To help ensure success, students should be proficient using e-mail, the Internet, and common desktop productivity software. During the course of the program, requirements (either hardware or software) may change from the original technology recommendation. Students should consult the software/hardware requirements within the program or with the faculty member or Student Support Team for any technology recommendations that may have changed since the original recommendation mentioned below or within the program of study.  Below are some initial recommendations.  Please note that these recommendations and requirements may change as technology changes and may also vary from course to course.  Also please note that specific programs of study may have other specific requirements:

Recommended Setup

  • Internet access required; 6-10 Mbps speed or higher recommended; Broadband is recommended as students with dial-up may experience degraded performance
  • Windows Vista/7 or Mac OS X with virtualization software (like Parallels with Windows OS)
  • 2GB of RAM minimum
  • 40GB hard drive
  • speakers, and headphone connected to the computer
  • Inkjet or laser printer
  • Scanner or Scanning Application for mobile devices
  • Portable media (thumb drive)

Software Requirements

  • Recommended Web browser—current version of Chrome
  • Other Web browsers (Internet Explorer ver. 9.0 or higher or Firefox’s current and next most recent releases).
  • Microsoft Office
  • Adobe Reader ver. 10.1 or higher
  • Adobe Flash Player ver. 11.7 or higher
  • Apple QuickTime ver. 7.7 or higher
  • Windows Media Player ver. 11 or higher
  • Antivirus software (e.g., McAfee or Norton) installed, running, and kept current by promptly installing the upgrades and patches made available by the software manufacturer

Tablet/Laptop Recommendation

Students enrolled in programs that require participation in academic residencies are encouraged to use a laptop or tablet computer for their work.  Some coursework may not be fully compatible with use of a tablet or mobile device; therefore, it is recommended that students have a desktop/laptop available if needed.  

Additional Technology Requirements

Some programs may require additional technology requirements that are not mentioned above. Please refer to the program course(s) syllabi or course materials list in the UOnline Support Center to review any special technology requirements for the program of study.