i honestly do not think that a student actually needs a laptop, unless u do not live in ur own house, in which case pc are not accessible for u, n u might want a laptop for internet surfing n other entertainment
for this course, most of the study material are given by ur lecturer/college n this course doesn't hav a assignment to attend to, so, i dont think u need a laptop at all
unless u r rich n can afford it, y not....but for a poor student like me, laptop is a luxury i dont need at all, since i live at home n has a pc to use everyday

Speaking of laptop, although not compulsory in college or uni but when you start working especially under professional firm, you already need to be familiar and comfortable with using laptop. Dont expect employers or clients to sit down there and looking at you typing letters one by one. Commercial companies will require dekstop instead.