School -> Explore -> Tech Requirements

Technical Requirements

To participate effectively in the online school, you will need the following.

Computer

Minimum system requirements are listed below for Macs and PCs. However, some courses have more advanced system requirements. Extra requirements for each course are listed in the course catalog.

Minimum PC system requirements:

  • Windows XP, Vista or 7
  • 1GB of RAM or more
  • Color monitor with at least 800x600 screen resolution, 1024x768 recommended
  • At least 500 MB of free disc space for downloads and plug-ins
  • Windows sound card, preferably with Direct-X or ASIO drivers
  • Speakers or headphones
  • Internal or external microphone

Minimum Macintosh system requirements

  • Mac OS 10.5 and above
  • Intel Mac
  • 1GB of RAM or more
  • Color monitor with at least 800x600 screen resolution, 1024x768 recommended
  • At least 500 MB of free disc space for downloads and plug-ins
  • Soundcard
  • Speakers or headphones
  • Internal or external microphone

Web Browser

The school supports all of the following web browsers:

  • Microsoft Internet Explorer 8 or 9 for PC
  • Firefox 5 for PC
  • Firefox 5 for Macintosh
  • Safari 5 for PC
  • Safari 5 for Macintosh

Software

In addition to a web browser, all online courses require up to date versions of the following free applications. Please check our software downloads page to find out where to get them.

  • Adobe Acrobat Reader
  • Adobe Flash Player
  • Apple Quicktime Player

Computer Skills

Taking an online course uses the same skills as surfing the Web. You should know how to log onto your Internet Service, use your Web browser, use a word processing program, send and receive e-mail and file attachments, and download and install software or other files.

Course Specific Requirements

Some courses have additional software and hardware requirements, depending on the third-party hardware and software needed for the course. Extra requirements for each course are listed in the course catalog. The system requirements vary depending on the demands of each third-party product. Although we strive to assist our students in the best way possible we can not be held responsible for course hardware and/or software purchases that is found to be unsatisfactory, insufficient, defective, misused, or incompatible with current system setups. We highly recommend that you consult with the individual manufacturers of these products for the most current and accurate information possible.