Skip Navigation LinksTechnical Requirements

Northcentral University uses electronic communications. Learners must have e-mail access with the capability to send and receive attached files. Learners must also be able to navigate the World Wide Web.

NCU recommends the following hardware requirements for PC systems:

  • Pentium 300 MHz or faster processor
  • Minimum 32 MB RAM
  • Minimum 2 GB free hard disk space
  • CD-ROM drive
  • 28.8 Kbps or faster modem
  • Color monitor, keyboard, mouse

Computer Equipment

Computers and other peripheral equipment can be purchased through NCU’s Computer Purchase Program offered by Dell. Costs vary depending on the system components you select.

Learners will need to obtain the services of an Internet Service Provider (ISP) and an e-mail address. It is recommended that a local Internet Service Provider, in the area where the Learner or Faculty Mentor resides, be contacted who can provide technical assistance should it be needed.

NCU requires the following software applications for PC systems:

  • Microsoft Internet Explorer
  • Microsoft Word or Microsoft Office
  • Microsoft Outlook Express - e-mail (bundled with Internet Explorer)
  • High-quality antivirus software
    A virus is a program which can destroy information on you hard drive and/or external drive(s). The virus may just corrupt a single file or it may corrupt multiple files, including the system files needed to run your computer. Viruses can be transferred to your computer by using someone else’s file that you obtained, usually via a floppy disk, or as an email attachment. It is important to use a virus checker to detect viruses that may exist. Software such as Norton’s Anti-Virus program locates known viruses and warns the user of their existence. Since new viruses are always being created, it is important to update your list of known viruses regularly.

NCU has standardized on Rich Text Format (.rtf) and Postscript Document File (.pdf) for the information the University sends out. This assures the widest compatibility. NCU uses Microsoft Word, which normally has a .doc extender on files it creates. Microsoft Word provides direct readability for previous versions of Word and several other word processors. Adobe Acrobat Reader may be useful for accessing information on the Internet and is recommended.

Download the latest version of Microsoft Internet Explorer (free) at www.microsoft.com.

Download the latest version of Adobe Acrobat (free) at www.adobe.com/prodinex.acrobat/