One important factor to consider is the operating system, especially as you mention programs required for the course. (You could always ask the Uni for advice).
A fair few business oriented software programs are not compatible with Vista, ( I know this from trying to run some of the stuff my company uses), in which case XP professional would be a good idea.
For a good robust laptop, I've always gone with a Toshiba tecra. They are certainly robust, and can take a fair few knocks.
http://uk.computers.toshiba-europe.c...RIES_ID=129014