Technical Requirements for Online Programs

Students in online programs need regular access to their own Windows or Mac laptop or desktop computer, reliable broadband Internet service, and the hardware and software needed to participate in coursework, submit assignments, access course materials, and attend online meetings. A smartphone or tablet may be useful as a supplemental device, but it should not be relied upon as a student's primary device unless specifically approved by the program.

• Internet service must be reliable enough to support web-based coursework and live video conferencing.
• Students should keep their operating system, web browsers, security updates, and required applications current.
• Students who use assistive technology should ensure that their devices, software, and updates are installed and working before the program begins.
• Some programs or courses may require additional hardware, software, or operating-system compatibility. Program-specific requirements take precedence over these general requirements.

Important Note for Mac Users

Some courses may require software that is available only for Windows. In those cases, access to a Windows PC may be required. Virtualization software, such as Parallels Desktop or VMware Fusion, may allow some Windows applications to run on a Mac; however, compatibility can vary, particularly on Apple silicon Macs running Windows 11 on Arm. Students who expect to use specialized Windows-only software should confirm compatibility with their program before purchasing a computer or relying on virtualization.

Because online programs rely heavily on technology, students are expected to have basic computer skills before beginning their program. Tseng College staff can provide initial orientation to Canvas and other program tools, but students should already be comfortable performing common computer and Internet tasks.

Students should be able to:

• Create, send, receive, organize, and reply to email messages, including messages with attachments.
• Create, edit, save, and share documents using common formats such as Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, PDF, and HTML.
• Open, review, complete, save, and print PDF documents.
• Use Canvas or another web-based learning management system to access course content, submit assignments, participate in discussions, and review feedback.
• Participate in Zoom or other video-conferencing sessions, including using a camera, microphone, chat, and screen sharing when required.
• Upload and download files and locate downloaded or saved files on a computer.
• Use cloud storage and file-sharing services when required for coursework.
• Install or update approved applications and web browsers when necessary.
• Convert or save documents as PDF files.
• Use basic spreadsheet functions in Microsoft Excel.
• Navigate websites and use online resources such as scholarly articles, journals, library resources, and other research materials.
• Manage common browser functions, including tabs, downloads, pop-up permissions, and cookies when required for coursework.
• Perform basic troubleshooting, such as restarting an application or computer, checking an Internet connection, verifying audio/video settings, and updating a browser.

Students who use assistive technology should install and test required updates, software, and devices before the beginning of the program.

Phone: (818) 677-6410
Email: techsupport@csundlsg.com

Phone assistance is available Monday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time. Email and support tickets may be submitted 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. Messages received after office hours will be answered on the next business day during office hours.

Hours