Basic Computer Equipment Needed
For successful coursework and student services access, Baptist University of Florida students must have access to reliable, up-to-date computer hardware, software, and internet service. Students are expected to use university technology systems including Canvas Learning Management System (LMS), OpenSIS student information system, Microsoft 365, university email, and other course-related or student-service platforms as required.
All courses, whether online or classroom-based, may include online components. Students are expected to access university email, use Canvas, access student records and services through OpenSIS, use Microsoft 365 applications, locate course information, complete and submit assignments, participate in online course activities, and complete exams or assessments as required.
Having the necessary computer equipment, software, internet access, and related accessories is the student’s responsibility.
Students should have access to a fast, reliable broadband internet connection.
|
Internet Use
|
Recommended Speed
|
|
General coursework
|
Minimum 25 Mbps download / 5 Mbps upload
|
|
Video conferencing, large file uploads, online exams, or regular online coursework
|
100 Mbps download / 10 Mbps upload or higher
|
Students may use a speed test service to verify their internet speed and connection quality. Mobile hotspots and tethered phone connections are not recommended as a primary internet connection and may not provide the reliability needed for online exams, video meetings, or assignment submissions.
BUF provides Wi-Fi coverage for most areas of the Graceville campus.
Students living in married housing are responsible for obtaining and maintaining their own internet service for their housing units.
Students should have access to a laptop or desktop computer capable of running a current, supported version of Microsoft Windows or macOS.
|
Component
|
Minimum Recommendation
|
Preferred Recommendation
|
|
Operating System
|
Current supported version of Windows or macOS
|
Windows 11 or current supported macOS
|
|
Memory
|
8 GB RAM
|
16 GB RAM
|
|
Storage
|
128 GB storage with at least 20 GB free space
|
256 GB storage or higher
|
|
Processor
|
Modern Intel, AMD, or Apple processor
|
Recent Intel, AMD, or Apple processor
|
|
Display
|
1280 x 720 resolution or higher
|
Higher resolution display
|
|
Camera/Microphone
|
Built-in or external webcam and microphone
|
Built-in or external HD webcam and microphone
|
|
Audio
|
Speakers or headphones
|
Headset or headphones with microphone
|
Chromebooks, tablets, iPads, smartphones, Linux devices, and computers running Windows in S mode are not recommended as a student’s primary device. These devices may work for some basic online activities but may not support all required coursework, software, file uploads, online exams, Microsoft 365 desktop applications, or proctored testing requirements.
Students should have access to the following software and services:
|
Requirement
|
Details
|
|
Operating System
|
Current supported version of Microsoft Windows or macOS
|
|
Microsoft 365
|
Microsoft 365 applications and university email are available to current students
|
|
University Platforms
|
Access to Canvas, OpenSIS, and other required university platforms
|
|
Web Browser
|
Current version of Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, or Safari
|
|
PDF Reader
|
Adobe Acrobat Reader or another PDF reader
|
|
Browser Settings
|
Required browser cookies and JavaScript enabled for university systems
|
Students should keep their operating system, browser, antivirus/security tools, and applications updated.
Windows in S mode may prevent students from installing required course applications, testing software, or Microsoft 365 desktop applications. Students should avoid purchasing a computer with Windows in S mode as their primary academic device unless they are prepared to switch it out of S mode.
Some courses may require online proctored testing for exams, midterms, or finals. Students are responsible for ensuring their computer, internet connection, webcam, microphone, and testing environment meet the technical requirements for the university’s required proctoring platform before the exam date.
Students should complete any required practice test, system check, or readiness check before taking a proctored exam.
|
Requirement
|
Student Responsibility
|
|
Computer
|
A supported Windows or macOS laptop or desktop computer
|
|
Operating System
|
A current, supported version of Windows or macOS
|
|
Webcam
|
Built-in or external webcam in working condition
|
|
Microphone
|
Built-in or external microphone in working condition
|
|
Internet
|
Reliable broadband internet connection
|
|
Browser
|
Current version of a supported web browser, such as Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Microsoft Edge
|
|
Software Installation
|
Ability to download, install, or run required proctoring software when needed
|
|
Permissions
|
Ability to allow camera, microphone, screen recording, or other permissions required by the proctoring platform
|
|
Testing Environment
|
Quiet, private, well-lit location suitable for taking an exam
|
The following devices or configurations may not be supported for online proctored testing:
- Chromebooks
- Tablets
- iPads
- Smartphones
- Linux devices
- Windows in S mode
- Virtual machines
- Remote desktop or remote access sessions
- Mobile hotspots or tethered phone connections as the primary internet connection
Students should not wait until the exam time to test their equipment. If a student’s device or internet connection does not meet the proctoring requirements, the student is responsible for making other arrangements before the exam.
Some academic programs or courses may require additional hardware, software, or equipment beyond the university’s general computer requirements.
Some music courses, including online applied music courses, may require additional hardware, software, or equipment beyond the university’s general computer requirements.
Online applied music students may be required to provide:
- A webcam or video camera capable of transmitting clear video
- An external USB microphone or equivalent audio setup capable of capturing high-quality sound
- Audio and video quality sufficient for the instructor to evaluate the student’s performance
Students taking applied music lessons that require recorded accompaniment must also provide a sound source or playback setup that allows both the student and instructor to hear the combined sound of the performer and accompaniment clearly.
Some online music courses may require additional equipment or software, such as:
- MIDI keyboard
- Music notation software
- Recording software
- Other course-specific technology
Required software and equipment will be identified by the course instructor or program.
Online applied piano students, other than piano principals, must have access during lessons either to:
- A well-tuned acoustic piano; or
- An electronic keyboard with 88 weighted keys, a sustain pedal, MIDI capabilities, and a suitable piano sound
Online piano principals must have access during lessons to a well-tuned acoustic piano.
The campus Library provides computer workstations for student use during regular operational hours. These computers include software suitable for most general coursework; however, some courses or academic programs may require specialized software, hardware, or accessories that may not be available on Library computers.
Library computer access is subject to availability. Workstations may be unavailable during:
- Scheduled classes
- Workshops
- Maintenance
- Testing
- High-use periods
- Other university activities
The following items are not provided:
- Headsets
- Microphones
- Webcams
- Video cameras
- External storage devices
- Other personal accessories
Students are responsible for providing any required personal equipment or accessories needed for their courses.
Students should not rely solely on Library computers as their primary means of completing coursework, online exams, video meetings, or assignments with strict deadlines.
BUF’s IT Department does not provide repair or technical support for student-owned computers or devices owned by other individuals. Students are responsible for maintaining their own computers, software, internet service, and accessories.
Course-related support is provided through the appropriate university academic support channels, including LMS support and faculty assistance as applicable.