Computer Requirements

Last Updated: 7 Jan 2012

Your success is our goal. Since this program takes place entirely online, we require that you have access to a reliable, high-speed Internet connection, a high-quality computer and possess the skills to use them. If you have any doubts about your skills, we encourage you to speak with your advisor. We may also provide free basic skills workshops in the near future, so stay tuned.

Minimal computer skills include the following:

Ability to use a mouse (click, double click, block, drag and drop)
Ability to open, save and rename files
Ability to use a web browser and e-mail
Ability to navigate the Internet and World Wide Web
Ability to open sophisticated web pages that utilize Java/JavaScript programming or browser plug-ins
Ability to download and install plug-ins and required software (e.g. Adobe Acrobat Reader, anti-spyware software, Flash, iTunes, etc.)

Minimum Computer Requirements

All Platforms

Internet account (high-speed Cable or DSL recommended)
Sound card and speakers
1 Gb video card set at 1024 x 768 resolution or higher
Microsoft Internet Explorer 7.0, Firefox 6, or Safari 4.0
(current versions as of Jan 2012 = 9.0 for IE, 9.0 for FF and 5.1 for Safari)
Anti-Virus Software (MU students may download for free McAfee 8.7 for PCs from My.Mansfield — login with your Desire2Learn login and password)
Anti-Spyware software (see information in an announcement from 2005)
Free Plug-ins: Adobe Acrobat Reader, Flash Player, iTunes (or RealPlayer)

Windows

Any Intel or AMD processor that can efficiently run Windows Vista or higher
1 Gb of RAM (recommend at least 2 Gb for Windows 7)
Windows Vista or Windows 7 (anything running XP or lower indicates obsolete hardware)
Microsoft Office Standard Edition, version 2003 or higher (2010/2011 latest)

Note: For Microsoft Office (both PC and Mac versions), students have an incredible deal through Microsoft's Microsoft Student Store. While the regular academic price for Office Home and Student edition is about $150, college students can download the Professional Academic version (retails at $499.99) for the low price of $99.95.

Mac