HCC Online Technical Requirements

To successfully complete courses delivered by HCC Online, you will need a computer, software, and a reliable, continuous connection to the Internet, as well as basic technology skills.

Computer

Netbooks, tablets, and mobile devices may be used for some components of online courses, but they do not have the computing power of a normal laptop or desktop computer and a student should not expect to complete all coursework on these types of devices. A laptop or desktop computer is required.

Note: HCC Computer Application courses follow a PC based curriculum and do not provide Mac based instruction.

Minimum System Requirements

Hardware and Software	PC	MAC
Operating System	Windows 7	MAC OS 9.0
Memory	512 MB	512 MB
CPU	1.0 GHz or higher	Power MAC G3 or higher
Free Disk Space	10 MB or more	10 MB or more
Browser	FireFox, Internet Explorer, Chrome	FireFox, Chrome, Safari
Browser Settings	JavaScript enabled Popup blockers disabled Cookies enabled	JavaScript enabled Popup blockers disabled Cookies enabled
Productivity Software	MS Office or viewers	MS Office or viewers
Internet Connection	56 K modem (DSL recommended)	56 K modem (DSL recommended)
Other	Sound card and speakers (microphone and webcam recommended)	Sounds card and speakers (microphone and webcam recommended)

If you purchased a computer within the last three years, in all probability your computer meets these requirements. 

Software

HCC provides all enrolled students with free access to Microsoft Office 365. Many classes utilize Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Some courses require additional software as a Consumable Item added to the course cost and sent to the student in their bookstore order. Examples are: QuickBooks for Computerized Accounting, Adobe Lightroom for Photography courses, and Science Lab programs.

Internet Connection

You should always have a back-up plan to accommodate for Internet connection and technology issues.  Public libraries or community gathering or eating places often provide free wi-fi access.

Technology Skills

You should have these basic technology skills:

• Connect to the Internet

• Navigating the Internet, HCC Website, and Moodle classroom

• Install or update hardware and software

• Manage Plug-ins

  • Plug-ins are small applications that allow your Internet browser to display and/or access the latest tools used in web pages.

• Use Highland email

• Add attachments to emails

• Download a file

• Upload a file

• Use a discussion board

• Use the internet to research information 

• Cut, copy, and paste text and images

• Save and rename files

HCC provides technical support for our online students and classrooms, as well as Highland MyHCC and Email account accounts and HCC usernames and passwords. Access the IT Support website for contact information.