Computer: You need access to a computer capable of running the most current software and web browsers. Anything that has been purchased in the past three years should be fine. As a general guideline, your computer must be running Windows XP, Vista or Mac OSX.

Some instructors require students to use supplementary textbook materials, such as a CD-ROM. Be sure to check with your instructor PRIOR to the course starting to make for additional hardware and software requirements.

Internet Access: You must have some type of Internet access to complete online courses. We suggest that you have a Satellite, DSL, or Cable connection or higher. Dial-up will work for some online courses, but may be problematic. If you rely on your employer's Internet connection, be aware that firewall restrictions may exist that prevent you from accessing all or part of your course, using our online tools.

Web Browser: For PC users, we require Internet Explorer 7.0 or later, or a newer version (at least 2.0 or above) of Firefox. For Mac users, we recommend using both Firefox or Safari 2.0 (comes with Mac OS) and later.

Additional Software or Plug-ins: Depending on your course and instructor, you may have to purchase software. This information may be listed on your course's description page as well as provided to you when you email your instructor once you've registered for your course.

Additionally, many instructors post lecture materials online in various file formats (typically PowerPoint, Word or PDF files). To open these files, you will need the appropriate software or software viewer plug-in. We recommend purchasing Microsoft Office 2007 (although 2003 is acceptable), which is available through most software retailers at an academic rate of $200. However, you can also download the free MS Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Adobe Reader PDF viewers. Links to these free downloads can be found on the Online College Plugin Check page.

For technical assistance, please fill out our support form. You can expect a response within 24 hours, M-F.

Note that the Online College Helpdesk will support issues related to using our online learning courses only. If your computer or internet connection is malfunctioning, please contact the appropriate support resource through your vendor.