Computer Requirements

Technology plays a key role in learning at University of Phoenix. As one of our students, you will use a computer to complete assignments, download course materials and work on other tasks. With this in mind, you will be expected to have access to and use the hardware and software described below.

Please note that due to the rapid rate of change in information technology, we anticipate that hardware and software competencies will be updated on a regular basis.

You are required to have use of a computer system with the following specifications and components:

• 2 GHz processor or faster
• 1GB RAM or greater
• 80 GB hard drive or larger
• Cable/DSL broadband connection or better
• 1024x768 resolution monitor or greater and supporting video card
• Sound card with speakers
• CD-ROM drive
• Inkjet or laser printer
• Computer microphone
• A web camera capable of video web conferencing and editing

You are required to have use of the following operating systems and applications*:

• Operating system:
  • Windows® XP or later OR
  • Mac OS 10.4 or later, with Windows XP or later Boot Camp partition (for selected courses)
• Microsoft Office 2007 (PC) or later, Office 2008 (MAC)
  
  • Office suite must include Microsoft Access.
  • Recommended is Microsoft Office Professional Academic 2010 (PC) or 2011 (MAC)

• Microsoft® Project (for selected courses)

• One of the following Internet browsers:
  • Microsoft® Internet Explorer 7.0 or later
  • Mozilla Firefox 3.5 or later
  • Google Chrome 7.0 or later
  • Apple Safari 5.0 or later

• Adobe® Reader 9.0 or later
• Adobe Flash plug-in 10.0 or later
• System configured to allow installation of browser plug-ins as required
• Local administrative privileges (for required software installations)
• Anti-virus program (updated regularly)
• E-mail account
• Broadband Internet access

The Disability Services Office recommends the following opportunities for computer accessibility in order to ensure that your computer's operating system is up-to-date with the most recent accessibility technology.

All students need access to a computer for success in their coursework. The operating systems on most computers already have some features that include these accessibility technologies:

Accessibility for Operating Systems

Both Microsoft and Apple provide additional accessibility guides, tutorials, and tips for use on your computer. Windows Vista^® includes built-in accessibility settings and programs that make it easier for computer users to see, hear and use their computers. Visit the Microsoft or Apple website for information beyond the documents provided here.

*Use of additional software is required for College of Information Systems & Technology students and faculty**:

*Updated software requirements may be available on your rEsource page.

**The following hardware is required for students and faculty in the Master of Science in Nursing/Family Nurse Practitioner and Post Masters Family Nurse Practitioner programs:

• Handheld computing device (iPhone or Android smartphone or iPad or Android tablet device)

Note: Due to the rapid rate of change in Information Technology, required hardware and software and technology skills are updated often.

If you need to purchase a computer, the University recommends a laptop for classroom use. You may be eligible for student discounts on hardware and software. More information is available at https://ecampus.phoenix.edu.

Note: The School of Advanced Studies requires Doctoral students to bring a laptop to residencies.

Access, Excel, Internet Explorer, Microsoft, PowerPoint, Visio and Visual Studio are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners in the United States and/or other countries.