Technology Requirements

Students should carefully consider the following technology requirements if they wish to complete coursework from home. It should also be noted, that iSchool labs can be accessed remotely if you need to use specialized software that you may not have on your personal computer. For information on accessing iSchool labs remotely, check out the "How to access iSchool lab computers remotely" knowledgebase article.

Requirements for Students in Residential Programs: Informatics, MLIS, Full-Time and Mid-Career MSIM, PhD

Residential students do not have specific technology requirements, although students using Mac, Linux or older versions of Windows may encounter difficulties in certain classes. On-site computer labs are provided to facilitate coursework when a personal computing environment is not sufficient.

Residential students who take online classes, classes that are hybrid in nature, or any class that makes heavy use of online technologies should be aware of the requirements for online students listed below.

Requirements for Online MLIS Students

These requirements are in place to ensure that we have a baseline set of capabilities through which we can effectively deliver remote instruction. Be advised that technology changes rapidly and specific requirements such as the operating system, software versions, and Internet connection type may change during your time in the program.

Computer

Online MLIS students are required to have access to a Windows-based PC and it is highly recommended that they own a laptop. While every attempt is made to select applications that are cross platform compatible, not all software utilized in iSchool classes has Mac or Linux equivalents. It is at the discretion of the instructor to allow alternative tools; however, the faculty member may not be familiar with the alternative you suggest or be able to properly grade an assignment if you use a different application.

Mac and Linux Users

Given the requirement to have "access" to a Windows-based PC, it is highly recommended that students with an Intel Mac purchase and install Parallels, VMWare Fusion (which iSchool students can request from iSchool IT), or use the free Boot Camp application from Apple and partition their Intel Mac with both an OS X and a Windows partition. Windows are currently not available on the new M1 Macs.

Linux users may also have to partition their machine with both a Linux and Windows partition to use select software in certain classes.

Students can obtain a free copy of Windows from the iSchool's Azure Dev Tools for Teaching site if needed.

Mobile Devices

While much of the iSchool coursework can be completed on a mobile device, there will be coursework that IS NOT compatible with iPads, other tablets and smartphones. All online students are expected to have access to a full featured laptop or desktop computer capable of running the Windows operating system.

Internet Access

It is essential that online students have access to broadband Internet. Good broadband Internet will provide a much better student experience than even the fastest computer. Check your connection speed using the Speedtest website. You can also check the quality of your connection by downloading and running the Speedtest Desktop app.

Administrator Access to Computer

Students must have the ability to install software and make changes to their computer configuration. Students may also be required to open some network ports blocked by firewalls or security software to enable certain functionality. Students are expected to keep their computers current and install the latest operating system security patches and service packs on a regular basis. Students are also expected to have an updated anti-virus product on their machines. The University of Washington provides Sophos Anti-virus to all students at no charge at the uWare Site.

Productivity Software

Productivity software, such as Microsoft Office, is available to UW students at no cost through the uWare Site. Other software such as Windows, Microsoft Access, Visio, and Visual Studio are available via free download from the iSchool's Azure Dev Tools for Teaching site or can be shipped for a nominal fee. All software can be obtained and installed just prior to beginning the program.

Summary of Requirements

Students should have:

  • access to a fully functional personal computer running the Windows operating system. The version of Windows should be the latest version or its predecessor. (See "Computer" above for Mac and Linux users)

  • access to a broadband connection to the Internet with a minimum of 1 megabit/second download speed and 256 kilobits/second upload speed

  • the ability to record and play back audio

  • a headset that includes earphones and a microphone. At a minimum, a set of headphones or ear buds is required to reduce feedback in synchronous meeting situations

  • a camera capable of broadcasting video for synchronous meetings and events

  • Microsoft Office or compatible document and presentation preparation software. For some courses a copy of Microsoft Access will also be required. You can download Microsoft Office via the uWare Site

  • PDF reader software, such as Adobe Reader or compatible equivalent

  • the most current version of Chrome or Mozilla Firefox. Other browsers work on most sites but we have found Chrome and Firefox to be the most reliable across the broadest range of applications.

  • the most current version of Adobe Flash Player

  • the ability to install and configure software on your computer (this option is recommended but not required).

These requirements were last approved by the MLIS Program committee on 4/11/2014 and last updated on 9/5/2018.