidance issue
as a great concern.
But I think whoever wrote the FAQ needs to proofread it while thinking
what reasonable implications can be drawn from the text.