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
Minimum | Recommended | |
---|---|---|
Operating System |
Windows 10 MacOS 11 |
Windows 10 or 11 MacOS 11 or greater |
Processor | Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen 3 | Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 |
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) Mozilla Firefox (Current release) |
Google Chrome (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 |
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, DRS, the Libraries, Technology Services, as well as instructors.