I teach at a Jr. College here and they offer computers and software at a special prices for students and faculty.  The software prices are unbelievably low.  The box usually says something like "Student Edition", but it's always the full version and can be 1/4 or 1/3 the regular price.  It's certainly something worth looking into.  Also, if the school doesn't stock what you're looking for they will order it for you.
Lewis Emerson

                  Visit our website regularly for FAQs,
               articles, how-to's, tech tips and much more
                          http://freepctech.com