University of Cincinnati

Technical Requirements


To participate in online programs students will need a computer system with current specifications.  Students are encouraged to visit their distance learning program information/website for recommended system requirements as hardware and software requirements vary by program.  The Blackboard Support website at http://blackboard.uc.edu/support/ also provides additional assistance regarding system requirements.

In general, technical requirements include the following. 

Minimum Hardware (PC)

  • 400 MHz Pentium III Processor computer
  • 128 MB RAM
  • 2 GB free hard drive space
  • 10X CD-ROM drive
  • Internet access (56 Kbps modem)
  • Color monitor
  • Sound card with speakers

Highly Recommended Hardware (PC)

  • 1.0GHz Pentium IV Processor computer
  • 256 MB RAM
  • 4 GB free hard drive space
  • 24X CD-ROM drive
  • Broadband Internet access (Cable Modem/DSL)
  • Color monitor
  • Sound card with speakers
  • Access to a printer

Minimum Software

  • Windows 2000 or greater (PC)
  • MS Office 2000 or greater (including Word and Excel)
  • Access to the Internet
  • E-mail
  • Internet Explorer 6.x (PC)/5.x (Mac) preferred, Netscape 7.x, Firefox, or Safari (for Mac users)

Mac System Requirements

  • 400 MHz iMac (minimum), 1 GHz preferred
  • 128 MB RAM (minimum), 256 MB preferred
  • 2GB free disk space (minimum)
  • 24X CD-ROM drive
  • Internet access (56 Kbps modem); broadband Internet access preferred