Minimum Computer System Requirements
The following Guidelines represent the minimum computer system that is required for this program.
Minimum System Configuration
Recommended Laptop Configuration
Recommended Desktop Configuration
Operating System
Windows XP
Computer
Pentium III or higher
Pentium IV
RAM
128 MB Minimum; 256 MB recommended
512 MB
Hard drive
20 GB
40 GB
80 GB
CD-ROM drive
Yes
CD Writer / DVD Player Combo
CD Writer & DVD Player
Modem
56K, cable, or DSL
Sound card
Speakers
Yes, built-in
Mouse
Yes, or touchpad
Monitor
14” or larger
Printer
Ink jet or laser; Color or black & white
• For those who already own a computer system, this information should help determine if an upgrade of their current system is necessary.
• For those who need to purchase a new system, a state-of-the-art system that fits one’s budget is recommended. The projected lifespan of computer hardware is probably no longer than three years given the speed with which technology changes. Accordingly, a system that only meets the current minimum computer requirements may become outdated more quickly and may require hardware upgrades sooner than anticipated. Therefore, it is recommended that students purchase the best system they can afford with the hope that it will last throughout enrollment in the program. Please be aware that some of the lower-cost systems have limited upgrade capabilities. Also, note that the purchase price of a computer system can be added to financial aid requests.
Computer Software Requirements
Software Developer
Purpose
Microsoft Office XP or 2007
Microsoft Corporation
Word (word processing software)
PowerPoint (presentation software)
Excel (spreadsheet and statistical analysis software)
Norton Antivirus 2008
Symantec Corporation
Protection against computer viruses, worms, etc.
PKZIP for Windows or
WinZip
PKWare, Inc.
WinZip Computing
File compression/extraction and archiving (storage) software. Allows you to send multiple documents as a single file attachment. Decreases size of most files for faster e-mail transmission
Adobe Acrobat Reader 7.0
Adobe Systems
For reading PDF documents on- and offline. This is a free download.
Web Browser and e-mail software
Browser: Access the Internet , course management software, and university e-mail.
E-mail software: access personal e-mail account.
Internet Access
Recommended
Web browser
Internet Explorer 7.0 or 8.0
Firefox 3.5
Internet service provider
Internet access
Dial-up, cable or DSL modem
E-mail address
Once enrolled in a degree program, students will be provided with a University e-mail address that must be used for all school-related communication outside of the course environment.