Computer Requirements

Prospective students should ensure that their computer satisfies the following MINIMAL requirements before enrolling in an online degree program.   However keep in mind that a higher end computer with a faster processor, bigger hard drive, and more random access memory (RAM), used in conjunction with cable or DSL internet access service will result in a much faster and more dynamic navigating experience

Hardware and Software MINIMAL Requirements

  • Pentium class PC with 400 MHz or higher processor with at least 256 MB RAM – Windows 98SE, Windows2000, Windows XP (SP1 & SP2) [certain versions of Windows may require higher minimum memory] or MAC G3 or higher processor - Mac OS 8.6, OS 9, OS X 10.1 or better, 256MB Ram.
  • Internet Service with any local service provider, telephone based or cable service where available; 56k Internet connection or faster (DSL/Cable connectivity strongly recommended)
  • Microsoft Word Software
  • Acrobat Reader (download latest version)
  • Additional software requirements for individual courses, if any, are usually set by the faculty teaching the online course.  Please check with your
    faculty  following registration.

Web Browser Requirements

  • Web browser that supports tables, frames, Java and Javascript. 
  • Internet Explorer version 6.0 (SP1 & SP2) or higher is recommended.
  • Internet Explorer 7 is only certified on Windows XP.
  • Firefox 1.0 or higher,  Mozilla 1.5, 1.7 or higher.
  • Mac Safari 1.2, 1.3.1 or higher,  Firefox 1.0x or higher, Mozilla 1.5, 1.7 or higher.  IE for Mac, AOL, and Netscape Navigator is not recommended.
  • For a complete up-to-date listing, go to:   http://www2.blackboard.com/tuneup/viewpage?name=tuneup_browsers_vista42_ce62

WebCT Courseware Tools

  • Most of our online courses are conducted using WebCT courseware tools.  Please click this WebCT Browser Tune-up to ensure that your browser settings are optimized for a WebCT based course BEFORE logging onto WebCT.
  • For all browsers, JavaScript must be enabled for WebCT to work.
  • To use Chat and Whiteboard in WebCT, Java must also be enabled.
  • To use ticket-based authentication in WebCT, browsers must allow cookies.

Note: If you have additional questions about meeting the adequate computer requirements for participation in our online degree program, please contact the Office of Online Learning and Services at (718) 990-2786 or distancelearning@stjohns.edu AFTER you have received an admissions notification via email and/or regular mail.