Canvas Resource CenterSTUDENT SELF-HELP GUIDESStudent Self-Help GuidesPreparing for your online courseStudent: What are the technical/computer requirements to take an online course?

Student: What are the technical/computer requirements to take an online course?

You will learn about the technical specifications your computer should meet in order to fully participate in your online course in Canvas.

Operating System: Windows 7, 8, 10 or Mac OS X/X+

Processor: 2+ GHz

Memory: 4+ GB

Web browser: Chrome, or Firefox (use the current version)

Display: 1920x1080

Software: Microsoft Office 365 or similar (Office 365 is free for faculty and students)

Internet connection: FiOS/DSL/Cable or similar

E-mail: CSUF student email account

Sound card or built-in sound: required

Microphone: may be required for some courses or academic programs

Webcam: may be required for some courses or academic programs

Mobile devices

Many courses are set up to be very mobile friendly and others are not. Almost all of the features and tools in Canvas allow you to interact with the content and with other participants on a mobile device.

However, given that most discussions require well-thought-out and well-typed responses, it is not recommended that you use a mobile device with a small screen to post your responses to a discussion. Nevertheless, for reading/viewing of posts, a mobile device can be quite handy.

Read this guide to learn about the Canvas Student app which may improve your course experience when using a mobile device.

Technical Support

If you are in need of technical support, as a student, you should contact the:

IT Student Help Desk

Phone: 657-278-8888

Email: [email protected]

Walk-in: Student Genius Corner

Article Summary

You have now learned about the technical specifications your computer should meet in order to fully participate in your online course in Canvas.