Rolling out new devices in a university setting can be a logistical challenge. Between faculty, researchers, and students, every department has different needs and IT teams are expected to deliver perfectly configured devices without disrupting the academic calendar.
Traditionally, this meant hours of hands-on setup, imaging, and troubleshooting before a Mac could be handed over. Today, Apple’s deployment tools mean you can go from delivery to ready in minutes, without even opening the box before it reaches the user.
By combining Apple’s built-in deployment framework with the right Mobile Device Management (MDM) solution, universities can give every user a consistent, secure experience while saving IT time for more strategic projects.
Built-In Deployment Advantages
- Automated Device Enrolment (ADE) Formerly known as DEP, ADE lets Macs automatically enrol into your MDM when first powered on and connected to the internet - no manual imaging, no USB sticks, no scripts.
- Apple School Manager (ASM) Integrates directly with your MDM to assign devices to users, push apps, apply settings, and even pre-load Wi-Fi credentials before the Mac leaves IT’s hands.
- Zero-Touch Setup Once a Mac is in ASM and assigned to MDM, the entire configuration process from security policies to app installs happens automatically during setup.
Integration with University Workflows
Apple’s deployment tools work seamlessly with existing campus infrastructure:
- Connect to directory services like Microsoft Entra ID or Google Workspace for account provisioning.
- Push university-standard software, from productivity suites to specialist research tools, via MDM.
- Apply security baselines automatically, ensuring encryption, password complexity, and firewall settings are in place from day one.
With features like Platform Single Sign-On, users can log in once and immediately access email, shared drives, and learning platforms without juggling multiple passwords.
Reducing IT Workload
Zero-touch deployment isn’t just fast it’s repeatable. Instead of spending hours configuring individual devices, IT teams can:
- Define a single “gold standard” configuration in MDM.
- Apply it to hundreds of devices at once.
- Free up staff to focus on training, support, and innovation rather than manual builds.
One university we worked with prepped over 400 Macs for the start of term in under a week, fully configured and ready to hand out without a single device coming back for rework.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Renew MDM & ASM Tokens Annually – Ensure automated enrolment workflows remain active.
- Test New macOS Versions Early – Use Apple Seed for IT to validate workflows and compatibility before term starts.
- Plan for Departmental Variations – Keep core configurations standard but use MDM “smart groups” for departmental apps and settings.
- Leverage Platform SSO – Minimise password fatigue and streamline logins.
- Document the Process – Ensure any IT staff member can run the deployment playbook confidently.
Final thoughts
Modern Mac deployment isn’t just easier — it’s a competitive advantage for university IT teams. By using Apple School Manager, Automated Device Enrolment, and MDM together, you can give every user a secure, consistent, and ready-to-use Mac without draining your team’s time.
Register for our upcoming webinar to see how to implement a fully zero-touch Mac deployment that scales to your university’s needs.