College of NursingTechnology Requirements

Technology Requirements

Network ID, MyWSU, WSU ID and email set up

Refer to the WSU Admissions website for instructions.

Recommended Computer Hardware

These recommendations for hardware and software establish a baseline requirement for participation in College of Nursing courses. You can expect to have higher performance and a more satisfying online experience with equipment that exceeds, not merely meets, these baseline specifications. Certain courses may require additional capability and/or specific software programs. Information about these specific requirements is available in the course syllabus.

Operating System

The Microsoft Windows Operating System is the standard system used for all Nursing courses. Students must have Microsoft Windows 11 or later, and be able to install Windows-based software.

NOTE

You may use Apple or other operating systems, provided that you can install and run Windows programs “virtually” and transfer files to others in Windows formats.

The following details basic minimums generally considered necessary to run the software described. The first and foremost rule when contemplating a computer purchase is The software determines the hardware.

  • Processor: minimum processing power comparable to that of a Intel Core i5-4xxx 2.5 GHz processor.
  • Memory: at least 8 Gigabytes.
  • Hard Drive: min 256 Gigabytes.
  • Display: Must support resolution of 1280×800 or higher.
  • Microphone and speakers. Preferred: USB headset with earphones and microphone. Alternative: echo-cancelling microphone/speaker system.
  • Webcam if not built into laptop.
  • USB ports: At least two USB ports.
  • Networking: WiFi wireless connectivity required.

Internet Connectivity

WSU recommends that you have an Internet connection capable of 1.5 Mbps or better for live broadcasts and streaming live video, and to reduce network congestion and minimize audio/video quality problems. You can check your Internet bandwidth and firewall settings with the WSU Global Campus Connection speed and firewall test.

NOTE

You must ensure that popup blockers are configured to allow and accept popups from http://*.wsu.edu – or disabled entirely while using WSU online services.

Likewise, you must configure your system to accept cookies from WSU sites.
Javascript must be enabled for WSU sites.

Software

Anti-virus Software—It is imperative that you have installed and regularly update anti-virus software on your computer. The minimum requirement is Microsoft Security Essentials, available at no cost from Microsoft. Most experts recommend other commercial antivirus products. Well-known brands include TrendNet, and AVG.

NOTE

Office 365 is provided with your WSU account.
Other Microsoft products are available to students through ASWSU Global / CougTech at substantial discounts.

Other General Software

  • Microsoft Office
    You will need the ability to use Microsoft Office PowerPoint, Word, and Excel.
  • Adobe Acrobat Reader

FAQs

Visit the WSU Knowledge Base

Questions?

Visit the WSU College of Nursing support page