The minimums in this document are meant as a baseline for all students. Some degree programs may have requirements that exceed what is identified below. Such information may be communicated to students through program orientations or other communication methods. You can also contact your program office to ask about specific requirements.
Note: If you are a student with a disability, who uses assistive technology, please contact Disability Resource Services (DRS), with any questions regarding recommendations or requirements at 608.246.6716 or drstransition@madisoncollege.edu
| Tech Specs | Minimum | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Operating System |
Windows 10* MacOS 12 |
Windows 10 or 11* MacOS 12 or greater |
| Processor |
Intel Core i3, AMD Ryzen 3** Apple M1 |
Intel Core i5, AMD Ryzen 5** Apple M1 or greater |
| Memory | 8 GB of RAM | 16 GB of RAM |
| Internet Connection | Broadband (high-speed) internet with a consistent minimum speed of 3 Mbps | Broadband (high-speed) internet with a consistent minimum speed of 5 Mbps |
| Internet Browser |
Google Chrome (Current release) Microsoft Edge (Current release) Mozilla Firefox (Current release) |
Google Chrome (Current release) Microsoft Edge (Current release) Mozilla Firefox (Current release) |
| Additional Software |
|
| Additional Hardware |
Note: Most webcams have an integrated microphone. Laptops with built-in webcams are acceptable. |
| Blackboard Learning Management System |
*Windows 10 is End of Life on Oct 14, 2025 and will no longer receive security updates after that time, leaving it vulnerable to malware and viruses.
**If you are purchasing a device ensure it is 8th generation or newer Intel, or 3rd generation or newer AMD Ryzen. This is required for Windows 11 compatibility going forward.
Blackboard is designed for computer-based Windows and Macintosh operating systems. It does not support Linux.
Mobile devices can supplement your learning experiences, but because full Blackboard functionality is not available on mobile devices, you cannot rely solely on them to successfully complete courses. All functionality is not available for a Chromebook for some courses so you cannot rely solely on a Chromebook, either, for completing coursework.
Microsoft Office 365 is available for current Madison College students, faculty and staff at no cost through our college agreement with Microsoft. For more information: https://libguides.madisoncollege.edu/technology/software/office365
Zero client, thin client, VDI, or cloud computers are available in some campus locations. They look like a typical monitor, keyboard and mouse, but there is no tower or mini-PC attached. You can also access your virtual desktop from off-campus. Off-campus use first requires the setup of multi-factor authentication. For more information:
Horizon VMware information https://libguides.madisoncollege.edu/technology/virtual
Multi-factor authentication information https://libguides.madisoncollege.edu/technology/mfa
A cross-departmental team contributed to identifying minimum and recommended technical standards for students.
Contributors to this work included members of CETL, the Libraries, Technology Services, as well as instructors.