HARDWARE REQUIREMENTS


Personal Computer

In order to access online course content, you will need a personal computer.  It is preferable that you have your own computer at home.  If not, it should be a computer that is convenient for you to access, since you will have to be online and in your class at least 3 - 4 times per week.  It is your responsibility to have a backup plan in case your technology fails.


Computer system recommendations

  • Microsoft Windows 10 or MAC OS 10.11 or higher
  • 8 GB RAM or more recommended
  • Sound card and speakers
  • Functioning microphone/headset (or webcam)


High Speed Internet

Connection speeds will affect the rate and amount of information accessed over the internet.  If you connect to the internet over a dial-up connection, the download rate will be significantly slower than over a broadband connection.  Slow internet speeds may make access to certain parts of courses significantly harder.


For streaming video, we recommend at least 3Mb/s of broadband internet, but audio and video will perform better over a faster connection.  If courses include accessing video or audio files (or downloading other files) there may be several seconds to several minutes delay before you can view the materials on slower internet connections.



SOFTWARE REQUIREMENTS


Minimum Requirements

When purchasing a computer, it is important to consider the compatibility and ease of use with other computers.  Therefore, students should be aware of the software applications considered standard.


Standard computer software

  • Microsoft Office 2016 or newer
  • Adobe Acrobat Reader (latest version)
  • Java may be required for some courses (latest version)
  • Adobe Flash is no longer supported, as of January 1, 2021


Browsers

Software apps, such as Blackboard, support most primary browser for faculty and students to access their courses.  We recommend discontinuing the use of Internet Explorer and the first generation of Microsoft Edge.


Browsers for PC or Mac


Compatibility Checks