Blended-learning enrollment option
If you are going to do up to half your coursework online, you are going to need to be well prepared with technology. You will need the right equipment and you will need to be comfortable using it.
You will need a powerful computer and fast, reliable Internet access. You will also need to keep your computer and its software in good working order.
Your Computer
We strongly recommend that you get a laptop computer. You are going to be studying and connecting to classmates and professors at home, in the office, in hotels if you are on the road, and here at Mitchell Hamline when you come to campus. Get a laptop, and get it set up to fit your work style, and you’ll have that same experience wherever you are.
Good news: Whether you prefer a Mac or a PC, you are good. Both are compatible with the online components of our programs. You’ll want a full-size laptop. You need a screen big enough to do more than one thing at a time—you might be watching a professor’s lecture, following a link from the professor, and typing notes simultaneously. See specifications below.
Off Campus
You will need a quiet, comfortable place to set up your computer for online interactions. You’ll need a webcam with a microphone (most laptops have this built in). Laptop speakers aren’t great. Get a good set of headphones or speakers.
On Campus
When you come to campus, antivirus software is required before you may access Mitchell Hamline’s wireless network. If you do not already have antivirus, you may download Microsoft Security Essentials for free.
Canvas
The platform for online coursework in our programs is Canvas. To learn more about Canvas, check out the Student Guide linked below. If any Canvas related issues arise, please consult the listed Canvas Support page for troubleshooting options.
Proctor U
The platform for remote proctoring of exams and other assessments is Meazure Learning (Proctor U). If any remote proctoring issues arise, please contact the listed support page for trouble-shooting options.
Technology Requirements
| Specification | PC Minimum Requirements | PC Recommended Requirements | Mac Minimum Requirements | Mac Recommended Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Windows 11 | Windows 11 | Mac OS Sonoma or higher | Mac OS Tahoe |
| CPU | Intel Core i5 quad-core processor (11th Generation) or AMD Ryzen 5000 series | Intel Core i5 quad-core processor (13/14th Generation) or AMD Ryzen 7000 series or later generations | M1 or newer | M3 or newer |
| RAM/Memory | 8 GB | 16 GB | 8 GB | 16 GB |
| Storage | 256 GB | 500 GB | 256 GB | 500 GB |
| Monitor/Display Resolution | 1366×768 | 1920×1080 | 1366×768 | 1920×1080 |
| Network Connectivity | 3 Mbps (3072 Kbps) upload and download speed (Hotspots discouraged for testing) | |||
| Webcam | 720p | 1080p (Full HD) | 720p | 1080p (Full HD) |
| Speakers | Built-in or external speakers are required (Headsets not allowed for exams) | |||
| Web Browsers | Current release of Chrome (recommended), Safari, Edge, Firefox. Guardian Browser (Meazure Learning) and Respondus LockDown Browser must be installed separately for exams when required. | |||
| Unsupported Devices | Chromebooks, tablets, and Linux devices are not supported and should not be used as a primary computer. Computers used for exams must be personally owned and have administrator access available. Employer-supplied devices are not supported. | |||
| Exams | Students may be required to install Meazure Learning (ProctorU) and Respondus LockDown Browser on their personal computer. During proctored exams: webcams must remain on, headphones and headsets are not permitted, only one monitor may be used, and all other applications must be closed. Exams may not be taken inside a virtual machine, through Apple Boot Camp, or with remote-access software (TeamViewer, AnyDesk, etc.) installed. Windows 10/11 in “S mode” or “SE” is not compatible with exam software. External monitors will not be permitted when using a laptop. | |||