I'm going to major in Computer Science, what computer should I get?

I've taken computer science courses, and it's safe to say a basic to mid-range computer is more than up to the tasks of your curriculum most likely. You'd only ever need a high-end computer if you were developing 3D games or doing intense video editing, which most likely you'll mainly being editing and creating documents, surfing the internet, and programming.

Both Windows and Mac would work in this situation, but Windows still has a wider compatibility range than Mac (and your school probably focuses on Windows anyways). I had a Macbook Air while taking those courses, and the compiler I had to use was only compatible with Windows, so I installed Windows via bootcamp instead of figuring out a solution.

And as far as form factor goes, either a desktop or laptop would work. Once again, you'll probably only need a basic to mid-range computer, so a laptop would be the way to go here. And if you need a bigger screen, external monitors are available for your laptop.

My advice, get a laptop with a fairly decent processor (i.e. Intel i5) and make sure to get one with a decent amount of RAM (4gb or more). Windows or Mac would work, but if you get the Mac, I would put Windows on there as well for the time being. Also, a good idea would be to contact the Computer Science department at your college to see what they think.

Good luck to you!

I would suggest your basic everyday computer is going to be fine. I was a CS major years ago and my standard 4gb ram intel core 2 duo laptop compiled java perfectly fine.

Contact the CS department at the school you are going to attend. They could better answer your question than a bunch of strangers.