Minimum System Requirements

As an online student at Academy of Art University, you will need a personal computer that meets the minimum system requirements to access our Learning Management System. Certain programs and tools may have additional requirements. Please check with the school department for any additional requirements.

Supported Internet Browsers

Your computer must have one of the following Internet browsers to successfully participate in our online classes. Make sure you have one of the following installed on your computer:

Browser*	Versions	MacOS	Windows
Mozilla Firefox	Latest Version	x	x
Google Chrome	Latest Version	x	x
Apple Safari	Latest Version	x
Microsoft Edge	Latest Version		x

* JavaScript must be enabled in your browser. Third party cookies must be allowed for certain tools to function.

Device and Operating Systems

Your computer must meet these minimum requirements:

MacOS	Operating System: Must be running a recent and supported version of MacOS. Apple typically supports the most recent OS and two previous versions.
Windows	Operating System: Must be running a recent and supported version of Microsoft Windows. https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/release-health/supported-versions-windows-client

Memory: minimum 8 GB (suggested 16 GB or more)
Storage: minimum 128 GB Hard Drive or access to expandable storage media (recommended 512 GB or more)

Hardware/Peripherals

In addition to a computer and an internet browser, you must have the following hardware and software to successfully participate in our online classes:

Peripherals: Monitor, keyboard, mouse, and speakers. Webcam with microphone for all online language classes and synchronous meetings.

Internet Access

ISP (Internet Service Provider): any service provider will suffice if it provides reliable access to the Internet of 3 Mbps (minimum). It is highly recommended that you have a connection capable of 10 Mbps or more. Although unlikely, please ensure your ISP does not enforce data caps which would prevent you from uploading multiple large files.

Other Applications/Services

Email: All Academy of Art students receive a free Microsoft 365 email account and access to Microsoft 365 web apps (including Microsoft Word).

Adobe Creative Cloud: All students have access to the full Adobe Creative Cloud suite of applications while actively enrolled in classes.

Anti-virus software: While participating in online classes, you may choose to share documents and files via email or in the online Discussions tool. You are expected to use your own updated anti-virus software. Anti-virus software can be downloaded for free or for a small charge from the provider of your choice.

Additional Software: Some classes require additional software or hardware which you may need to purchase, at additional cost. Some software or hardware may only be compatible with one operating system (MacOS or Microsoft Windows). Please read the class descriptions carefully.

FAQS

What kind of computer should I have (Mac or PC)? expand_more

Most online classes can be completed on a Mac or PC. Some online classes require computer software that is only available for one or the other. For a general guideline on choosing a platform, please refer to Computer System Requirements by School. Students should refer to their course syllabus prior to purchasing a new computer.

Can I contact an instructor if I need help? expand_more

Instructors are accessible via email, phone, or through the online discussion forum.

Will I be able to interact with my classmates? expand_more

Students are able to interact with their classmates and instructors. Online classes encourage communication through discussion, video conferencing, multimedia feedback, and small class sizes. Students participate in flexible discussions allowing them to ask questions and receive constructive feedback.

Online Help Desk

If you experience technical problems with an online course, you may contact our support team. Our team has a wealth of knowledge and can also guide users to additional Academy support resources.

Support is available 8:00 AM through Midnight, Pacific Time, seven days a week (excluding University holidays).

Contact the Help Desk at:
Phone: 1-888-431-ARTS (2787) | 415-618-3545
Email: online@academyart.edu
Online: helpdesk.academyart.edu/home