Technology Requirements

Computers located in on-campus computer labs or libraries cannot be used as the primary computer resource for taking online classes. You will need this reasonably small suite of hardware and software in your home office:

Required Hardware

• Computer: A personal computer with Windows XP or higher, or a MacIntosh with OS X.
• Sound: A sound card with speakers or headphones.
• Monitor: A VGA (or equivalent) or better monitor.

Strongly recommended hardware

• Printer connected to the computer
• CD-ROM drive
• Microphone

Internet Connectivity

Internet access. For a dial-up connection, at least a 56k modem is recommended. Slower dial-up connections will affect course performance. High speed Internet connectivity (cable or DSL) is strongly recommended.

Required Software

• Microsoft Office XP or beyond, including: Word, Excel, PowerPoint
• Web Browser: A JavaScript enabled Web browser. These include Netscape 7.1, Internet Explorer 6.0 or newer versions of either. (Note: Internet Service Providers [ISP] with proprietary browsers, such as Prodigy or some versions of AOL, may have difficulty with JavaScript-based activities. Contact the ISP to determine if the browser will work with JavaScript.)
• Virus protection software