Minimum Computer System Requirements
The following guidelines represent the minimum computer system that is required for this program.
56K fax/modem, cable modem, DSL modem
• For those who already own a computer system, this information should help determine if an upgrade 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 Accordingly, a system that only meets the current minimum computer requirements may become outdated more quickly and may require hardware upgrades sooner than anticipated.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
Microsoft Corporation http://www.microsoft.com http://www.microsoft.com/office/ (updates on Office programs)
Word (word processing software) PowerPoint (presentation software) Excel (spreadsheet software)
Norton Antivirus 2008
Symantec Corporation http://www.symantec.com
Protects your system from computer viruses.
PPKZip for Windows v. 2.70 or later
PKWare, Inc. http://www.pkware.com
File compression/extraction and storage (archival) software. Allows you to send multiple documents as a single file attachment. Also, decreases document size through file compression.
Microsoft Internet Explorer v. 6.0 or 7.0
Microsoft Corporation http://www.microsoft.com
Necessary for accessing D2L. Make sure that all of the security updates available at the Microsoft site are installed.
Adobe Acrobat Reader V 8.0 or higher (free download)
Adobe Systems http://www.adobe.com
For reading PDF documents on and offline
Windows XP
Computer operating system software
Internet Access
An internet service provider (ISP) that allows use of Microsoft Internet Explorer is required.