Technical Requirements for Online Programs

Hardware and Software Requirements

There are minimum hardware and software requirements for the online programs and minimum technology skills required. Participants need their own computers (Windows or Mac), meeting the following specific hardware and software requirements; and Internet access on a high-speed connection such as DSL, cable or faster.

• The Internet Service Provider (ISP) must be reliable and provide live technical support.
• Antivirus software such as Symantec Norton Anti-Virus, McAfee or a comparable anti-virus package also is required.
• Accessible and working Assistive Technology (AT) devices set up, if applicable.

Minimum Technical Requirements

Important note for MAC users: In the event a textbook includes supplemental materials on disk that are supported by Windows OS only, access to a PC may be necessary. Mac users also have the option to run Windows on a Mac natively with Boot Camp (recommended), or virtually with applications such as Parallels, or VMware Fusion.

• High-speed, reliable Internet connection (e.g. Cable or DSL; Internet Provider should have live customer support)
• Microsoft Windows operating system (10 or newer) or Mac OS X operating system (Version 11 or newer)
• Microsoft Office 2019 or newer
• Current versions of two supported web browsers:
  • Windows: Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox
  • Mac: Safari, Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox
• Most current version of Acrobat Reader
• Up-to-date anti-virus software:
   
  • Windows 10 include the built-in anti-virus software Windows Defender
  • Sophos is recommended for Mac OS X
• 1.6 GHz or faster multi-core processor (or 2.0 GHz or faster single-core processor)
• 4 GB RAM for Mac OS X
• 8 GB RAM for Windows
• DVD-ROM drive (may be needed for some textbook materials)
• USB webcam (Logitech recommended) or built-in webcam
• USB headset and microphone (Logitech recommended)
• Accessible USB ports to plug in USB flash drive, webcam, headset, etc.
• Scanner or other means of creating multiple-page files from hard-copy documents
• All students must have a back-up plan, in case their usual computer becomes unavailable for a period of time.

Minimum Required Computer Skills

Because of the nature of an online program, participants must have a least a basic level of knowledge of, and the ability to use, common computer programs including email, word processing and Microsoft Excel. Staff from The Tseng College can initially orient participants to use the online learning management system (LMS), Canvas, for the course work in the program. However, participants must understand that there is an expectation that they have acquired at least basic computer skills prior to starting online programs.

Students should at least have:

• An ability to create, send and receive emails with or without attachments
• An ability to create, send and receive documents in a variety of standard formats like Word, pdf, html, etc.
• An ability to access and review a variety of pdf's
• An ability to review online resources such as internet websites, online articles and journals
• Students using or needing assistive technology devices should be sure they acquire the latest updates and software prior to the beginning of the program.