Computer requirements

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Computer skills you'll need

You will need to have certain computer skills to be successful as a distance student. When you take an online course, you should be able to perform the following technical skills:

• Use a word processing program such as Microsoft Word or WordPerfect to create, format, and modify documents
• Create, send (with an attachment), reply and save e-mail
• Download and install a computer program or plug-in
• Use a web browser such as Microsoft Internet Explorer, Netscape Navigator, AOL to navigate a web site
• Access the Internet and use a search engine such as Google or AltaVista
• Post messages to online discussion lists
• Be familiar with and comply with standard online etiquette

Computer requirements

Distance education courses through the Division of Graduate & Professional Studies and through the Department of Nursing are available online using WebCT, an integrated and flexible online learning system. Each online course provides some or all of the following:

• Instructor's notes and tips, PowerPoint presentations, interactive exercises, audio mini-lectures
• Resources tailored to the individual course
• Online discussion
• Ability for you to study wherever you reside, at times most convenient for you.

All online courses require access to a computer with an Internet connection, preferably a broadband connection. (Some courses are available in a text format for students with limited Internet access. Interested students should contact the admissions office for more information.)

Recommended computer configuration:

(A lesser configuration may result in technical problems and sub-par performance.)
• Pentium III 500-Mhz (or higher);
• Windows XP (or later) or Mac OS X v.10.3 (or later);
• 512 MB of Random Access Memory;
• 510 MB of free disk storage space;
• Display: 1024x768 or higher resolution;
• Microsoft ® Internet Explorer 6.0 (or later, Java enabled)
• 48X or faster CD-ROM drive;
• Broadband Internet connection;
• Microsoft ® Office Suite 2002 or later;
• Anti-virus software;
• Computer sound card and speakers or headphones.

Planning to access your course from your workplace?

Check with your employer's Information Systems department to see if the Internet security protocol used will allow you to log in properly.

Anti-Virus Information

1. Buy Norton AntiVirus. This is a college standard.
2. Keep your virus protection up to date.
3. Schedule a weekly scan of your system.
4. If you get an attachment in your e-mail that you're a little unsure of, scan it with your virus protection program BEFORE attempting to open.
5. Set your virus protection program to automatically update, that way you won't forget to update it yourself.
6. Scan files for viruses BEFORE downloading. This includes Mp3s and pictures.
7. Use common sense when surfing the Internet. ALWAYS scan a file before downloading it.
8. Be aware that all e-mail and attachments received/sent through the SJC server are scanned by the Norton Anti-Virus program. This does not extend beyond SJC e-mail functions.
9. Also be aware that no virus protection program is 100% accurate. Caution is your best protocol.

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